Nottinghamshire Masonic Bowling Association.

During 2009 the Association took part in the Inter-provincial "Sidney Brown" trophy unfortunately without success. However on a brighter note the President's tour to Cheltenham was undoubtedly successful, being accompanied by some 35 others, both ladies and gentlemen including the PPGM and his lady, the DPGM and his lady, and the Immediate Past Master of the County EBA and his lady. Over the weekend Friday's match captained by IPP W. Bro. Keith Buckley was played against Cheltenham Spa BC, Saturday's match captained by the Association Secretary W. Bro. Derek Oakley was against Fairford, Sunday's match captained by W. Bro. Christopher Bromley was against Cheltenham Waddon BC, and Monday's match captained by Past President W. Bro. Dennis Dring was against the Cotswold BC.

The party's travelled by car enabling couples and groups to arrange their own agenda when having a "rest day" although it was unfortunate that one party who returned by "the Fosse Way" encountered a mobile speed camera and are now able to recommend the Lincolnshire Police speed awareness course. Other than that an enjoyable time was had by all.

Of the competitions staged, the Seaton trophy was won by W. Bro. G G Beastall and W. Bro. D Townsend, the Hargrove trophy was won by Bro. Danny Divine and W. Bro. Chris Bromley representing Vernon Lodge No. 1802, the runners up being W. Bro. John Broadley and W. Bro. Glyn Tabreham representing North Notts Installed Masters Lodge No. 3595.

In May 2009 the Association annual dinner was hosted by President W. Bro. Terry Manifold, at which the PGM Rt. W. Bro. RK Wilson and his lady were present along with some 60 or so other members and guests.

Although Bowls is seen to be a game played by older people, the county under 25’s consists of youngsters not only in their "teens" but also as young as 12 years of age! It's also a sport where ladies and gents are able to play without advantage or disadvantage either with or against each other.

The Association is pleased to invite new members to apply to join, details of which can be obtained from the Secretary Derek Oakley, telephone number 0115 937 4296 or see our yearbook entry

Christopher Bromley.