Latest News

Lightning Strikes Again In Denny Cup Triumph 

On Saturday 13th April 2024, the 2023/24 season got even better as Spalding Lightning lifted the Denny Cup trophy for the second time in three seasons. The Denny Cup is considered to be the top inter-club competition and the final against Torquay United had some of the country’s best players on show. 

Spalding Lightning started strongly and soon built a significant lead, mainly thanks to the rinks skipped by Jordan Philpott and Dominic McVittie who raced into 20-0 and 13-1 leads against England stars, Sam Tolchard and Jamie Walker respectively. Spalding Lightning were as many as 30 shots ahead and whilst Torquay United showed their battling qualities to reduce the deficit to 17 shots at one stage, the lead proved too much as Spalding Lightning won by 27 shots (92-65) and won the Denny Cup for the second time. 

Thank you to all of our travelling supporters who made the trip to Nottingham to watch the final and to our kit sponsors, Bridgestone Tyres and Roythornes Solicitors. Congratulations to everyone involved – what an amazing season for the club! 

Rink Scores 

Dan Mills, Ollie Jeapes, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Won 26-14

Lewis Parnell, Martin Simpson, Martin Spencer and Dominic McVittie – Won 29-17 

Kevin Ekins, Nick Wilkie, Simon Lilley and Jordan Philpott – Won 22-12 

Stephen Harris, Brian Martin, Ean Morton and Tristan Morton – Lost 15-22 

Second National Triples Win For Ruby, Chelsea and Annie 

Spalding Lightning continued their impressive run at the national championships at Nottingham as they added the ladies national triples title to the trophy cabinet. Ruby Hill, Chelsea Spencer and Annie Dunham qualified for the event and after winning the title in 2021 and following it up with the British Isles title in 2022, they would have been considered as one of the favourites. 

In the last 16, Ruby, Chelsea and Annie had a relatively comfortable 19-7 win against a team from Egham and followed it up with a 19-16 win against Hartlepool who had won the national fours title only the week before. In the semi-final, Ruby, Chelsea and Annie had to battle hard against a team from the host club of Nottingham. At one stage, they found themselves 12-2 behind and went into the last end two shots adrift. The Spalding girls held their nerve to pick up three shots, win the match 19-18 and booked their place in the final where they would face a team from Lakenheath skipped by England international Anna Chalk and also included former Spalding member Lauren Finbow. The match was streamed on EIBA TV and Ruby , Chelsea and Annie started well by picking up seven shots on the first end which would have relaxed any early nerves. Although the Lakenheath team contributed to a high quality final, the Spalding girls proved two strong as they won the final, 26-16 and lifted the national ladies triples title for the second time. They will also represent England at the British Isles Championships next season. 

Congratulations to you all – enjoy your celebrations! 

Trudy Bates Win For Spalding Ladies 

On Thursday 11th April 2024, the ladies from Spalding Indoor Bowls Club travelled to Sleaford to play the Trudy Bates final after they won the county south division this season. Their opposition were Lincoln who won the north division. 

Spalding started slowly as they found themselves 17 shots behind at five ends but they battled hard and by the halfway stage, the match was level. This continued for the rest of the match and Spalding were two shots in front with one rink left to finish. Betty Deaton and her rink kept their cool as they consolidated to drop one shot which meant that Spalding won the match 72-71 and lifted the Trudy Bates trophy for the second consecutive season. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Sue Jackson, Sue Slayven, Trish Stafford and Maggie Wheatley – Won 26-9 

Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley, Petrine Ault and Betty Deaton – Won 25-17 

Carole Nunney, Hazel Tokley, Mandy Parkins and Julie Hicks – Lost 13-22 

Jan Sinclair, Anita Phillips, Sandra Hammond and Maisie Belding – Lost 8-23 

Impressive Season Double For Dominic 

On Sunday 7th and Monday 8th April 2024, Dominic McVittie added to his already impressive season by winning the men’s national singles title at Nottingham IBC. 

In the last 16, Dominic beat David Holmes from Folkestone 21-7 and followed it up with a 21-14 win against former world top 16 player Jamie Chestney from Ilminster. Dominic booked his place in the final by beating fellow England international Martin Heitzman from Falaise 21-11. His opponent in the final was another England international, Paul Hartley from South Shields. 

In the final, Dominic raced into an 11-0 lead and continued his impressive form as he closed out a comfortable 21-12 win and lifted the men’s national singles trophy for the first time. Dominic added this title to the champion of champions singles title that he won in February and will be England’s representative at both the British Isles and World Championships next season. 

Congratulations Dominic – what a season! 

Friendly Result 

On Sunday 7th April 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club travelled to Lincoln for their final fixture of the season. The match was closely contested and Spalding were only one shot (81-80) ahead at 15 ends before Spalding won 110-93. Top winning rink was skipped by Dee Brinkman, with Tony Schorah and Max Butters. Spalding finished the season winning 11 of their 13 friendly fixtures. Well done to everyone involved! 

Ladies County Semi-Finals 

On Sunday 7th April 2024, Sleaford Indoor Bowls Club hosted the ladies county semi-finals. Spalding were well represented and will contest all four finals which will take place at Louth on Saturday 20th April 2024. 

Chelsea Spencer will be part of the singles final and will be joined by Ruby Hill in the pairs. Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault and Karen Martin will aim to win the triples and Carole Nunney, Jan Sinclair, Maisie Belding and Julie Hicks are in the fours final. 

Well done and good luck to you all at county finals! 

Spalding Lightning Under 30 Double Triples Retain National Title 

On Saturday 6th April 2024, Spalding Lightning retained their national title in the under 30s double triples event. The national finals were held at Nottingham IBC and Spalding Lightning’s opponents in the semi-final were Wellingborough. A highly contested match saw the defending champions always in front and mainly thanks to a 23-11 rink win for Jordan Philpott’s rink, Spalding Lightning booked their place in the final with a 37-31 win. Exonia beat Ipswich 38-18 in the other semi-final which set up a repeat match of last season’s national semi-final between Spalding Lightning and Exonia. 

In a similar fashion to the semi-final, Spalding Lightning started the stronger of the two teams and although Exonia played their part in a high quality final, Spalding Lightning closed out the match and won 38-26. Spalding Lightning retained the title and lifted the trophy on back-to-back occasions. It was extra special for Chelsea Spencer in her final year at under 30s level. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Semi-Final -v- Wellingborough 

Dan Mills, Stephen Harris and Jordan Philpott – Won 23-11 

Ollie Jeapes, Ruby Hill and Chelsea Spencer – Lost 14-20 

Final -v- Exonia 

Dan Mills, Stephen Harris and Jordan Philpott – Won 21-10

Ollie Jeapes, Ruby Hill and Chelsea Spencer – Won 17-16 

Mixed County League Final Result 

On Saturday 6th April 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club travelled to Sleaford IBC to play in the mixed county league final after they won the south division. Their opposition in the final was Dunholme who won the north division. Spalding started slowly, were always chasing and never recovered. At ten ends, Dunholme led by seven shots (34-41) and although Spalding battled hard, Dunholme came out on top by five shots (74-79). Winning on two rinks, top winning rink was skipped by Graham Wright, with Tony Westland, Anita Phillips and Maggie Wheatley who won 23-11. Congratulations to Dunholme on their successful season in the mixed league! 

Rink Scores 

Tony Westland, Anita Phillips, Maggie Wheatley and Graham Wright – Won 23-11 

Carole Nunney, George Deaton, Betty Deaton and David Nunney – Won 24-22 

Jan Sinclair, Tim Rogers, Petrine Ault and Mick Jennings – Lost 13-21 

Ann Newbury, Maisie Belding, Mike Taylor and Anthony Cronin – Lost 14-25 

Over 60s County League Result 

On Thursday 4th April 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club finished the season strongly in the men’s over 60s county league with a home win against Grantham. Spalding won on all rinks and the aggregate by 42 shots (100-58). Top winning rink was skipped by Graham Wright, with Mick Dolton, Paul Turner and Ian Stafford who won 29-12. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Mick Dolton, Paul Turner, Ian Stafford and Graham Wright – Won 29-12 

Martyn Stanley, Mike Taylor, Robin Roffe and Ian Harwood – Won 25-12 

Bill Hodges, Roger Billingsley, Terry Windsor and Tim Rogers – Won 24-14

Tony Westland, Dave Amess, Gavin Staite and David Nunney – Won 23-13

Top Club National Glory For Spalding Lightning 

On Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th March 2024, Spalding Lightning won the national mixed top club title for the third time in the club’s history at the national championships currently being held at Nottingham IBC. 

In the semi-final on Saturday, Spalding Lightning played Hartlepool in a match that was always destined to go down to the wire. Spalding Lightning started the stronger of the two teams as they won both singles which meant that they needed one win from the pairs, triples and fours plus the overall aggregate to win the match. With Hartlepool up in the pairs and triples and Spalding Lightning up in the fours, the match had an exciting finish with the overall aggregate score as close a two shots towards the end. With the pairs going to Hartlepool and the triples and fours playing their last end, Spalding Lightning were five shots ahead. Spalding Lightning consolidated well by picking up a three in the triples and dropping a two in the fours to win the aggregate by six shots (84-78) and booked their place in the final where they would play a strong Swale team who met in the semi-final last season. 

The final was another high quality match but similarly to the semi-final, Spalding Lightning were fast out of the blocks with wins in both singles. Although the ladies singles was close which gave Swale a glimmer of hope, when Chelsea Spencer held her nerve to win 21-18, there was only ever likely to be one winner as when the singles were finished, Spalding Lightning were dominant in the fours, ahead in a close pairs match and narrowly behind in the triples. Spalding Lightning ended up winning the final 14-2 on match points, winning on all disciplines apart from the triples who fought back well to earn themselves a draw. 

Spalding Lightning went one better after losing in the final last season and won the title for the third time. The only club to have won the title on more occasions are Swale who have lifted the trophy four times. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores – Semi-Final -v- Hartlepool 

Ladies Singles – Chelsea Spencer – Won 21-12

Men’s Singles – Stephen Harris – Won 21-10

Pairs – Annie Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Lost 12-22

Triples – Jean Patterson, Graham Smith and Jordan Philpott – Lost 11-23

Fours – Ruby Hill, Louise Harris, Martin Spencer and Mathew Orrey – Won 19-11 

Rink Scores – Final -v- Swale 

Ladies Singles – Chelsea Spencer – Won 21-18

Men’s Singles – Stephen Harris – Won 21-8

Pairs – Annie Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Won 16-12 

Triples – Jean Patterson, Graham Smith and Jordan Philpott – Drew 15-15 

Fours – Ruby Hill, Louise Harris, Martin Spencer and Mathew Orrey – Won 27-11 

National Under 18 Glory For Team Lincolnshire 

On Sunday 24th March 2024, Spalding’s Jack Wells and Ollie Jeapes were part of a successful Lincolnshire team who won the national under 18 double triples event, also held at the national championships at Nottingham IBC. Jack and Ollie were lead and two in the same rink skipped by Owen Aspinall from Stamford. 

Lincolnshire booked their place at the national finals with wins against Leicestershire and Yorkshire earlier in the season and their semi-final opponents were Hampshire. Lincolnshire performed exceptionally well as they won 37-29 and Jack and Ollie were part of a rink who had an impressive 23-5 rink win. Their opposition in the final were Suffolk who beat Somerset in the semi-final. A strong start in the final saw Lincolnshire take control as they won comfortably 41-24. Jack and Ollie were part of a rink who had another good win, this time against under 25 international Charlie Beeton, 20-10. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Friendly Result 

On Sunday 24th March 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club enjoyed a friendly fixture against Grantham who played well and beat Spalding 95-127. This is the first time Spalding have lost a friendly match since November 2023. Spalding’s top winning rink was skipped by Maisie Belding, with Jan Sinclair and Grace Schorah.

Well played to Grantham and all the best for the rest of the season! 

County Semi-Finals Day 

On Sunday 17th March 2024, Louth & District Indoor Bowls Club hosted the Lincolnshire county semi-finals day. Spalding were well represented and were successful in a number of disciplines. In the first session of the day, Brian Martin, Stephen Harris and Dominic McVittie booked their place in the county triples final with a 24-8 win against Boston’s Ian Clark, Alex Tomlin and Martin Tomlin. Their opposition in the final will be Rod West, Nathan Dunnington and Jonathan West from Boston. Dominic continued his excellent run of form by beating Richard Ashton from Lincoln in the county singles semi-final, 21-10 and will play Ollie Jeapes from Stamford in the final. The county sets singles final will be an all Spalding affair as Dominic will play Jordan Philpott. In the semi-final, they beat Chris Ballard from Stamford and Richard Ashton from Lincoln respectively, both in straight sets. Stephen Harris and Graham Smith progressed to the county pairs final with a 21-19 win against Richard Feetham and Colin Barks from Dunholme. Their opposition is unknown as the semi-final between Spalding’s Simon Lilley and Jordan Philpott and Lincoln’s Danny Brown and Billy Jackson is due to be played at a later date. Due to Dominic being in four semi-finals, the all Spalding match in the mixed pairs between Jean Patterson and Dominic McVittie and Chelsea and Martin Spencer is due to be played on Friday evening. 

Well done and good luck to everyone! 

Men’s International Series 

Between Thursday 14th and Saturday 16th March 2024, Stephen Harris, Graham Smith and Dominic McVittie were part of the men’s England team at the British Isles International Series which was held at Falcon Indoor Bowls Club in Essex. Stephen was selected at lead in a rink with Martin Puckett, Les Gillett and Greg Harlow, Graham was number two in a rink skipped by Robert Paxton, with Paul Hartley and Joe Dawson at lead and three respectively and Dominic was selected for the first time at number three in a rink with Shaun Jones, Andrew Walters and Jamie Walker. 

Scotland were defending champions so England were hoping to regain the Hilton Trophy in front of their home crowd. England started the series well with comfortable wins against Ireland (151-105) and Wales (129-75) and whilst Scotland also won their first two games, this set up a series decider between England and Scotland on Saturday. 

England started the better of the two teams and although Scotland battled hard to reduce the deficit to eight shots at one stage, England proved too strong as they won 120-93. England regained the Hilton Trophy and won the series for the 8th time in nine years. Stephen’s rink came away with one win (23-18, 15-17, 17-20), Graham’s rink the same (17-26, 16-14, 14-20) but it was an impressive first series for Dominic as his rink came away with three wins (37-20, 27-11, 29-18). Dominic’s performances didn’t go unnoticed and his first series was made extra special as he was presented with both the EIBA and BIIBC Men’s Player of the Series. 

Congratulations to Stephen, Graham, Dominic and the rest of Team England! 

Mixed County League Result 

On Saturday 16th March 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club hosted Skegness in their final fixture of the mixed county league. Spalding won on three rinks as they won by 14 shots, 79-65 and won 12-2 on match points. Top winning rink was skipped by Graham Jackson, with Gill Haydon, Dave Overton and Trish Stafford who won 21-13. This win means that Spalding have won the county south division and will play in the county final on Saturday 6th April 2024 at Sleaford. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores

G. Haydon, D. Overton, P. Stafford and G. Jackson – Won 21-13 

T. Westland, A. Phillips, M. Wheatley and G. Wright – Won 21-14 

A. Newbury, S. Slayven, M. Taylor and A. Cronin – Won 19-16 

J. Collins, S. Jackson, P. Everett and P. Turner – Lost 18-22 

Men’s County League Result 

On Saturday 16th March 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club travelled to play Boston “A” in their final fixture of the season. Although three rinks were closely contested, Boston won on three rinks as they won 94-74 (12-2). Spalding did manage one winning rink which was skipped by Brian Martin, with Max Butters, George Almey and Ean Morton who won 15-14. With all games now played, Spalding are currently top of the county south division but Stamford “A” need eight points from their final game next weekend to win the league. 

Well played to Boston and all the best for the rest of the season! 

Rink Scores 

Max Butters, George Almey, Ean Morton and Brian Martin – Won 15-14 

Nathan Puttrell, Aiden Brickles, Ian Stafford and Kevin Ekins – Lost 24-25 

Mick Dolton, Robin Roffe, Chris Warboys and Dan Mills – Lost 24-26 

Eric Wakefield, Gavin Staite, Nick Wilkie and Martin Simpson – Lost 11-29 

Presidents Charity Match

On Tuesday 12th March 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club held their Presidents match. Club Presidents Kevin Ekins and Julie Hicks invited 48 players to play in this annual charity fundraising match and afternoon tea. 

The afternoon started with a “spider” which was won by Jenny Horner. This was followed by a fiercely contested ladies v men match. There were a couple of twists during the game as on end five, players had to deliver a bowl with their opposite hand which had a disastrous effect on all rinks and on end ten, everyone had to play with other bowls from their team. This turned out to be interesting as most played better than with their own. Best rink for the ladies was Gill Haydon, Paula Lawson, Sue Cooper and Hazel Tokley and the mens were David Murray, John Rawding, Graham Jackson and Alan Tokley. 

Afternoon tea was served by Graham Hicks, with the help of his daughter in law and granddaughter. Delicious food, especially the homemade items from the ladies of the club. 

Thank you and well done to everyone for supporting our club charities of the year, The Tulip Suite at Johnson Hospital and Lincolnshire Air Ambulance. An enjoyable afternoon had by all and an impressive £323.60 raised for charity. 

Ladies International Series and British Isles Championships 

Between Friday 8th and Sunday 10th March 2024, Ruby Hill, Annie Dunham and Chelsea Spencer were part of the ladies England team in the British Isles International Series which was held at Falcon Indoor Bowls Club in Essex. Ruby and Annie were part of the same rink at lead and skip respectively with Kylie Jenkins and captain Sandy Hazell whilst Chelsea skipped her own rink with Cassidy Hampton, Chloe Brett and Anna Noble. 

England were defending champions after winning the series in Scotland last season and started the series with wins against Ireland, 162-67 and Wales, 136-83. Chelsea’s rink enjoyed two rink wins (24-12 and 23-10) whilst Annie’s rink won one and drew one (19-15 and 19-19). As Scotland also comfortably beat Ireland and Wales, this set up the the always likely series decider between England and Scotland on Sunday afternoon. 

Unfortunately, Scotland proved too strong on the day and led throughout the match before winning 115-91 and regaining the Clara Johns Trophy. 

After the international series, Ruby was England’s representative in the ladies under 25 singles in the British Isles Championships after winning the national title earlier in the year. Unfortunately, Ruby lost a close game (21-17) against eventual winner, Sophie McGrouther from Scotland. 

Men’s County League Result 

On Saturday 9th March 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club beat Stamford “A” at home in the penultimate fixture of the men‘s county league south division. In a match where all rinks could have gone either way, the home team won by ten shots (79-69) and won on three rinks which meant that they also won 12-2 on match points. Top winning rink was skipped by Simon Lilley, with Nathan Puttrell, Tim Rogers and David Nunney who won 25-19. This win puts the south division in Spalding’s hands as they replace Stamford “A” at the top of the table and are currently six points clear. If Stamford “A” secure maximum points at home against Boston “B”, Spalding will need nine points from their final match away against Boston “A”. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Nathan Puttrell, Tim Rogers, David Nunney and Simon Lilley – Won 25-19 

Eric Wakefield, Ian Stafford, Nick Wilkie and Martin Simpson – Won 15-10 

Tony Westland, Oliver Stanley, Anthony Cronin and Brian Martin – Won 21-17 

Mick Dolton, Jack Wells, Ean Morton and Dan Mills – Lost 18-23 

Trudy Bates Result 

On Thursday 7th March 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club hosted Skegness in the Trudy Bates. The home team and defending champions proved too strong on the day and won by 14 shots (80-66) and secured 12 match points. Although three of the rinks were closely contested, the main damage for Spalding was done by the rink skipped by Maisie Belding, with Jan Sinclair, Anita Phillips and Carly Morris who won 27-15. This win puts Spalding in a great position and are certainly favourites to book their place in the final from the south division. It is not mathematically impossible for Boston to top the table but they will need to rely on Grantham taking maximum points at Spalding next week and Boston to collect maximum points from their two remaining fixtures. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Jan Sinclair, Anita Phillips, Carly Morris and Maisie Belding – Won 27-15 

Sheila Chamberlain, Carole Nunney, Mandy Parkins and Julie Hicks – Won 20-15 

Jean Patterson, Sue Slayven, Trish Stafford and Maggie Wheatley – Won 17-16 

Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley, Petrine Ault and Betty Deaton – Lost 16-20 

Men’s Over 60s County League Result 

On Thursday 7th March 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s tough season in the men’s over 60s county league continued with an away defeat against Boston “B”. It was a closely contested match that the home side won by eight shots (78-70) and 10-4 on match points. Spalding did manage two winning rinks but their top winning rink was skipped by Chris Warboys, with Mick Dolton, Dave Amess and Gavin Staite who won 26-9. Well played to Boston and all the best for the rest of the season! 

Rink Scores 

Mick Dolton, Dave Amess, Gavin Staite and Chris Warboys – Won 26-9 

Mike Taylor, Robin Roffe, Ian Harwood and David Nunney – Won 22-17 

Tony Westland, Neil Strickson, Ian Stafford and Terry Windsor – Lost 12-21 

Martyn Stanley, Alan Tokley, Graham Hicks and Mick Jennings – Lost 10-31 

Egham Trophy Result 

On Sunday 3rd March 2024, Spalding Lightning lost in the semi-final of the Egham Trophy against Wellingborough. In a match played at Melton Mowbray, Spalding Lightning were hoping to go a step future after they lost at the same stage last season but Wellingborough started the better of the two teams and quickly opened up a 25 shot lead. Although Spalding Lightning battled hard to get back to within eight shots but Wellingborough fought off any potential comeback as they won by 14 shots (84-70). Well played to Wellingborough and all the best in the final! 

Rink Scores 

Jean Patterson, Karen Martin, Martin Spencer and Dominic McVittie – Won 23-18 

Stephen Harris, Louise Harris, Chelsea Spencer and Mathew Orrey – Lost 20-25 

Ruby Hill, Tracy Philpott, Simon Lilley and Jordan Philpott – Lost 13-18 

Kevin Ekins, Carole Nunney, Annie Dunham and Graham Smith – Lost 14-23 

Mixed County League Result 

On Saturday 2nd March 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club travelled to Boston in their penultimate game of the season in the mixed county league. Spalding started slowly and were 19-25 behind at five ends which was extended to 33-47 at ten ends and 44-71 at 15 ends before Boston won 61-87 and 2-12 on match points. Spalding did manage one winning rink which was skipped by David Nunney, with Carole Nunney, George Deaton and Betty Deaton who won 19-17. Spalding remain top of the county south division and in a good position to make the county final at the end of the season. Well played to Boston and all the best for the rest of the season! 

Rink Scores 

Carole Nunney, George Deaton, Betty Deaton and David Nunney – Won 19-17 

Jan Sinclair, Trish Stafford, Ian Stafford and Mick Jennings – Lost 16-22 

Tony Westland, Anita Phillips, Maggie Wheatley and Graham Wright – Lost 14-21 

Ann Newbury, Maisie Belding, Mike Taylor and Anthony Cronin – Lost 12-27 

Men’s County League Result 

On Saturday 24th February 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club hosted Boston “B” in the men’s county league. Spalding dominated the match, winning one three rinks and drawing on the other, as they won 106-55 (13-1). Top winning rink was skipped by Lewis Parnell, with Jack Wells, Kevin Puttrell and Nick Wilkie who won 34-12. Spalding remain top of the county south division ahead of Stamford “A“ and Boston “A” who both have a game in hand. Crucially, Spalding have both teams to play in their final two fixtures of the season. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Jack Wells, Kevin Puttrell, Nick Wilkie and Lewis Parnell – Won 34-12

Max Butters, Gavin Staite, Anthony Cronin and David Nunney – Won 29-10 

Nathan Puttrell, George Almey, Chris Warboys and Ian Stafford – Won 24-14 

Aiden Brickles, Terry Windsor, James Teesdale and Martin Simpson – Drew 19-19 

Friendly Result 

On Saturday 24th February 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club enjoyed a friendly fixture away at Peterborough. Whilst the first half was closely contested, Spalding pulled away in the second half, eventually winning 117-92. Top winning rink was skipped by Mick Jennings, with Paul Turner and Sylvia Andrews. Well done to everyone involved! 

Men’s Over 60s County League Result 

On Thursday 22nd February 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club hosted Boston “A” in the men’s over 60s county league. It’s been a tough season for Spalding in the county south division and it was the away team who proved too strong on the day as they won by 19 shots (82-63) and 12-2 on match points. Spalding did manage one winning rink though which was skipped by Graham Hicks, with Tony Westland, Alan Tokley and Ian Stafford who won 22-14. Well played to Boston and all the best for the rest of the season! 

Rink Scores 

Tony Westland, Alan Tokley, Ian Stafford and Graham Hicks – Won 22-14 

Mike Taylor, Robin Roffe, Ian Harwood and David Nunney – Lost 17-18 

Bill Hodges, Roger Billingsley, Chris Warboys and Mick Jennings – Lost 11-20 

Mick Dolton, Paul Turner, Rob West and Graham Wright – Lost 15-30 

Mixed County League Result 

On Sunday 18th February 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club enjoyed another win in the mixed county league at home against Stamford. Spalding established an early 19-9 lead at five ends, which was extended to 42-21 at ten ends before winning by 45 shots (89-44). Spalding won on all rinks which meant that they collected maximum match points and puts them well on course to win the county south division with only two fixtures remaining. Top winning rink was skipped by Mick Jennings, with Jan Sinclair, Trish Stafford and Ian Stafford who won 28-10. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Jan Sinclair, Trish Stafford, Ian Stafford and Mick Jennings – Won 28-10 

Carole Nunney, George Deaton, Betty Deaton and David Nunney – Won 22-11 

Tony Westland, Sue Slayven, Maisie Belding and Graham Wright- Won 21-10 

Gill Haydon, Chris Williamson, Mike Taylor and Anthony Cronin – Won 18-13 

County Singles Playoffs 

On Saturday 17th February 2024, Lincoln & District Indoor Bowls Club hosted the county singles playoffs. Qualifiers from Spalding were Dominic McVittie, Graham Smith, Martin Spencer, Jordan Philpott and Stephen Harris. 

Although Martin, Jordan and Stephen all lost at the last 16 stage, Dominic qualified through to the semi-final after beating Graham in the quarter final. In the semi-final, Dominic will play Richard Ashton from Lincoln. Although representing Stamford in county competitions, Ollie Jeapes who plays his national bowls out of Spalding, will contest the other semi-final where he will play Ian Clark from Boston. 

Well done and good luck to you all! 

Denny Cup Final For Spalding Lightning 

On Saturday 10th February 2024, Spalding Lightning made it through to the final of the Denny Cup for only the second time in the club’s history. The Denny Cup is often described as the FA Cup of bowls and Spalding put their name in the record books when they lifted the trophy in 2022. 

In the semi-final on Saturday against Falcon, a club based in Chelmsford, Spalding Lightning were dominant from the outset and soon opened up a significant lead. Although winning on three out of the four rinks, the main damage was done by the rink skipped by Mathew Orrey, with Dan Mills, Ollie Jeapes and Graham Smith who won 30-12. Spalding Lightning won the match 88-52 and booked their place in the final where they will play Torquay on Saturday 13th April 2024 at Nottingham IBC. Torquay will have their own England internationals in their team so it has the making of a high quality final and one not to be missed. 

Well done to everyone involved and thank you to our travelling supporters! 

Rink Scores 

Dan Mills, Ollie Jeapes, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Won 30-12

Kevin Ekins, Nick Wilkie, Simon Lilley and Jordan Philpott – Won 21-8

Lewis Parnell, Martin Simpson, Martin Spencer and Dominic McVittie – Won 21-13

Stephen Harris, Brian Martin, Ean Morton and Tristan Morton – Lost 16-19 

Ladies Under 25 International Series 

Over the weekend of Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th February 2024, Ruby Hill represented England in the Ladies Under 25 British Isles International Series at Belfast Indoor Bowls Club. Playing in her last series at this level, Ruby was selected to skip her own rink for the first time with Hannah Smith from Malvern Hills, Jasmine Wilson from Huntingdon and Imogen Cracknell from Clevedon. 

On Saturday, England started the series well with wins against Wales (87-59) and Ireland (107-51). Although Ruby’s rink found their opposition in top form against Wales, she enjoyed a rink win against Ireland. Scotland also won comfortably against Ireland and Wales which set up a winner takes all match between England and Scotland on Sunday. 

Scotland were defended champions so it was always going to be a tough match between the two talented teams. Unfortunately, Scotland proved to be too strong on the day after taking an early lead, eventually won 86-75 and lifted the Acle Trophy on back to back occasions. 

Congratulations though to Ruby on an impressive under 25 international career and good luck at senior level. 

Champion of Champions Glory for Dominic 

Over the weekend of Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th February 2024, Spalding Lightning were well represented at the champion of champions national finals at Dolphin Indoor Bowls Club in Dorset. Although Chelsea Spencer lost in the last 16 of the ladies event against eventual runner up Morgan Merryweather from Whiteknights, Dominic McVittie came through a strong field to win the men’s event. 

On Saturday, Dominic comfortably beat Dex Weyand from Thanet 21-8 in the last 16 before overcoming a 14-6 deficit in the quarter final against John McGuinness from Desborough to win 21-20. On Sunday morning, Dominic continued his excellent form to beat Darren Griffith from Isle of Wight 21-8 in the semi-final and book his place in the final where he would play fellow international and former winner of this event, Martin Puckett from Dorchester. With the score evenly poised at 7-6 in Dominic’s favour, there was nothing to suggest that the final would be a one sided affair however, Dominic showed his class and dominance to win the second half 14-1, with it the match 21-7 and the title of national champion of champions winner. Although winning the national under 25 singles title back in 2016, this is the first time that Dominic has won an individual indoor national title so it was a special moment when he was presented with the trophy. 

Congratulations Dominic – awesome achievement! 

Men’s County League Result 

On Sunday 4th February 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club travelled away to Grantham in the men’s county league. Although Spalding came away with two winning rinks, the home team proved too strong as Grantham won by 17 shots (70-87) and 10-4 on match points. Top winning rink was skipped by captain Dan Mills, with Max Butters, Mick Dolton and Chris Warboys who won 22-15. Well played to Grantham and all the best for the rest of the season! 

Rink Scores 

Max Butters, Mick Dolton, Chris Warboys and Dan Mills – Won 22-15 

Tony Westland, George Almey, James Teesdale and Brian Martin – Won 17-16 

Jack Wells, Gavin Staite, Nick Wilkie and Ian Stafford – Lost 20-32 

Nathan Puttrell, Paul Turner, Anthony Cronin and David Nunney – Lost 11-24 

Under 30s Double Triples Result 

On Saturday 3rd February 2024, Spalding Lightning progressed to another national semi-final, this time in the under 30s double triples competition. Spalding Lightning are the defending champions and comfortably beat Hartlepool in their quarter final clash. At one stage, Spalding Lightning were 20-0 up over the two rinks before they won 33-9. Next up in the semi-final are Wellingborough on Saturday 6th April 2024 which will take place at the national championships at Nottingham. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Ollie Jeapes, Ruby Hill and Stephen Harris – Won 17-4

Dan Mills, Dale Parnell and Jordan Philpott – Won 16-5 

Trudy Bates Result 

On Thursday 1st February 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club suffered their first defeat of the season in the Trudy Bates away at Boston. The home team were ahead on aggregate for the majority of the game but Spalding fought back with determination to ensure a close finish where Spalding missed out on a match tie on a measure. This meant that Boston won 76-74 (10-4). Spalding remain top of the county south division by 17 points with two games to play. Next up is a home fixture against Skegness on Thursday 7th March 2024. Well played to Boston and all the best for the rest of the season! 

Rink Scores 

Jan Sinclair, Anita Phillips, Carly Morris and Maisie Belding – Won 19-13 

Sheila Chamberlain, Sue Slayven, Trish Stafford and Maggie Wheatley – Won 20-18

Carole Nunney, Hazel Tokley, Mandy Parkins and Julie Hicks – Lost 19-22

Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley, Petrine Ault and Betty Deaton – Lost 16-23 

Top Club Result 

On Sunday 28th January 2024, Spalding Lightning made it through to their second national semi-final of the weekend, this time in the mixed top club. Spalding Lightning progressed through the quarter final with an away win at Acle. With wins in the ladies singles, pairs, triples and fours, Spalding Lightning won 14-2 and booked their place in the semi-final where they will play Hartlepool on Saturday 23rd March 2024 at the national championships at Nottingham IBC. 

Well done and good luck to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Ladies Singles – Chelsea Spencer – Won 21-17

Men’s Singles – Stephen Harris – Lost 15-21

Pairs – Annie Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Won 17-14 

Triples – Jean Patterson, Graham Smith and Jordan Philpott – Won 19-12

Fours – Ruby Hill, Louise Harris, Martin Spencer and Mathew Orrey – Won 26-7

Friendly Result 

On Sunday 28th January 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club enjoyed a friendly fixture at home against Terrington St. Clement. Spalding proved to be too strong from the outset and won 151-57. Top winning rink was skipped by Peter Ridley, with Sue Lovett and Dee Brinkman who won 36-6. Well done to everyone involved! 

Denny Cup Quarter Final Drama

On Saturday 27th January 2024, Spalding Lightning progressed to the semi-final of the Denny Cup with a dramatic quarter final win against a strong Cumbria team which included former world indoor singles champion Mark Dawes and several former internationals.

The match was nip and tuck for a long time but it looked to be going Cumbria’s way as they opened up a ten shot lead at about 18 ends. Spalding Lightning were not willing to give up without a fight and with one rink left playing the last end, Cumbria were two shots ahead (74-76). The main damage was done by the rinks skipped by Dominic McVittie and Jordan Philpott who won 25-11 and 22-8 respectively but the last end drama was played out by Mathew Orrey’s rink. With the skips left to play, Cumbria laid one but Orrey had his own agenda as he trailed the jack two feet to make three shots and a match winning position. With Cumbria’s Stuart Airey left to play his last bowl, Spalding Lightning laid four shots. Airey looked good but got wrecked by a short bowl as Spalding Lightning scored three shots, won the match by a single shot (77-76) and booked their place in the semi-final. 

In the semi-final, Spalding Lightning will play Falcon on Saturday 10th February 2024 at a neutral venue yet to be decided. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Stephen Harris, Martin Simpson, Martin Spencer and Dominic McVittie – Won 25-11 

Kevin Ekins, Lewis Parnell, Simon Lilley and Jordan Philpott – Won 22-8 

Dan Mills, Ollie Jeapes, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Lost 20-23 

Brian Martin, Nick Wilkie, Ean Morton and Tristan Morton – Lost 10-34

Over 60s County League Result 

On Thursday 25th January 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s tough season in the men’s over 60s county league continued with a home defeat against Stamford. The away side won on three out of the four rinks and by 24 shots on aggregate (89-65). Spalding did manage one winning rink which was skipped by David Nunney, with Bill Hodges, Roger Billingsley and Ian Harwood who won 22-18. 

Well played to Stamford and all the best for the rest of the season! 

Rink Scores 

Bill Hodges, Roger Billingsley, Ian Harwood and David Nunney – Won 22-18

Mick Dolton, Paul Turner, Rob West and Graham Wright – Lost 16-22 

Dave Amess, Robin Roffe, Gavin Staite and Chris Warboys – Lost 16-24 

Tony Westland, Neil Strickson, Ian Stafford and Terry Windsor – Lost 11-25 

National Glory For Ruby 

Over the weekend of Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st January 2024, Ruby Hill played at the national under 25 singles finals at Solihull Indoor Bowls Club. Ruby qualified for the finals with wins earlier in the season against Alice Atkin from Church Gresley and Amica Fordy from Hartlepool. 

In the quarter final, Ruby beat Yasmina Hasan from Egham in straight sets and she booked her place in the final with another straight sets win in the semi-final against Hannah Smith from Malvern Hills. 

Ruby’s opposition in the final was fellow under 25 international Imogen Jenner from Swale. Ruby made light work winning the first set 12-3 and scored a timely full house of four shots to go 8-5 up with one end to play in the second set. Ruby held her nerve to score one shot, win the set 9-5 and the title of national under 25 singles champion for the second time after she won it for the first time during the 2021/22 season. Ruby will also represent England at the British Isles Championships in March and the Junior World Championships next season. 

Congratulations Ruby – amazing achievement! 

County Sets Singles 

On Sunday 21st January 2024, Stamford Indoor Bowls Club hosted the county sets singles playoffs. Spalding were well represented with defending champion Dominic McVittie, Jordan Philpott, Martin Spencer, Stephen Harris and Dan Mills. 

Dominic and Jordan booked their places in the semi-finals whilst Martin, Stephen and Dan all played their part in a good day. 

Dominic kept his hopes alive of a third consecutive county sets singles title with wins against Kevin Rands from Lincoln (2-1), Paul Johnson from Scunthorpe (2-0) and James Staples from Lincoln (2-0). Jordan got through the day with wins against Mike Kent from Lincoln (2-0), Darren Trapmore from Horncastle (2-0) and a closely contested match against club mate Martin Spencer on the last end of the tie break (2-1). Earlier in the day, Stephen beat Dan in the last 16 before losing out the Chris Ballard in the quarter final. 

Dominic will play Ballard in the semi-final whilst Jordan will play Richard Ashton from Lincoln. County semi-finals will be played at Louth on Sunday 17th March 2024.

Well done and all the best to Dominic and Jordan in the semi-final and hopefully final! 

Friendly Result 

On Sunday 21st January 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s friendly team enjoyed an away fixture at Huntingdon. After ten ends, Spalding were 12 shots behind however, a concerted effort saw a strong finish from the away side as Spalding eventually won 108-82. Spalding won on four rinks, drew on one and lost on one but top winning rink was skipped by Lily Drawbridge, with Peter Canfield and Dee Brinkman who won 22-12. Well done to everyone involved! 

Mason Trophy Result 

On Friday 19th January 2024, Spalding Lightning played in a closely contested match in the Mason Trophy against Lincoln. Spalding Lightning started the stronger of the two teams but Lincoln fought back to ensure a nail biting finish for the players and spectators. With the home rink winning by ten and the away rink losing by ten, the match was to be decided on an extra end. Before the match, the rink nominated to play the extra end was to be played at Lincoln. It was the rink from Lincoln though that held their nerve to win the extra end and with it the match. 

Well played to Lincoln and all the best for the rest of the competition! 

Rink Scores 

Home 

Jean Patterson, Jan Sinclair, Sandra Hammond and Maisie Belding – Won 20-10 

Away 

Ann Newbury, Carole Nunney, Betty Deaton and Julie Hicks – Lost 11-22 

Under 18 International Glory for Ollie 

Between Friday 12th and Sunday 14th January 2024, Ollie Jeapes represented England at the British Isles under 18 international series in Wales. Ollie was selected to lead the triples with Sam Brugnoli from Huntingdon and Charlie Beeton from Ipswich and was joined by Izzy Pymm from Melton in the fours. 

It was a series to remember for Ollie as he came away with the gold medal in the triples and England secured team silver behind Scotland who won the series. 

Ollie, Sam and Charlie started the series well with a straight sets win in the triples against Ireland (6-5, 13-0). In the semi-final, they played Wales and were dominant in another straight sets win (10-3, 14-1) to book their place in the gold medal match against Scotland. They continued their impressive form as they won the gold medal in the triples without dropping a set and won the final 8-1, 5-1. 

Unfortunately, it didn’t go as well for Ollie in the fours as they lost against representatives from British Lions and Scotland but a win against Wales in their third game meant that they finished 7th in the fours. 

Well done to Ollie and the rest of Team England. You should be very proud, and we are sure that you will have more opportunities to represent your country in the future! 

Egham Trophy Result 

On Sunday 14th January 2024, Spalding Lightning progressed to the semi-final of the Egham Trophy with a quarter final win against Norfolk IBC. Spalding Lightning suffered an agonising extra end semi-final defeat against Huntingdon last season so will be hoping for better fortune this season. 

In the quarter final on Sunday, it was Norfolk who started the stronger of the two teams but Spalding Lightning showed their fighting qualities to bring the score back level at around 15 ends. The comeback was finished off as Spalding Lightning won by four shots (84-80) which was mainly due to the home rink of Carole Nunney, Louise Harris, Stephen Harris and Mathew Orrey who won 29-12. It was certainly a team effort though as Jordan Philpott’s rink came back from 7-18 down to win 26-24, Dominic McVittie’s away rink drew after falling 2-11 down early on and although Graham Smith’s rink found it tough and their opposition on top form, they certainly played their part as they won four of their last five ends. 

Next up in the national semi-final are Wellingborough at a neutral venue on Sunday 3rd March 2024. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Home 

Carole Nunney, Louise Harris, Stephen Harris and Mathew Orrey – Won 29-12

Ruby Hill, Tracy Philpott, Simon Lilley and Jordan Philpott – Won 26-24 

Away 

Jean Patterson, Karen Martin, Martin Spencer and Dominic McVittie – Drew 17-17 

Kevin Ekins, Julie Hicks, Chelsea Spencer and Graham Smith – Lost 12-27 

Friendly Result 

On Sunday 14th January 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s friendly team enjoyed an away game at Sleaford. The home team took an early lead, but Spalding led 72-58 at ten ends before eventually winning 125-94. Spalding won on four of the six rinks and their top winning rink was skipped by Peter Ridley, with Pat Cox and Peter Canfield. Well done to everyone involved! 

Men’s County League Result 

On Saturday 13th January 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s unbeaten run in the men’s county league came to an end away against Stamford “B”. The match was closely contested, and Spalding were actually ahead at the halfway stage, but the home team battled hard to eventually win by five shots (82-77) and also won 12-2 on match points. Spalding did manage one winning rink which was skipped by Martin Simpson, with Nathan Puttrell, Aidan Brickles and Nick Wilkie who won 28-11. Spalding remain top of the county south division but only by four points ahead of Stamford “A”. Spalding’s next fixture will be away at Grantham on Sunday 4th February 2024. Well played to Stamford and all the best for the rest of the season! 

Rink Scores 

Nathan Puttrell, Aidan Brickles, Nick Wilkie and Martin Simpson – Won 28-11 

Paul Turner, Robin Roffe, James Teesdale and Ian Stafford – Lost 23-24 

Eric Wakefield, Terry Windsor, Anthony Cronin and David Nunney – Lost 12-19 

Oliver Stanley, Kevin Puttrell, Graham Hicks and Lewis Parnell – Lost 14-28 

World Championship Heartache For Annie 

On Friday 12th and Sunday 14th January 2024, Annie Dunham played at the World Indoor Championships at Potters Leisure Resort, Hopton-On-Sea in Norfolk. Annie went through qualifying earlier in the season and booked her place in the Ladies World Matchplay which also meant that she was partnered with one of the top 8 men to play in the World Mixed Pairs event. 

On Friday, Annie played with David Gourlay MBE against defending mixed pairs champions Ceri Ann Glen and Stewart Anderson. Unfortunately, Annie and David found their opposition in top form and Glen and Anderson who won 9-5, 8-5. It didn’t get any easier for Annie on Sunday in the Ladies World Matchplay as she played defending and five-time champion Katherine Rednall. Annie lost a high quality, closely contested encounter 1.5-0.5 (11-5, 6-6). 

Although it was not the result she wanted, Annie fulfilled a childhood dream to play at the world championships on the portable rink and certainly played her part in both games. 

Top Club Result 

On Sunday 7th January 2024, Spalding Lightning played away against Nottingham in the mixed top club. After the dramatic finish in the Denny Cup only the day before, Spalding Lightning put on a dominant display as they won all disciplines, apart from the fours who drew which meant that the overall match result was 14-2 in favour of the two-time national top club champions. Next up in the quarter final is another away game against Acle. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Ladies Singles – Chelsea Spencer – Won 21-18 

Men’s Singles – Stephen Harris – Won 21-18 

Pairs – Annie Dunham and Graham Smith – Won 21-3

Triples – Jean Patterson, Simon Lilley and Jordan Philpott – Won 17-6 

Fours – Ruby Hill, Louise Harris, Martin Spencer and Mathew Orrey – Drew 11-11 

Denny Cup Result 

On Saturday 6th January 2024, Spalding Lightning progressed through to the quarter final of the Denny Cup with a last 16 win against Nottingham. The 2022 champions were pushed all the way, and the match reached an exciting conclusion. Spalding Lightning looked down and out as they were eight behind (60-68) with the two home rinks playing their last end. Mathew Orrey’s rink picked up two shots which meant that the rink skipped by Jordan Philpott needed to pick up a minimum of six shots to force an extra end or seven shots to win the game. What happened next was nothing short of unbelievable after the last end had already been killed on two occasions. Kevin Ekins and Lewis Parnell set up the head really well before Simon Lilley turned the jack round the corner to make four shots to give a glimmer of hope. The Nottingham number three then took out their nearest bowl to leave Spalding Lightning holding five shots with the skips to play. Philpott drew both of his bowls in to hold the match winning seven shots with one bowl to come. The Nottingham skip’s bowl was a fraction heavy which meant that Spalding Lightning won the match by a single shot (69-68) and booked their place in the quarter final where they will play Cumbria on Saturday 27thJanuary 2024. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Home 

Kevin Ekins, Lewis Parnell, Simon Lilley and Jordan Philpott – Won 22-16

Dan Mills, Jack Wells, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Lost 15-18 

Away 

Brian Martin, Nick Wilkie, Ean Morton and Tristan Morton – Won 20-16 

Ollie Jeapes, Martin Simpson, Stephen Harris and Martin Spencer – Lost 12-18 

County Mixed League Result 

On Saturday 6th January 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club travelled away to Grantham for the next fixture in the county mixed league. A good start saw the away team 24-17 up at five ends which was extended to 53-32 at ten ends and 74-44 by 15 ends before a final 93-55 score line. Spalding won on all rinks which meant that they secured all 14 match points. Top winning rink was skipped by Graham Wright, with Tony Westland, Sue Jackson and Maggie Wheatley who won 29-6. Spalding’s next fixture will be at home against Stamford on Sunday 18th February 2024. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Tony Westland, Sue Jackson, Maggie Wheatley and Graham Wright – Won 29-6 

Jan Sinclair, Tim Rogers, Maisie Belding and Mick Jennings – Won 23-12 

Carole Nunney, George Deaton, Betty Deaton and David Nunney – Won 20-18 

Ann Newbury, Petrine Ault, Mike Taylor and Anthony Cronin – Won 21-19 

Trudy Bates Result 

On Thursday 4th January 2024, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s ladies played their 5th game of the season in the Trudy Bates county south division away at Skegness. Historically, this has always been a tough fixture and this season was no different. At the halfway stage, Spalding were only ahead on one rink and Skegness were 11 shots ahead on aggregate. By the 15th end, Skegness had extended their lead to 57-34 however, a spirited fight back by Spalding saw the final score a draw, 64-64 and the match points also shared, 7-7. Winning on two rinks, top winning rink was skipped by Betty Deaton, with Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley and Petrine Ault who won 19-10. Next up is another away fixture at Boston on 1st February 2024. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores

Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley, Petrine Ault and Betty Deaton – Won 19-10 

Sheila Chamberlain, Carole Nunney, Mandy Parkins and Julie Hicks – Won 14-12 

Jan Sinclair, Anita Phillips, Carly Morris and Maisie Belding – Lost 16-18 

Jean Patterson, Sue Slayven, Hazel Tokley and Maggie Wheatley – Lost 15-24

Under 25 Singles Qualification for Ruby 

On Friday 15th December 2023, Ruby Hill qualified for the national under 25 singles after beating Amica Fordy from Hartlepool on the last end of the tie break, 2-1. Ruby won the national title in the 2021/22 so will hope to win the title for the second time. She will now play at the finals which are being held at Solihull Indoor Bowls Club between Friday 19th and Sunday 21st January 2024. Well done and good luck! 

Champion of Champions Qualification for Chelsea and Dominic 

On Thursday 14th December 2023, Chelsea Spencer and Dominic McVittie qualified for the national champion of champions finals. As 2022/23 season club champions, they went on to represent Spalding in the champion of champions competition and have done the club proud by qualifying to the national finals. In the ladies event area final, Chelsea beat Mary Johnson from Horncastle, 21-11 whilst in the men’s final, Dominic beat Paul Bark, also from Horncastle, 21-16. They will now play at the finals which are being held at Dolphin Indoor Bowls Club over the weekend of Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th February 2024. Well done and good luck to you both! 

Trudy Bates Result 

On Wednesday 13th December 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club travelled to Stamford in the final Trudy Bates fixture before the Christmas break. This has always been a challenging fixture for the Spalding ladies and true to form, Stamford led until around the 14th end. Spalding picked up seven shots on the next end to go 63-57 ahead and managed to stay in front to win the aggregate by eight shots (83-75). Spalding won on two rinks, but the top winning rink was skipped by Julie Hicks, with Sheila Chamberlain, Carole Nunney and Mandy Parkins who won 27-15. Spalding also won 10-4 on match points. Going into the festive period, Spalding remain top of the county south division and on course for reaching the county final at the end of the season. Well done to everyone involved!

Rink Scores 

Sheila Chamberlain, Carole Nunney, Mandy Parkins and Julie Hicks – Won 27-15 

Jean Patterson, Sue Slayven, Chris Jackson and Maggie Wheatley – Won 23-17 

Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley, Petrine Ault and Betty Deaton – Lost 15-16 

Gill Haydon, Anita Phillips, Hazel Tokley and Maisie Belding – Lost 18-27 

Egham Trophy Result 

On Sunday 10th December 2023, Spalding Lightning made it through to the quarter final of the Egham Trophy with a convincing win against Barwell. Spalding Lightning were always in control and Barwell conceded when all rinks had played between 12 and 14 ends with the score at 78-26. Although winning on all rinks, the main damage was done by the rink skipped at home by Graham Smith, with Kevin Ekins, Carole Nunney and Annie Dunham who had an impressive 28-2 rink win. The national quarter final will be played on Sunday 14th January 2024 where opposition is unknown. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Home 

Kevin Ekins, Carole Nunney, Annie Dunham and Graham Smith – Won 28-2 

Ruby Hill, Tracy Philpott, Simon Lilley and Jordan Philpott – Won 18-7 

Away 

Stephen Harris, Julie Hicks, Chelsea Spencer and Mathew Orrey – Won 18-7 

Jean Patterson, Karen Martin, Martin Spencer and Dominic McVittie – Won 14-10

Friendly Result 

On Sunday 10th December 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club enjoyed a friendly fixture against the Lincolnshire VPs. Spalding started the stronger of the two teams and were as many as 30 shots ahead but the visitors fought back to reduce the deficit to six at 14 ends. Spalding eventually won 106-92. Top winning rink was skipped by George Deaton, with Tony Westland, Paul Lockie and Martin Holmes who won 25-7. Well done to everyone involved! 

Denny Cup and Yetton Trophy Results 

On Saturday 9th December 2023, there were mixed emotions for Spalding Lightning as the men progressed in the Denny Cup but the ladies crashed out of the Yetton Trophy. 

Starting with the men in the Denny Cup, a competition that Spalding Lightning won in 2022, they beat Huntingdon by 16 shots, 81-65 to book their place in the last 16. Spalding Lightning were three behind at five ends but by ten ends, they were 45-27 up. The lead was reduced slightly by 15 ends (58-46) before Spalding Lightning won 81-65. Spalding Lightning won on all rinks but top winning rink was skipped at home by Jordan Philpott, with Kevin Ekins, David Nunney and Simon Lilley who won 24-15. The other home rink skipped by Mathew Orrey also had an impressive result against Nicky Brett as they turned round a 13-2 deficit to eventually win 18-16. Next up are Nottingham in the last 16 on Saturday 6th January 2024. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Home 

Kevin Ekins, David Nunney, Simon Lilley and Jordan Philpott – Won 24-15

Dan Mills, Jack Wells, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Won 18-16

Away 

Ollie Jeapes, Martin Simpson, Martin Spencer and Dominic McVittie – Won 18-15

Brian Martin, Nick Wilkie, Stephen Harris and Tristan Morton – Won 21-19 

Over to the ladies in the Yetton Trophy who played a strong St Neots in the last 32. The match was closely contested and Spalding Lightning were in front by one shot at ten ends. Unfortunately, St Neots pulled away second half of the game as they went 68-61 up at 15 ends before eventually winning 94-81. Spalding Lightning did manage one winning rink which was skipped by Chelsea Spencer, with Carole Nunney, Mandy Parkins and Sandra Hammond who won 26-11. Well played to St Neots and all the best for the rest of the competition! 

Rink Scores

Home 

Carole Nunney, Mandy Parkins, Sandra Hammond and Chelsea Spencer – Won 26-11

Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault, Tracy Philpott and Ruby Hill – Lost 19-33

Away 

Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley, Betty Deaton and Julie Hicks – Lost 19-21

Jan Sinclair, Sue Slayven, Maggie Wheatley and Maisie Belding – Lost 17-29 

England Call Ups for Six Spalding Stars 

Six members of Spalding Indoor Bowls Club received call ups to play for England this week. 

It was a special moment especially for Dominic McVittie who has been selected to play for the men’s senior team for the first time whilst Stephen Harris and Graham Smith retain their places. McVittie will play number three to current world indoor singles champion Jamie Walker, with Shaun Jones and Andrew Walters at the front end, Harris will lead a rink with Martin Puckett, Les Gillett and Greg Harlow whilst Smith will play at number two in a rink skipped by Robert Paxton, with Paul Hartley who has been recalled into the team and Joe Dawson who will also be playing for his country for the first time. 

Ruby Hill, Annie Dunham and Chelsea Spencer also retained their places in the ladies senior team. Hill and Dunham will play in the same rink at lead and skip respectively with Kylie Jenkins and team captain Sandy Hazell. Spencer will also skip her own rink with Cassidy Hampton, Chloe Brett and Anna Noble. 

Ruby was also called up to play in the ladies under 25 team where she will skip a rink for the first time with Hannah Smith, Jasmine Wilson and Imogen Cracknell. 

The ladies under 25 British Isles international series will first take place at Belfast Indoor Bowls Club over the weekend of Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th February 2024. Scotland won the series in 2023 so England will be keen to regain the Acle Trophy. It will then be over to the ladies senior team and their series will take place at Falcon Indoor Bowls Club between Friday 8th and Sunday 10th March 2024. England are defending champions after winning the series in Scotland last season so our ladies will hope that the home crowd can help them win the Clara Johns Trophy back to back. Soon after, the men’s senior team will take to the green, also at Falcon Indoor Bowls Club between Thursday 14th and Saturday 16th March 2024. Last season, Scotland ended England’s record breaking run of seven consecutive series wins so England will be trying to regain the Hilton Trophy in front of home support. 

Good luck to you all and the rest of Team England! 

Men’s County League Result 

On Saturday 2nd December 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club secured an important win at home against Grantham in the men’s county league. Before the game, Grantham were challenging Spalding at the top of the county’s south division but a strong performance from the home side saw them win by 19 shots (83-64). Spalding also won 12-2 on match points but the main damage was done by the rink skipped by Brian Martin, with Lewis Parnell, James Teesdale and Anthony Cronin who won 28-11. This win keeps Spalding at the top of the south division and are currently 16 points clear of Stamford “A” who have a game in hand. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Lewis Parnell, James Teesdale, Anthony Cronin & Brian Martin – Won 28-11

Nick Wilkie, Mick Dolton, Kevin Ekins & Jordan Philpott – Won 21-13

Jack Wells, Tim Rogers, Martin Simpson & Simon Lilley – Won 20-18

Tony Westland, Terry Windsor, David Nunney & Dan Mills – Lost 14-22

Cheque Presentation to Tulip Suite 

On Tuesday 28th November 2023, a cheque for £1,000 was presented to Alison Morant, Deputy CTL of the Tulip Suite at the Johnson Hospital. The money was raised by the ladies sub committee at Spalding Indoor Bowls Club with events like the recent cake stall, President’s charity day, summer drives, Australian pairs games and the penny jar competition. Well done to everyone for raising money for such a worthy cause! 

Men’s Over 60s Double Rink Result 

On Tuesday 28th November 2023, Spalding Lightning played against Louth in the men’s over 60s national double rink with one rink being played at home and one away. Unfortunately, Spalding Lightning’s run came to an end as Louth won by five shots (35-40). Spalding Lightning did put up a good fight though as the home rink skipped by Graham Wright won by eight shots, but the away rink found their opposition on top form at Louth. Well played to Louth and all the best for the rest of the competition!

Rink Scores

Home

B. Hodges, M. Taylor, G. Hicks & G. Wright – Won 24-16

Away 

M. Dolton, I. Stafford, T. Windsor & D. Nunney – Lost 11-24

Egham Trophy Result 

On Sunday 26th November 2023, Spalding Lightning played Huntingdon in the Egham Trophy in a repeat of last season’s national semi-final where Huntingdon won on an extra end. The match was equally competitive, but Spalding Lightning had to show their fighting qualities to claw back a 20-shot deficit to see the match level with one rink playing their last end. The away rink skipped by Mathew Orrey played the last end with the crowd on the edge of their seat. Spalding Lightning held their nerve to win the last end and with it the match by a single shot, 68-67. Although everyone played a massive part in securing this win, the top winning rink was skipped at home by Jordan Philpott, with Carole Nunney, Tracy Philpott and Simon Lilley who won 21-14. Next up are Barwell in the last 16 on Sunday 10th December 2023.  

Rink Scores

Home 

Carole Nunney, Tracy Philpott, Simon Lilley & Jordan Philpott – Won 21-14

Kevin Ekins, Karen Martin, Annie Dunham & Graham Smith – Lost 13-20

Away 

Jean Patterson, Louise Harris, Dan Mills & Dominic McVittie – Won 18-17

Ruby Hill, Julie Hicks, Stephen Harris & Mathew Orrey – Drew 16-16

Men’s County League Result 

On Saturday 25th November 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club had a comprehensive home win against Stamford “B” in the men’s county league. Spalding won on all rinks which meant that they secured all 14 available match points, but the top winning rink was skipped by captain Dan Mills, with Nathan Puttrell, Gavin Staite and James Teesdale who won 37-13. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores

Nathan Puttrell, Gavin Staite, James Teesdale & Dan Mills – Won 37-13

Max Butters, Paul Turner, Tim Rogers & Ian Stafford – Won 27-19

Tony Westland, Jack Wells, Anthony Cronin & Martin Simpson – Won 20-13

Oliver Stanley, Mick Dolton, Chris Warboys & Brian Martin – Won 21-16

Mason Trophy Result 

On Friday 24th November 2023, Spalding Lightning progressed in the Mason Trophy with a resounding 45-19 win against Peterborough. With one rink played at home and one away, Spalding Lightning won on both rinks, but the away rink of Ann Newbury, Carole Nunney, Betty Deaton and Julie Hicks had an impressive 26-6 rink win. Next up are Grantham on Friday 8th December 2023. Well done to everyone! 

Rink Scores

Home 

Jean Patteron, Jan Sinclair, Sandra Hammond & Maisie Belding – Won 19-13

Away 

Ann Newbury, Carole Nunney, Betty Deaton & Julie Hicks – Won 26-6

Trudy Bates Result 

On Thursday 23rd November 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s ladies remain unbeaten in the Trudy Bates as they travelled to Grantham for their third match of the season. Spalding surged ahead from the beginning and the lead extended throughout. Spalding eventually won 100-45, winning on all rinks and took full points to keep them top of the county’s south division. Top winning rink on the day was skipped by Betty Deaton, with Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley and Petrine Ault who had an impressive 31-7 rink win. Their final match before Christmas will be played away at Stamford on Wednesday 13th December 2023. Well done to everyone involved!

Rink Scores 

Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley, Petrine Ault & Betty Deaton – Won 31-7

Sheila Chamberlain, Carole Nunney, Mandy Parkins & Julie Hicks – Won 29-6

Jan Sinclair, Anita Phillips, Hazel Tokley & Maisie Belding – Won 19-13

Jean Patterson, Sue Slayven, Chris Jackson & Maggie Wheatley – Won 21-19

England Under 18 Call Up For Ollie 

Congratulations to Ollie Jeapes who has been selected to represent England at the forthcoming under 18 international series which will take place at Sully Indoor Bowls Club in Wales over the weekend of Saturday 13th and Sunday 14thJanuary 2024. The talented youngster was selected as travelling reserve last season and impressed when he was subbed in later in the series which no doubt contributed to his selection this season. He will now attend a squad day on Sunday 10th December 2023. 

All the best to Ollie and the rest of Team England! 

Men’s Over 60s County League Result 

On Wednesday 22nd November 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club travelled to Stamford in their most recent fixture of the men’s over 60s county league. Unfortunately, they came up against a strong Stamford side who were dominant throughout and won by 49 shots (95-46). Stamford won on three rinks and drew on one meaning that they also won 13-1 on match points. Spalding have one more fixture before Christmas which is an away trip against Boston “A” on Thursday 21st December 2023. 

Well played to Stamford and all the best for the rest of the season!

Rink Scores

T. Westland, N. Strickson, I. Stafford & T. Windsor – Drew 16-16

M. Dolton, A. Tokley, R. Roffe & K. Jackson – Lost 12-24

A. Brinkman, D. Amess, C. Warboys & G. Staite – Lost 11-27

B. Hodges, T. Rogers, R. Billingsley & M. Jennings – Lost 7-28

Top Club Result 

On Sunday 19th November 2023, Spalding Lightning got through to the last 16 of the mixed top club after winning at home against Huntingdon, a team which also boasts international players of their own. Spalding Lightning secured early points when Annie Dunham won in the ladies singles but the overall match was certainly in the balance before Stephen Harris won the men’s singles with his last bowl of the game. This meant that Spalding Lightning needed one win from the last three disciplines and an aggregate win to progress to the next round. Wins in the pairs and fours ensured a safe passage into the last 16 and a 12-4 match win. Next up is an away game against Nottingham on Sunday 7th January 2024. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Ladies Singles – Annie Dunham – Won 21-13 

Men’s Singles – Stephen Harris – Won 21-20 

Pairs – Chelsea Spencer and Dominic McVittie – Won 18-15 

Triples – Jean Patterson, Graham Smith and Jordan Philpott – Lost 13-22 

Fours – Ruby Hill, Louise Harris, Martin Spencer and Mathew Orrey – Won 15-12 

County Mixed League Result 

On Sunday 19th November 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club hosted Grantham in the mixed county league and remain undefeated in the south division. However, Grantham started the stronger of the two teams and were five shots ahead at the halfway stage. Spalding dominated the second half though to win overall by 35 shots, 94-59. Three rink wins and a narrow defeat saw Spalding also win 12-2 on match points. Top winning rink was skipped by David Nunney, with Carole Nunney, George Deaton and Betty Deaton who won 27-10. Spalding stay top of the county south division and their next fixture will be away at Grantham on Saturday 6th January 2024. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Carole Nunney, George Deaton, Betty Deaton and David Nunney – Won 27-10 

Gill Haydon, Petrine Ault, Mike Taylor and Anthony Cronin – Won 24-11 

Jan Sinclair, Tim Rogers, Maisie Belding and Mick Jennings – Won 25-19 

Tony Westland, Sue Slayven, Maggie Wheatley and Graham Wright – Lost 18-19 

International Trials 

The English Indoor Bowling Association have recently announced who have been selected to attend international trials at Nottingham Indoor Bowls Club over the weekend of Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd December 2023. Spalding will be well represented all weekend and have someone taking part at every level. 

Senior Men – Stephen Harris, Graham Smith and Dominic McVittie 

Senior Women – Ruby Hill, Chelsea Spencer and Annie Dunham 

Under 25 Men and Mixed Under 18 – Ollie Jeapes 

Under 25 Women – Ruby Hill 

Denny Cup and Yetton Trophy Results 

On Saturday 18th November 2023, Spalding Lightning progressed in both the Denny Cup and Yetton Trophy with wins against Boston and Barwell respectively. 

Starting with the men in the Denny Cup against local rivals Boston, the match was closely contested, albeit Spalding Lightning managed the keep their noses in front for the majority of the game. Spalding Lightning were 21-16 up at five ends, 41-36 at ten ends and 56-53 at 15 ends before a strong finish by the 2021 champions saw them win 85-68. Spalding Lightning won on two rinks and lost on two but the difference was the rinks skipped by Graham Smith at home and Dominic McVittie away who won 29-15 and 22-8 respectively. Next up are Huntingdon on Saturday 9thDecember 2023. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores

Home 

Dan Mills, Jack Wells, Stephen Harris and Graham Smith – Won 29-15 

Kevin Ekins, Ollie Jeapes, Simon Lilley and Jordan Philpott – Lost 20-22 

Away 

Lewis Parnell, Martin Simpson, Martin Spencer and Dominic McVittie – Won 22-8 

Brian Martin, Nick Wilkie, Ean Morton and Tristan Morton – Lost 14-23 

Over to the ladies in the Yetton Trophy against Barwell. Spalding Lightning were in front during the early exchanges and were 20-10 up at five ends and 33-29 at ten ends but Barwell had taken a narrow lead at 15 ends (47-50). Spalding Lightning were soon back in front by 18 ends (65-55) before winning the match by 14 shots, 77-63. The damage was certainly done at home by the rinks skipped by Chelsea Spencer and Ruby Hill but top winning rink was skipped by Ruby, with Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault and Tracy Philpott who won 29-10. Next up are St Neots on Saturday 9th December 2023. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Home 

Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault, Tracy Philpott and Ruby Hill – Won 29-10 

Carole Nunney, Mandy Parkin, Sandra Hammond and Chelsea Spencer – Won 23-7 

Away 

Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley, Betty Deaton and Julie Hicks – Lost 10-20 

Jan Sinclair, Sue Slayven, Maggie Wheatley and Maisie Belding – Lost 15-26 

Friendly Result 

On Sunday 12th November 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club had an enjoyable friendly fixture at Melton Mowbray. The match was closely contested with Melton coming out on top by six shots (113-119). Spalding’s top winning rink was skipped by J. McGroaty, with J. Rawding and D. Brinkman. Thank you to Melton for the game and all the best for the rest of the season. 

Egham Trophy Result 

On Sunday 12th November 2023, Spalding Lightning showed a dominant display against Grantham in the Egham Trophy. Spalding Lightning stamped their authority from the outset and won on all rinks. Top winning rink was skipped at home by Annie Dunham, with Dan Mills, Maggie Wheatley and Kevin Ekins who had an impressive 36-9 rink win. Next up are Huntingdon on Sunday 26th November 2023 in a repeat of last season’s national semi-final. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Home 

Dan Mills, Maggie Wheatley, Kevin Ekins and Annie Dunham – Won 36-9 

Carole Nunney, Tracy Philpott, Simon Lilley and Jordan Philpott – Won 20-15 

Away 

Jean Patterson, Julie Hicks, Stephen Harris and Graham Smith – Won 25-13

Brian Martin, Louise Harris, Ruby Hill and Dominic McVittie – Won 23-13 

Men’s County League Result 

On Saturday 11th November 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club travelled away to play Boston “B” in the men’s county league. Spalding are currently undefeated and won a close match at Boston by six shots, 78-72, as well as securing 10 of the available 14 match points. Top winning rink was skipped by Dan Mills, with Nathan Puttrell, Jack Wells and James Teesdale who won 26-13. Spalding are second in the south division, only four points behind Grantham who meet at Spalding on Saturday 2nd December 2023. Before then though, Spalding will play Stamford “B” on Saturday 25th November 2023. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Nathan Puttrell, Jack Wells, James Teesdale and Dan Mills – Won 26-13 

Oliver Stanley, Kevin Puttrell, Chris Warboys and Brian Martin – Won 20-15 

Aiden Brickles, Gavin Staite, Tim Rogers and David Nunney – Lost 20-23 

Max Butters, Robin Roffe, Lewis Parnell and Ian Stafford – Lost 12-21 

Over 60 County League Result 

On Thursday 9th November 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club hosted Lincoln in the men’s over 60 county league. A strong Lincoln team who are currently top of the county south division proved too good on the day and won the overall match aggregate by 18 shots, 64-82. The match result was 11-3 in Lincoln’s favour. Spalding did manage one winning rink which was skipped by Mick Jennings, with Martyn Stanley, Dave Amess and Roger Billingsley who won 19-18. Well played to Lincoln and all the best for the rest of the season! 

Rink Scores 

M. Stanley, D. Amess, R. Billingsley and M. Jennings – Won 19-18

M. Taylor, R. Roffe, I. Harwood and D. Nunney – Drew 17-17 

B. Hodges, J. Teasdale, I. Stafford and T. Windsor – Lost 14-18 

P. Turner, G. Hicks, K. Jackson and G. Wright – Lost 14-29 

Over 60 Double Rink Result 

On Tuesday 7th November 2023, Spalding Lightning played against Stamford in the over 60 double rink. One rink played at home and one away, an exciting finish saw the match come down to the last end where Spalding Lightning won overall by a single shot, 32-31. Next up are Louth on Tuesday 28th November 2023. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Home 

Bill Hodges, Mike Taylor, Graham Hicks and Graham Wright – Lost 12-17 

Away 

Mick Dolton, Ian Stafford, Terry Windsor and David Nunney – Won 20-14 

Under 30s Double Triples Result 

On Sunday 5th November 2023, Spalding Lightning started the defence of the under 30s double triples competition. The team was forced into a change from last season as Dominic McVittie is now too old whilst Chelsea Spencer enters her last year in the competition.

Spalding Lightning’s first round opponents were Boston who were not phased by playing the defending champions and actually were as far as 17-4 up across the two rinks during the early exchanges. However, Chelsea Spencer’s rink at home picked up eleven shots in two ends to put some pressure back on Boston. Both rinks battled hard and when Spalding Lightning went in front, they closed out the match well, both rinks winning by five shots and an overall aggregate score of 41-31. Next up are Lincoln or Sleaford on Saturday 25th November 2023. Well done to everyone involved!

Rink Scores 

Home – Dan Mills, Ruby Hill and Chelsea Spencer – Won 20-15 

Away – Ollie Jeapes, Stephen Harris and Jordan Philpott – Won 21-16 

Denny Cup and Yetton Trophy Results 

On Saturday 4th November 2023, Spalding Lightning progressed in both the Denny Cup and Yetton Trophy against Grantham and Charnwood respectively. Both teams won comfortably and on all rinks. 

Starting with the men in the Denny Cup, Spalding Lightning were in control from the start and were 24-12 up at five ends. This was extended to 50-26 at ten ends and 77-36 at 15 ends before Grantham conceded with the score at 100-43. Special mention for 16 year old Jack Wells who made his Denny Cup debut and played well. Top winning rink was skipped away by Tristan Morton, with Brian Martin, Nick Wilkie and Stephen Harris who won 30-12. Next up are Boston on Saturday 18th November 2023. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores

Home

Kevin Ekins, Ollie Jeapes, Simon Lilley and Jordan Philpott – Won 27-13 

Dan Mills, Jack Wells, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Won 19-10 

Away 

Brian Martin, Nick Wilkie, Stephen Harris and Tristan Morton – Won 30-12 

Lewis Parnell, Martin Simpson, Martin Spencer and Dominic McVittie – Won 24-8 

The ladies in the Yetton Trophy stamped their authority from the outset and were 39-8 up at five ends, mainly thanks to the rink skipped by Ruby Hill who raced into a 17-0 lead. The lead was 59-21 at ten ends before Charnwood conceded with all rinks having played 15 or 16 ends and the score at 90-35. Top winning rink was skipped at home by Ruby Hill, with Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault and Tracy Philpott who had an impressive 33-4 rink win. Next up are Barwell on Saturday 18th November 2023. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Home 

Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault, Tracy Philpott and Ruby Hill – Won 33-4 

Sheila Chamberlain, Carole Nunney, Sandra Hammond and Chelsea Spencer – Won 17-9 

Away 

Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley, Betty Deaton and Julie Hicks – Won 21-9 

Jan Sinclair, Sue Slayven, Maggie Wheatley and Maisie Belding – Won 19-13 

Egham Trophy Result 

On Sunday 29th October 2023, Spalding Lightning progressed in the Egham Trophy against local rivals Boston. The match was closely contested for the first half but Spalding Lightning stepped up a gear from about ten ends to open up a good lead before winning the match by 29 shots (93-64). Although Spalding Lightning won on three rinks, their best rink was skipped at home by Jordan Philpott, with Louise Harris, Tracy Philpott and Simon Lilley who won 32-10. Next up in the third round are Grantham on Sunday 12th November 2023. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Home 

Louise Harris, Tracy Philpott, Simon Lilley and Jordan Philpott – Won 32-10

Kevin Ekins, Carole Nunney, Annie Dunham and Graham Smith – Won 23-9 

Away 

Jean Patterson, Karen Martin, Martin Spencer and Dominic McVittie – Won 18-15

Stephen Harris, Julie Hicks, Chelsea Spencer and Mathew Orrey – Lost 20-30 

Mixed County League Result 

On Saturday 28th October 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club travelled to Stamford in their next fixture of the mixed county league. Spalding pulled ahead early and were 11 up at five ends, which was extended to 30 shots by 15 ends before winning the match 90-54. Winning on three out of four rinks, Spalding won 12-2 on match points. Top winning rink was skipped by David Nunney, with Carole Nunney, George Deaton and Betty Deaton who won 27-8. Spalding are currently top of the mixed county league south after three games and 20 points ahead of Grantham in second but they have a game in hand. Next fixture is at home against Grantham on Sunday 19th November 2023. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Carole Nunney, George Deaton, Betty Deaton and David Nunney – Won 27-8 

Tony Westland, Sheila Chamberlain, Maggie Wheatley and Graham Wright – Won 30-14 

Ann Newbury, Petrine Ault, Mike Taylor and Anthony Cronin – Won 21-12 

Jan Sinclair, Tim Rogers, Maisie Belding and Mick Jennings – Lost 12-20 

Denny Cup and Yetton Trophy Teams Progress 

On Saturday 21st October 2023, Spalding Lightning progressed in both the Denny Cup and Yetton Trophy against Stamford and Sleaford respectively. 

Starting with the Denny Cup, a competition which Spalding Lightning won in 2022, Stamford were their first round opposition. Stamford were not phased and won the early exchanges as they took a narrow two shot lead at five ends. The match was still in the balance at the half way stage as the scores were level at ten ends. However, Spalding Lightning showed their class in the second half as they led 59-49 at 15 ends, which was extended to 77-56 at 18 ends before Stamford conceded with the scores at 95-58. Spalding Lightning won on three out of the four rinks but the main damage was done by the home rink skipped by Jordan Philpott, with Kevin Ekins, Ollie Jeapes and Simon Lilley who had an impressive 35-10 win. Making this rink win even more impressive was that they scored 20 shots without reply over the last six ends. Next up in the second round are Grantham on Saturday 4th November 2023.

Well done to everyone involved and all the best to Stamford in the Denny Plate for the rest of the season! 

Rink Scores 

Home 

Kevin Ekins, Ollie Jeapes, Simon Lilley and Jordan Philpott – Won 35-10 

Stephen Harris, Lewis Parnell, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Won 25-16 

Away 

Dan Mills, Martin Simpson, Martin Spencer and Dominic McVittie – Won 23-15 

Brian Martin, Nick Wilkie, Ean Morton and Tristan Morton – Lost 12-17 

Over to the Yetton Trophy where Spalding Lightning beat Sleaford. In a similar fashion to men in the Denny Cup, the match was still in the balance at the half way stage as the match was level at five ends before Spalding Lightning took a narrow 39-32 lead at ten ends. The lead was extended to 69-42 at 15 ends. Sleaford did show their battling qualities though as the lead was clawed back slightly to 79-58 at 18 ends before Spalding Lightning eventually won by ten shots, 84-74. Next up in the second round are Charnwood or Melton on Saturday 4th November 2023. 

Well done to everyone involved and all the best to Sleaford in the Yetton Plate for the rest of the season! 

Rink Scores 

Home 

Jean Patterson, Tracy Philpott, Ruby Hill and Chelsea Spencer – Won 25-17

Jan Sinclair, Petrine Ault, Carole Nunney and Maisie Belding – Won 23-22 

Away 

Ann Newbury, Sue Slayven, Christine Jackson and Maggie Wheatley – Won 19-12

Sheila Chamberlain, Carly Morris, Betty Deaton and Julie Hicks – Lost 17-23

Friendly Result 

On Saturday 21st October 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club enjoyed a friendly fixture at home against Peterborough. After nine ends, Spalding led by 20 shots which increased throughout the match before winning 134-70. Spalding won on five rinks and drew on one but the top winning rink was skipped by Paul Turner, with John Rawding and Sharon Ridley who won 32-5. Well done to everyone involved! 

Trudy Bates Result

On Thursday 19th October 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club had another good win in the Trudy Bates at home against Stamford. Spalding had a slow start but the ladies stepped up a gear to take the lead on aggregate and won on three out of the four rinks. Top winning rink was skipped by Betty Deaton, with Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley and Petrine Ault who won 30-10. Spalding’s next fixture in the Trudy Bates will be away at Grantham on Thursday 23rd November 2023. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley, Petrine Ault and Betty Deaton – Won 30-10

Jean Patterson, Sue Slayven, Christine Jackson and Maggie Wheatley – Won 26-11 

Sheila Chamberlain, Carole Nunney, Mandy Parkins and Julie Hicks – Won 20-16 

Jan Sinclair, Anita Phillips, Hazel Tokley and Maisie Belding – Lost 14-25 

Egham Trophy Result 

On Sunday 15th October 2023, Spalding Lightning started their Egham Trophy campaign with a comfortable win against Stamford. Spalding Lightning came agonisingly close to a place in the final in this competition last season as they lost on an extra end in the semi final against Huntingdon. Spalding Lightning started the stronger of the two teams as they were 26-9 up at five ends which was extended to 50-23 at ten ends and 78-34 at 15 ends. Stamford accepted defeat when Spalding Lightning were 44 shots ahead (88-44) when all rinks had played between 17 and 19 ends. Although winning on three rinks and drawing on one, the main damage was done by the home rink skipped by Graham Smith, with Kevin Ekins, Carole Nunney and Annie Dunham who won 34-9. Next up in the second round are Boston on Sunday 29th October 2023. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores

Home 

Kevin Ekins, Carole Nunney, Annie Dunham and Graham Smith – Won 34-9

Ruby Hill, Tracy Philpott, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott – Drew 14-14 

Away 

Stephen Harris, Julie Hicks, Chelsea Spencer and Mathew Orrey – Won 23-10 

Jean Patterson, Karen Martin, Ean Morton and Tristan Morton – Won 17-11

Men’s County League Result 

On Saturday 14th October 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club played their second fixture in the men’s county league away against Stamford “A”. The game was in the balance before Spalding pulled away in the end to win by ten shots (76-66). Spalding won on three rinks which meant that they won 12-2 on match points. Top winning rink was skipped by Martin Simpson, with Tony Westland, Terry Windsor and Nick Wilkie who won 23-14. Spalding are the early leaders of the men’s south county league after two ends. The next fixture is away against Boston “B” on Saturday 11thNovember 2023. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores

Tony Westland, Terry Windsor, Nick Wilkie and Martin Simpson – Won 23-14 

Mick Dolton, Oliver Stanley, Lewis Parnell and Dan Mills – Won 18-16 

Jack Wells, Gavin Staite, Ian Stafford and Brian Martin – Won 18-16 

Kevin Ekins, Tim Rogers, Anthony Cronin and David Nunney – Lost 17-20

World Championships Qualification for Annie 

Congratulations to Annie Dunham who has qualified to Potters Leisure Resort in the Ladies World Matchplay. On Sunday 8th October 2023, Annie travelled to Desborough (Maidenhead) to take part in the qualifiers which was full of many internationals from across the British Isles. Annie beat Jacqueline Henderson in straight sets (7-5, 8-2) before beating former Commonwealth Games gold medalist Sian Honnor also in straight sets (4-3, 7-1). In the final qualifying match, Annie played against good friend and fellow England international Kylie Jenkins from Egham. An excellent start saw Annie take the first set 11-2 but the second set saw Kylie 7-5 ahead going into the nail biting final end. Annie held her nerve to score two shots, win the match 1.5-0.5 and book her place in the Ladies World Matchplay at Potters Leisure Resort in January 2024. It does not get any easier for Annie though as she will play defending and five time champion, Katherine Rednall but whatever the result, it will certainly be a match not to be missed. Annie will also partner Scotland’s David Gourlay in the World Mixed Pairs. Well done Annie!

Top Club Result 

On Sunday 8th October 2023, Spalding Lightning had another comfortable mixed top club win at home against Peterborough. Despite a narrow defeat in the triples, Spalding Lightning secured wins in both singles, pairs and fours to win 12-4 on match points. Next up in the third round is an away trip to Horncastle or Skegness on Sunday 22nd October 2023. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Ladies Singles – Chelsea Spencer – Won 21-15

Men’s Singles – Stephen Harris – Won 21-9

Pairs – Louise Harris and Martin Spencer – Won 21-10

Triples – Ruby Hill, Ean Morton and Jordan Philpott – Lost 9-11

Fours – Jean Patterson, Karen Martin, Kevin Ekins and Graham Smith – Won 22-10

County Mixed League Result 

On Sunday 8th October 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club hosted Boston in the county mixed league. Spalding started well and at five ends, were 16 shots up but by 15 ends, Boston had reduced the deficit to only six. Spalding battled hard until the end, winning on two rinks and drawing on one. Spalding won the overall aggregate 85-78 which resulted in an 11-3 match result. Top winning rink was skipped by David Nunney, with Sue Jackson, Carole Nunney and Mike Taylor who won 22-9. Spalding’s third fixture of the season in the mixed league is away at Stamford on Saturday 28th October 2023. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Sue Jackson, Carole Nunney, Mike Taylor and David Nunney – Won 22-9 

Jan Sinclair, Maisie Belding, Tim Rogers and Mick Jennings – Won 24-18 

Ann Newbury, Petrine Ault, Mick Dolton and Anthony Cronin – Drew 21-21 

Tony Westland, Sue Slayven, Maggie Wheatley and Graham Wright – Lost 18-30 

Friendly Result 

On Saturday 7th October 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club enjoyed a friendly fixture against Boston. After nine ends, Spalding were 22 shots ahead at 53-31 however, Boston fought back slightly second half before Spalding eventually won 112-99. Spalding won on three rinks, lost on two and drew on one but the top winning rink was skipped by Maggie Wheatley, with Martin Cox and Doris Rawding. 

Trudy Bates Result 

On Thursday 5th October 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s ladies started their Trudy Bates campaign in fine form at home against Boston. A competition which Spalding won last season, their line up differed somewhat due to various reasons as they welcomed Anita Phillips and Hazel Tokley into the team and a new playing position for Petrine Ault. Spalding stamped their authority from the outset and won on all rinks to secure all 14 available match points and an overall aggregate score of 102-60. Next up for the ladies in the Trudy Bates is another home game against Stamford on Thursday 19th October 2023. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores

Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley, Petrine Ault and Betty Deaton – Won 31-7 

Sheila Chamberlain, Carole Nunney, Mandy Parkins and Julie Hicks – Won 23-12 

Jean Patterson, Sue Slayven, Chris Jackson and Maggie Wheatley – Won 25-19 

Jan Sinclair, Anita Phillips, Hazel Tokley and Maisie Belding – Won 23-22 

Top Club Result 

On Sunday 1st October 2023, Spalding Lightning started their mixed top club campaign with a comfortable away win at Sleaford. Spalding Lightning, who lost in the national final of this competition last season, were certainly helped by their singles players with an accumulative score of 42-10 which pretty much ensured that the match would go in Spalding Lightning’s favour should shots be the deciding factor. However, with further wins in the pairs, triples and fours, Spalding Lightning won in all disciplines, won the match 16-0 and booked their place in the second round where they will play Peterborough at home on Sunday 8th October 2023. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Ladies Singles – Chelsea Spencer – Won 21-4

Men’s Singles – Stephen Harris – Won 21-6 

Pairs – Annie Dunham and Martin Spencer – Won 16-12 

Triples – Ruby Hill, Graham Smith and Jordan Philpott – Won 20-9 

Fours – Jean Patterson, Karen Martin, Ean Morton and Tristan Morton – Won 18-12 

Men’s County League Result 

On Saturday 30th September 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s men’s county league team started the season with a good 12-2 (77-59) win at home against Boston “A”. Spalding won on three out of the four rinks however, top winning rink was skipped by David Nunney, with Jack Wells, Mick Dolton and Anthony Cronin who won 23-10. Spalding’s next fixture is away against Stamford “A” on Saturday 14th October 2023. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Jack Wells, Mick Dolton, Anthony Cronin and David Nunney – Won 23-10 

Max Butters, Kevin Puttrell, Ian Stafford and Ean Morton – Won 20-16 

Tony Westland, George Almey, James Teasdale and Dan Mills – Won 17-13 

Nathan Puttrell, Tim Rogers, Nick Wilkie and Tristan Morton – Lost 17-20 

Over 60s County League Result 

On Thursday 28th September 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s over 60s county league team had a great start to the season with a comfortable 14-0 (91-57) win at home against Boston “B”. Spalding won on all four rinks, but top winning rink was skipped by Terry Windsor, with Tony Westland, Nigel Strickson and Ian Stafford who had an impressive 27-10 win. Next fixture is away at Sleaford on Monday 9th October 2023. Well done to everyone involved! 

Mixed County League Result 

On Sunday 24th September 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s mixed county league team started their season with an away match at Skegness. Spalding were ahead from the start and at ten ends, were eight shots ahead. The lead was extended throughout the match before a final 84-65 win. Spalding won on three out of the four rinks, but top winning rink was skipped by Mick Jennings, with Jan Sinclair, Tim Rogers and Maisie Belding who won 27-10. Maisie was also captain for the day. Spalding’s next fixture is at home against Boston on Sunday 8th October 2023. Well done to everyone involved! 

Club Finals Weekend 

Between Friday 28th and Sunday 30th April 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club hosted their club finals weekend. The weekend started with the blue ribbon events as Chelsea Spencer beat Sandra Hammond 21-5 in the ladies singles final and Dominic McVittie beat Graham Smith 21-18 in the men’s singles final. Chelsea and Dominic will represent Spalding in the national champion of champions for the 2023/24 season. 

The finals were followed by a trophy presentation on Sunday evening for all leagues and competitions throughout the season. 

Well done to all winners and runners up over the weekend! 

A full list of club finals results are as follows:

Men’s Singles - Dominic McVittie beat Graham Smith 21-18 

Men’s Pairs - Dan Mills and Dominic McVittie beat Paul Turner and Martin Simpson 20-8

Men’s Triples - Martin Spencer, Martin Simpson and Dominic McVittie beat Brian Martin, Dan Mills and Jordan Philpott 19-7 

Men’s Fours - Jack Wells, Oliver Stanley, Kevin Ekins and Jordan Philpott beat Andy Dunham, Martin Simpson, Harry Mycock and Dominic McVittie 21-20 

Ladies Singles - Chelsea Spencer beat Sandra Hammond 21-5 

Ladies Pairs - Ann Newbury and Maggie Wheatley beat Carole Nunney and Julie Hicks 17-10 

Ladies Triples - Ann Newbury, Lily Drawbridge and Maggie Wheatley beat Ruby Hill, Trish Stafford and Tracy Philpott 24-18 

Ladies Fours - Carole Nunney, Michelle Billingsley, Betty Deaton and Julie Hicks beat Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault, Tracy Philpott and Karen Martin 23-3 

Ladies Drawn Pairs - Sue Slayven and Sue Jackson beat Jenny Wakefield and Anita Phillips 24-13 

Mixed Pairs - Jean Patterson and Dominic McVittie beat Paul Turner and Maggie Wheatley 28-6 

Mixed Fours - Arthur Brinkman, Jenny Wakefield, Dee Brinkman and Eric Wakefield beat Jean Patterson, Mick Dolton, Betty Deaton and Cliff Searson 20-11 

Rabbits Singles - Eric Wakefield beat Gavin Staite 21-20 

Over 60s Singles - Nick Wilkie beat Sandra Hammond 21-9 

101 Singles - Dan Mills beat Dominic McVittie 104-86 

101 Pairs - Graham Smith and Dominic McVittie beat Lewis and Dale Parnell 88-22

Family Pairs - Ollie and Michael Jeapes beat John and James Teesdale 31-16

Veteran Pairs - Sandra Hammond and Chris Warboys beat Mick Dolton and Ian Stafford 22-7

Under 25 Singles - Jack Wells beat George Almey 2-1 (11-2, 4-8, 2-0) 

Junior Singles - Max Butters beat Oliver Stanley 21-20

Junior Pairs - Oliver Stanley and Max Butters beat Oliver Jownally and Aidan Brickles 18-17

Junior Triples - Oliver Jownally, Max Butters and Oliver Stanley beat Jessica Butters, Ruby Mycock and Nathan Puttrell 25-13 

Junior Fours - Dylan Creamer, George Almey, Max Butters and Oliver Stanley beat Jessica Butters, Ruby Mycock, Jack Wells and Nathan Puttrell 19-13 

Quintet - Graham Hicks, Brian Hodges, Carole Nunney, Oliver Stanley and Tony Westland 

County Finals Round Up 

On Saturday 22nd April 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club were the proud hosts of the Lincolnshire county finals. Spalding were well represented throughout the day and enjoyed a number of successes. 

In the morning session, Ruby Hill won the ladies county singles with a very one sided 21-1 win against Sandra Tebbs from Boston. Graham Smith also won the county men’s singles title, beating Paul Oke from Sleaford 21-12. Ruby won the title for the second time whilst Graham won the title for a record sixth time. 

The afternoon session saw two more wins for Spalding as Dominic McVittie retained his county sets singles title and Ruby was joined by Chelsea Spencer to win the ladies county pairs. Dominic beat Richard Ashton from Lincoln by the narrowest of margins as Dominic was required to draw shot with his last bowl to win the match on the deciding end of the tie break. Ruby and Chelsea made life easy for themselves with a 21-6 win against Brenda Rice and Amanda Forty from Skegness to win the title for the third time. 

The third and final evening session saw plenty of home support. Ruby won her third title of the day with a 21-18 win against club mate Louise Harris in the ladies under 25 singles final, Dominic was joined by Jean Patterson in the mixed pairs where they beat Rene Walker and Colin Barks from Dunholme, 21-6 and the crowd certainly got behind Jack Wells as he won the county under 18 singles title with a straight sets win (9-1, 6-2) against Owen Aspinall from Stamford. The day was made extra special as Jean and Jack won their first county titles. 

The event was well supported by family and friends and well done to everyone involved! 

EIBA Celebration Match 

On Sunday 16th April 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club continued their 50th anniversary celebrations with a friendly match against the English Indoor Bowling Association (EIBA). The EIBA won the match by seven shots (98-91) but everyone enjoyed their day which included a two course meal. Spalding’s top winning rink was skipped by Tim Rogers, with Petrine Ault, Roger Perkins and Julie Hicks who won 19-6. 

All non-playing life members were invited to attend and most did but those who didn’t sent their best wishes. Immediate Past President, President and Senior Vice President of the EIBA all attended. 

Players from the EIBA team travelled to play from eleven different counties, including one person coming all the way from the Isle of Wight. Thank you to everyone for making the effort to help us celebrate our 50th anniversary! 

Ladies County Semi Finals 

On Sunday 16th April 2023, Horncastle Indoor Bowls Club hosted the ladies county semi finals and Spalding did have some success throughout the day. 

In the pairs, Ruby Hill and Chelsea Spencer beat Mary Johnson and Olive Wells from Horncastle, 21-12 to book their place in the final. Ruby had a busy day as she followed the pairs with wins in the semi final of the singles and under 25 singles against Debbie McBride from Scunthorpe and Kathryn Rockall from Boston respectively, both 21-8. 

Spalding will be the proud hosts of the joint men’s, ladies and mixed county finals on Saturday 22nd April 2023. Please come and show your support! 

Trudy Bates Glory 

On Tuesday 11th April 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s ladies travelled to Horncastle to play in the final of the Trudy Bates competition. Spalding won the southern section of the Trudy Bates county league and played Lincoln who won the north. Spalding went into the final as underdogs as Lincoln had lifted the trophy for the last four seasons. 

Spalding started the better of the two teams and never looked back as they were in front from the outset. There was a small lapse about halfway but Spalding picked up 13 shots on one end to ensure the result was never in doubt. Spalding won by 32 shots (91-59) and the win was made even more impressive by winning on all four rinks in the final. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Freda Lyon, Jan Sinclair, Sandra Hammond and Maisie Belding – Won 28-15 

Ann Newbury, Sue Slayven, Michelle Billingsley and Betty Deaton – Won 25-12 

Sheila Chamberlain, Carole Nunney, Mandy Parkin and Julie Hicks – Won 17-13 

Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault, Freda Huggins and Maggie Wheatley – Won 21-19

County Semi Finals Day 

On Sunday 3rd April 2023, Sleaford Indoor Bowls Club hosted the Lincolnshire men’s and mixed county semi finals. Spalding Lightning had representatives in a number of competitions and are now in three county finals. Graham Smith will play Paul Oke from Sleaford in the singles final, Dominic McVittie continues the defence of his sets singles title and will play Richard Ashton from Lincoln in the final and Dominic will be joined by Jean Patterson in the mixed pairs final. 

Also on the county competition scene, the under 18s playoffs were played at Louth Indoor Bowls Club on Saturday. Spalding’s Jack Wells and George Almey got to the semi-final and well done to Jack for making it through to the final which will be played on county finals day. 

Lincolnshire county finals are being held at Spalding on Saturday 22nd April 2023 and will be joined with the ladies. Please come and show your support for an excellent day of bowls! 

Super Saturday for Spalding Bowlers at National Championships 

On Saturday 2nd April 2023, Spalding was well represented at the national championships at Nottingham.

On Saturday morning, Spalding Lightning played against Exonia in the under 30s double triples competition. In a high quality match where all twelve players have played some form of international bowls in their career, Spalding Lightning were up against it at the start before scoring ten shots across the two rinks on one end to take control of the match and in the end won comfortably 43-25. Ollie Jeapes, Chelsea Spencer and Dominic McVittie won 20-8 and Ruby Hill, Stephen Harris and Jordan Philpott won 23-17. The win booked their place in the final that evening where they would play Huntingdon who beat Ipswich in the semi-final. 

Before the under 30s final, it was the turn of the ladies in the Atherley Trophy where Lincolnshire played Dorset. Players from Spalding included Ruby and Chelsea, plus Jean Patterson, Betty Deaton, Ann Newbury and county president Maisie Belding. Lincolnshire were ten times winners of the competition and they soon made it eleven with a 125-108 final victory. Dorset actually went in front late on but the ladies from Lincolnshire held their nerve to finish the match strongly and lift the title. Jean, Betty, Ruby and Chelsea played as an all Spalding rink and was actually top winning rink with a 29-12 win. Maisie was number two in a rink which won 20-16 but Ann led a rink which lost narrowly 19-23. It was a proud moment for Maisie as county president to lift the trophy. 

There was no time to celebrate though for Ruby and Chelsea as they were straight back on for their third and final game of the day in the under 30s final against Huntingdon. The lead changed hands on more than one occasion and the crowd were certainly treated to an entertaining match. Huntingdon were defending champions but Spalding Lightning finished the stronger of the two teams to win by seven shots, 36-29. Ollie, Chelsea and Dominic won 16-11 and Ruby, Stephen and Jordan won 20-18. Spalding lifted the title for a third time having last won it back in 2010 when it was played in a double rink format. 

Well done to everyone involved for an amazing day for club and county! 

Earlier in the week, Spalding Lightning also had excellent runs in the ladies singles and men’s pairs. In the ladies singles, Ruby Hill had wins against Katy Baxter from Hornsea, 21-13 and fellow senior international Laura Holden from Clevedon, 21-11 before losing in the semi-final against eventual winner Rebecca McMillan from St. Andrews, 12-21. In the men’s pairs, Andy Dunham and Dominic McVittie went one better and lost in the final. Andy and Dominic started with a comfortable win against Shaun Jones and Tom Holmes from Malvern Hills, 19-7 before beating 2017 champions Lewis Baker and Nicky Brett from Huntingdon, 19-11. In the semi-final, they beat Hornsea’s Jack Bird and Matthew Bell, 19-15. The final was never going to be easy against Devon’s Louis Ridout and Sam Tolchard who went on to lift the title for the second time. 

Mixed Top Club Final Disappointment For Spalding Lightning 

Over the weekend of Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th March 2023, Spalding Lightning competed at the national mixed top club finals at Nottingham Indoor Bowls Club. The last four consisted of four extremely strong teams and Spalding Lightning were hoping to lift the trophy for a third time after winning the title in 2015 and 2020. 

On Saturday, Spalding Lightning’s semi-final opponents were four time winners from Swale. This was an extremely exciting match which went down to the wire. The singles disciplines were shared as Chelsea Spencer won the ladies singles but Swale fought back to win the men’s singles. Spalding Lightning won the pairs but lost the fours which meant the tie would be decided by the triples discipline. Spalding Lightning’s Ruby Hill, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott went into the last end 14-13 up and held their nerve well to win 15-13 and help book a place in the final the following morning. 

On Sunday, Spalding Lightning’s opposition were defending champions from Exonia who beat Norfolk in their semi-final in equally exciting fashion. Unfortunately, Spalding Lightning did not start the better of the two teams as Exonia won both singles disciplines which meant that Spalding Lightning needed to either win all three of the remaining disciplines or two out of the three and the overall aggregate to win the title. They did win the pairs and fours but lost the triples which meant that the title was decided on shots which Exonia won 83-72. 

A special thanks to our new kit sponsors, Bridgestone Tyres and Roythornes Solicitors. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Semi-Final 

Ladies Singles – Chelsea Spencer – Won 21-17 

Men’s Singles – Stephen Harris – Lost 12-21 

Pairs – Annie Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Won 23-18 

Triples – Ruby Hill, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott – Won 15-13

Fours - Jean Patterson, Karen Martin, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Lost 11-18 

Final

Ladies Singles – Chelsea Spencer – Lost 8-21

Men’s Singles – Stephen Harris – Lost 16-21 

Pairs – Annie Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Won 17-8

Triples – Ruby Hill, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott – Lost 9-20

Fours - Jean Patterson, Karen Martin, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Won 22-13 

Men’s County League Result 

On Sunday 26th March 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club travelled away to Stamford “A” in their final fixture of the men’s county league. Spalding found it tough as they only won on one rink which was skipped by Dan Mills, with Jack Wells, Oliver Stanley and Lewis Parnell who won 24-9. Stamford “A” won on the other three rinks which meant that they secured 12 of the available match points and won the southern section of the men’s county league and book their place in the final. 

Well played to Stamford and all the best for the rest of the season! 

Rink Scores 

Jack Wells, Oliver Stanley, Lewis Parnell and Dan Mills – Won 24-9

Eric Wakefield, Stuart Callaby, Gavin Staite and Terry Windsor – Lost 15-23 

Tony Westland, Robin Roffe, Anthony Cronin and Martin Simpson – Lost 10-19

Nick Wilkie, George Almey, Nathan Puttrell and Ian Stafford – Lost 8-32 

Over 60s County League Result 

On Thursday 23rd March 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club played Boston “A” at home in the over 60s county league. Spalding won on three of the four rinks and won the aggregate by 19 shots (88-69). This meant that Spalding on 12-2 on match points. Top winning rink was skipped by Graham Wright, with Dave Overton, George Deaton and Robin Roffe who won 27-14. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

D. Overton, G. Deaton, R. Roffe and G. Wright – Won 27-14 

B. Hodges, R. West, R. Billingsley and M. Jennings – Won 22-16 

M. Stanley, A. Tokley, T. Windsor and D. Amess – Won 22-17 

T. Westland, I. Stafford, D. Nunney and G. Hicks – Lost 17-22 

50 England Caps For Dawes

Between Thursday 16th and Saturday 18th March 2023, Stephen Harris, Graham Smith and Mark Dawes represented England in the men’s international series at Abbeyview Indoor Bowls Club in Dunfermline, Scotland. Stephen led a rink with newly crowned British Isles singles champion, Martin Puckett (Dorchester), Les Gillett (Melton) and skipped by Greg Harlow (City of Ely). Mark skipped his own rink with new cap, Jonny Forcer (Hartlepool), Graham and Robert Paxton (Exonia). This was an extra special series for Mark as he reached the milestone of 50 caps which is made even more impressive as this takes 17 years of commitment to representing your country. 

In the first match of the series, England played Wales on Thursday. England were certainly favourites going into the game having won a record seven consecutive men’s international series and this showed as England were already 43-17 ahead at five ends. The scores were 75-30 and 107-53 at 10 and 15 ends respectively before England won by 55 shots (146-91). Graham and Mark enjoyed a 29-15 rink win but Stephen’s rink narrowly lost by two shots, 20-22. In the second session of the day, Scotland beat Ireland 125-102. 

On Friday morning, England played a spirited Ireland team on St. Patrick’s Day. Ireland actually started the better of the two teams and were seven shots ahead at five ends. England soon showed their class across the six rinks and were 69-46 up at ten ends, 96-66 up at 15 ends and 112-85 at 18 ends. England eventually won by 26 shots (126-100). England won on five of the six rinks with Graham and Mark winning 21-13 and Stephen’s rink bouncing back well to also win 21-13. In the second session on Friday, Scotland beat Wales 167-94 which set up a winner takes all clash between England and Scotland on Saturday. 

Before the clash of the two auld enemies, Ireland beat Wales 114-112. The home crowd were in fine voice which created an electric atmosphere. The match was closely contested as expected and England took a narrow lead at five ends (24-22). Scotland bounced back well and were 54-48 up at ten ends which was extended to 88-74 at 15 ends. England showed their fighting qualities and the deficit was reduced as close as two shots at one stage before Scotland pulled away at the end and won by 15 shots, 119-104. Stephen’s rink won 21-15 against Alex Marshall MBE but Graham and Mark’s rink went down 9-20. 

Scotland stopped England’s record run and lifted the Hilton Trophy for the first time since 2014. 

Trudy Bates Result 

On Thursday 16th March 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s ladies had a good win in their final league fixture of the Trudy Bates at home against Skegness. Spalding won on all rinks and won the aggregate by 63 shots (113-50) which meant that they secured all 14 available match points. Top winning rink was skipped by Maggie Wheatley, with Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault and Freda Huggins who won 32-9. 

This win puts Spalding 36 points ahead of Boston at the top of the county south division and in a good position to qualify for the county final however, Spalding have played all their fixtures and Boston still have three to play, being home and away against Stamford and away at Grantham. 

Well done to everyone involved on a great season! 

Rink Scores 

Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault, Freda Huggins and Maggie Wheatley – Won 32-9

Ann Newbury, Sue Slayven, Michelle Billingsley and Betty Deaton – Won 33-14 

Freda Lyon, Jan Sinclair, Christine Jackson and Maisie Belding – Won 26-12 

Sheila Chamberlain, Carole Nunney, Mandy Parkin and Julie Hicks – Won 22-15 

Spalding Girls Help England To International Series Win 

Over the weekend of Friday 10th and Sunday 12th March 2023, Ruby Hill, Chelsea Spencer and Annie Dunham represented England in the ladies international series at Abbeyview Indoor Bowls Club in Dunfermline, Scotland. Ruby led a rink with Laura Holden (Clevedon), Rebecca Willgress (Norfolk) and skipped by Michelle Coleman (St. Neots). Chelsea skipped her own rink with Cassidy Hampton (Exonia), Chloe Brett (Huntingdon) and Anna Chalk (Lakenheath) whilst Annie also skipped her own rink with Devon Cooper (Hartlepool), Kylie Jenkins (Egham) and team captain, Sandy Hazell (Swale). 

In the first match of the series, England played Wales on Friday. England were favourites going into the game but Wales certainly started the better of the two teams and were 39-21 up at five ends. England narrowed the deficit to 69-56 at ten ends and were only two behind (92-90) by 15 ends. England went in front for the first time at 18 ends at 105-103 and after a tense final few ends, England won by six shots (124-118). Chelsea and Ruby enjoyed rink wins, 23-16 and 19-16 respectively. Although Annie’s rink went down 15-29, she certainly contributed to the team win. In the second session on Friday, Scotland beat Ireland 143-88. 

On Saturday morning, England played Ireland and fortunately, the match was won in a much more comfortable fashion. England stamped their authority from the outset and were 27-19 up at five ends. The lead was extended to 68-36 at ten ends, 99-54 at 15 ends and 121-66 at 18 ends. England eventually won comfortably, 137-78. Chelsea (24-9), Annie (29-14) and Ruby (18-9) all enjoyed rink wins. In the second session on Saturday, Scotland beat Wales 153-86 which set up a winner takes all clash between the two auld enemies on Sunday. 

Before the main event, Wales beat Ireland 117-94 which warmed up the crowd who were treated to a classic encounter between England and Scotland. The home team who were also defending champions, started the better of the two teams and were 36-17 up at five ends. England battled hard and were only 54-46 at ten ends and 87-82 behind at 15 ends. Scotland extended the lead to 107-95 at 18 ends but England were not willing to give up without a fight and won the final three ends 22-7 to win the match by three shots, 117-114. Chelsea enjoyed another rink win (21-13) to come home with three rink wins from three, Annie’s rink won 23-18 and although Ruby’s rink lost 10-22, all members of the team played their part in an epic victory. 

England regained the Clara Johns Trophy after Scotland won in Belfast last time out. To top off an already amazing weekend, Ruby was voted England’s player of the series. Well done to everyone involved! 

Men’s County League Result 

On Saturday 11th March 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club hosted Boston “A” in the men’s county league. Spalding won on two rinks and lost on two but won the overall match by nine shots, 82-73 and 10-4 on match points. Top winning rink was skipped by Brian Martin, with Jack Wells, Paul Turner and James Teesdale who won 28-13. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Jack Wells, Paul Turner, James Teesdale and Brian Martin – Won 28-13 

Eric Wakefield, George Almey, Gavin Staite and Ian Stafford – Won 22-14 

Kevin Ekins, Oliver Stanley, Robin Roffe and Dan Mills – Lost 17-21 

Tony Westland, Tim Rogers, Anthony Cronin and David Nunney – Lost 15-25 

Egham Trophy Extra End Heartache 

On Sunday 5th March 2023, Spalding Lightning’s mixed team played Huntingdon in the national semi final of the Egham Trophy. Spalding Lightning started the better of the two teams and were 16-15 up at five ends and 33-23 up by ten ends but Huntingdon battled back well and were ahead by 18 ends. Spalding Lightning showed their own battling skills to force an extra end which was drawn before the game and played at Huntingdon by Dominic McVittie’s rink. After it was killed on two occasions, Huntingdon won the extra end and the match, 73-72 to book their place in the national final. Well played to Huntingdon and all the best in the final! 

Rink Scores 

Home 

Jean Patterson, Rebecca Simpson, Simon Lilley and Graham Smith – Won 23-11 

Ruby Hill, Tracy Philpott, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott – Lost 16-21 

Away 

Stephen Harris, Karen Martin, Chelsea Spencer and Mathew Orrey – Won 20-16 

Kevin Ekins, Louise Harris, Annie Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Lost 13-24 

Mixed League Result 

On Saturday 4th March 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club had a good win in the county mixed league away at Grantham. Winning on two rinks and losing on two, Spalding won 93-67 and 10-4 on match points. Top winning rink was skipped by Anthony Cronin, with Christine Williamson, Petrine Ault and Mick Dolton who had an impressive 33-10 rink win. That does keep Spalding top of the county south mixed division by 15 shots but Boston has their final two games left to play. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

C. Williamson, P. Ault, M. Dolton and A. Cronin – Won 33-10

C. Nunney, F. Huggins, G. Deaton and D. Nunney – Won 28-11 

J. Sinclair, G. Haydon, T. Rogers and M. Jennings – Lost 17-24 

M. Wheatley, D. Rawlins, R. Roffe and G. Wright – Lost 15-22 

Mason Trophy Result 

On Friday 3rd March 2023, Spalding Lightning’s ladies played defending champions Nottingham in the Mason Trophy. At the halfway stage, Spalding Lightning were one shot ahead but by 15 ends, Nottingham had edged in front by seven shots. Nottingham eventually won by nine shots (26-35) and progress to the quarter final. Well played to Nottingham and all the best for the rest of the competition. 

Rink Scores 

Home 

Jean Patterson, Jan Sinclair, Sandra Hammond and Maisie Belding – Lost 14-19 

Away 

Ann Newbury, Carole Nunney, Petrine Ault and Julie Hicks – Lost 12-16 

Men’s County League Result 

On Saturday 25th February 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s men’s county league team travelled to Grantham and had a tough time as they lost by 32 shots (47-79). Spalding did manage to win on one rink which meant that the overall match score was 12-2 in the home team’s favour. Spalding’s winning rink was skipped by Brian Martin, with Jack Wells, Oliver Stanley and James Teesdale who won 18-13. Spalding has two fixtures left this season, being at home against Boston “A” on Saturday 11th March 2023 and away against Stamford “A” on Sunday 26th March 2023.

Well played to Grantham and all the best for the rest of the season! 

Rink Scores 

Jack Wells, Oliver Stanley, James Teesdale and Brian Martin – Won 18-13 

Tony Westland, Paul Turner, Anthony Cronin and David Nunney – Lost 12-21 

Mick Dolton, Tim Rogers, Martin Simpson and Dan Mills – Lost 9-22

Kevin Ekins, George Almey, Nathan Puttrell and Graham Hicks – Lost 8-23 

Trudy Bates Result 

On Thursday 23rd February 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s ladies continued their fight for the top spot of the Trudy Bates county south division with a comprehensive win at home against Grantham. Spalding started well and never let the travelling team settle as Spalding won on all rinks and 109-35 on aggregate. Spalding also collected the maximum 14 available match points. Top winning rink was skipped by Julie Hicks, with Sheila Chamberlain, Carole Nunney and Mandy Parkin who won 31-5. Spalding’s last match of the county south division will be a home fixture against Skegness on Thursday 16th March 2023 where a win will be needed to keep pressure on Boston who are currently second in the division. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Sheila Chamberlain, Carole Nunney, Mandy Parkin and Julie Hicks – Won 31-5

Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault, Freda Huggins and Maggie Wheatley – Won 27-9 

Freda Lyon, Jan Sinclair, Sandra Hammond and Maisie Belding – Won 25-9 

Ann Newbury, Sue Slayven, Michelle Billingsley and Betty Deaton – Won 26-12

Mixed League Result 

On Sunday 19th February 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s county mixed league team had a good win away at Stamford in their penultimate game of the season. Winning on two rinks and losing on two, Spalding won a closely contested match by eleven shots, 77-66 and won 10-4 on match points. Top winning rink was skipped by David Nunney, with Carole Nunney, George Deaton and Betty Deaton who enjoyed a good 28-9 rink win. This win certainly puts Spalding in with a chance of reaching the county final as they top the table by nine points but Skegness and Boston have games in hand in second and third place in the county south division. Spalding’s final fixture will be away at Grantham on Saturday 4th March 2023. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Carole Nunney, George Deaton, Betty Deaton and David Nunney – Won 28-9

Ann Newbury, Petrine Ault, Mick Dolton and Anthony Cronin – Won 21-13 

Jan Sinclair, Sheila Chamberlain, Tim Rogers and Mick Jennings – Lost 15-19 

Tony Westland, Sue Slayven, Maggie Wheatley and Graham Wright – Lost 13-25 

County Sets Singles Playoffs 

On Saturday 18th February 2023, Louth & District Indoor Bowls Club hosted the Lincolnshire county sets singles playoffs. Spalding’s representatives were Dominic McVittie, Kevin Ekins, Ruby Hill, Jordan Philpott and Dan Mills. 

With wins against Alex Tomlin from Boston (2-0), Richard Allam from Stamford (2-1) and Adrian Field from Boston (1.5-0.5), Dominic continues his title defence and has qualified for the county semi-final where he will play John Holroyd from Stamford. The other semi-final will be contested between Paul Oke from Sleaford and Richard Ashton from Lincoln. County semi-finals are on Sunday 2nd April 2023 at Sleaford. 

Unfortunately, Kevin Ekins lost 2-0 against Adrian Field and Dan Mills lost 2-0 against Alan Dent Jnr from Louth, both in the last 32. Ruby Hill and Jordan Philpott both got to the quarter final but lost 2-1 against Richard Ashton and 1.5-0.5 against John Holroyd respectively. 

Well done though to Dominic and all the best for the rest of the competition! 

Mason Trophy Report 

On Friday 17th February 2023, Spalding Lightning’s ladies progressed to the last 16 of the Mason Trophy with an extra end win against Charnwood. The Mason Trophy is an over 60s competition played on a double rink basis, one rink at home, one away. Spalding Lightning’s away rink started slowly but the overall scores were level (20-20) at ten ends. The home rink skipped by Maisie Belding had a good 19-11 rink win whilst Julie Hick’s away rink were only six shots adrift going into the last end which meant that they were defending two shots to secure a place in the next round. Unfortunately, Spalding Lightning dropped two shots which meant that the scores were tied and an extra end was required to decide the outcome of the match. This was played at Spalding and was nerve racking for both players and spectators. Jean Patterson promptly played her first bowl within inches of the jack and it stayed that way to book Spalding Lightning’s place in the next round where they will play Nottingham on Friday 3rd March 2023. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Home Rink 

Jean Patterson, Jan Sinclair, Sandra Hammond and Maisie Belding – Won 20-11 (after extra end) 

Away Rink 

Ann Newbury, Carole Nunney, Betty Deaton and Julie Hicks – Lost 12-20 

Ladies Under 25 International Series

Over the weekend of Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th February 2023, Spalding’s Ruby Hill and the rest of the England under 25 team travelled to Ffrith Indoor Bowls Club in Wales for the ladies under 25 international series. Ruby played number three in a rink skipped by captain Rachel Tremlett (St. Neots), with Leah Bamford (Folkestone) and Natalie Harrison (Swale) at the front end. 

On Saturday, England started with an impressive 42 shot win against the hosts, Wales. England flew out of the blocks and were 35-8 up at five ends. Wales never really got a foothold into the game as England won 94-52. In the afternoon, England backed up their morning performance with a comfortable 60 shot win against Ireland. England were dominant throughout the match and were always extending their lead before winning 110-50. Ruby’s rink certainly contributed with a 22-13 win against Wales and an incredible 37-9 rink win against Ireland. 

With Scotland also beating both Ireland (108-47) and Wales (92-49), this set up a winner takes all clash between England and Scotland on Sunday. Unfortunately, it wasn’t to be for the England girls as Scotland proved too strong on the day. Scotland won on all four rinks and by 35 shots overall, 90-55. Scotland stopped a run of four successive England series wins. 

Although we do not have any club representation in the men’s England under 25 team next week in Ireland, we have plenty of representation in both the men’s and ladies international series in Scotland next month. 

Well done and good luck to everyone involved! 

Men’s County Singles Playoffs 

On Sunday 5th February 2023, Lincoln & District Indoor Bowls Club hosted the men’s county singles playoffs. Spalding’s qualifiers were Martin Spencer, Graham Smith, Dominic McVittie, Jordan Philpott and Kevin Ekins. 

After winning three games, Martin and Graham progressed to the semi finals. Martin had wins against Dennis Skayman (Lincoln) 21-6, Colin Barks (Dunholme) 21-17 and Jake Meakins (Grantham) 21-12 whilst Graham beat Jeff Pitt (Stamford) 21-3, Jordan 21-11 and Dominic 21-6. Dominic had already beat Kevin in the last 32 earlier in the day 21-15. 

In the semi final, Martin will play Sleaford’s Paul Oke whilst Graham will play Boston’s Adrian Field. County semi finals day will take place at Sleaford on Sunday 2nd April 2023. Well done and good luck to Martin and Graham! 

Men’s County League Result 

On Sunday 5th February 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s men’s county league team had a comfortable win at home against Stamford “B”. Spalding were in control from the outset, won on three of the four rinks and the aggregate score was 103-44. Spalding also secured 12 of the 14 available match points. Top winning rink was skipped by Dan Mills, with Mick Dolton, Eric Wakefield and Mike Robertson who had an impressive 33-9 rink win. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores

Mick Dolton, Eric Wakefield, Mike Robertson and Dan Mills – Won 33-9

Jack Wells, Oliver Stanley, James Teesdale and Brian Martin – Won 28-7

Nick Wilkie, George Almey, Nathan Puttrell and Martin Simpson – Won 30-11

Tony Westland, Paul Turner, Anthony Cronin and David Nunney – Lost 12-17 

Under 30s Double Triples Result 

On Saturday 4th February 2023, Spalding Lightning progressed to the national semi final in the under 30s double triples competition with a comprehensive quarter final win against South Shields Vipers. The match was played at the neutral venue of New Earswick IBC and with both rinks flying out of the blocks, South Shields Vipers conceded with one rink played 11 ends and the other rink only 10 ends. Spalding Lightning won by 27 shots, 35-8 and will now play Exonia in the semi final which will take place at the national championships on Saturday 1st April 2023 at Nottingham. Well done and good luck to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Ollie Jeapes, Ruby Hill and Dominic McVittie – Won 18-3

Dan Mills, Stephen Harris and Jordan Philpott – Won 17-5

Trudy Bates Result 

On Thursday 2nd April 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s ladies returned to form from last week’s defeat with a win away at Boston in the southern section of the county Trudy Bates league. Spalding started well, never looked back and were always in front on aggregate, eventually winning by 20 shots, 87-67. Winning on two rinks and losing on two, Spalding won 10-4 on match points. This win puts Spalding 8 points ahead of Boston at the top of the league but Boston have a game in hand. Next up will a home game against Grantham on Thursday 23rd February 2023. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Ann Newbury, Sue Slayven, Freda Huggins and Betty Deaton – Won 32-11 

Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault, Maggie Wheatley and Annie Dunham – Won 29-9 

Freda Lyon, Jan Sinclair, Sandra Hammond and Maisie Belding – Lost 15-20 

Carole Nunney, Sheila Chamberlain, Mandy Parkin and Julie Hicks – Lost 11-27 

Top Club Result 

On Sunday 29th January 2023, Spalding Lightning continued their quest for a third national mixed top club title with a relatively comfortable quarter final win against Hornsea, winning in all disciplines. Although the match result was 16-0, both singles could have gone either way as Chelsea Spencer held her nerve to draw shot with her last bowl to win 21-20 and Stephen Harris finished the stronger to win 21-18. The pairs, triples and fours were all well in Spalding Lightning’s favour before Hornsea acknowledged defeat with a few ends left to play. 

Spalding Lightning will now play Swale, who are four time winners of the competition, in the national semi final on Saturday 25th March 2023 at Nottingham Indoor Bowls Club. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Ladies Singles – Chelsea Spencer – Won 21-20

Men’s Singles – Stephen Harris – Won 21-18 

Pairs – Annie Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Won 20-11

Triples – Ruby Hill, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott – Won 20-9 

Fours – Jean Patterson, Karen Martin, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Won 17-9 

Denny Cup Defence Comes To An End 

On Saturday 28th January 2023, Spalding Lightning’s Denny Cup title defence came to an end at the quarter final stage in a high quality match against Hartlepool which went down to the wire at New Earswick Indoor Bowls Club. 

Hartlepool started the better of the two teams but by the half way stage, Spalding Lightning had battled hard and the lead changed hands on numerous occasions. In fact, Spalding Lightning actually opened up a 16 shot lead later on in the game before the scores were level with one rink playing their last end. The last end was killed twice, once by Spalding Lightning and once by Hartlepool, but Hartlepool held shot on the last end with Tristan Morton’s last bowl in hand and about three or four inches to get shot. The crowd and players of both teams were eagerly anticipating the last bowl and what an effort it was. For a split second, Morton had drawn shot only for it to sit out and Hartlepool won by a single shot, 80-79. Hartlepool will now play Riverain in the national semi final and we wish them all the best for the rest of the competition. 

Rink Scores 

Dan Mills, Ollie Jeapes, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Won 19-15

Kevin Ekins, Martin Simpson, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott – Lost 23-24

Stephen Harris, Brian Martin, Ean Morton and Tristan Morton – Lost 17-18

Lewis Parnell, Simon Lilley, Andy Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Lost 20-23

Mixed County League Result 

On Saturday 28th January 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club hosted Boston mixed county league. The home team were always in control before winning the overall aggregate 94-57 and on three of the four rinks, drawing on the other one. Spalding secured 13 of the available 14 match points. Top winning rink was skipped by Graham Wright, with Tony Westland, Sue Slayven and Maggie Wheatley, who had an impressive 36-6 rink win. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Tony Westland, Sue Slayven, Maggie Wheatley and Graham Wright – Won 36-6 

Jan Sinclair, Sheila Chamberlain, Mike Taylor and Mick Jennings – Won 21-16 

Ann Newbury, Petrine Ault, Mick Dolton and Anthony Cronin – Won 20-18 

Carole Nunney, George Deaton, Betty Deaton and David Nunney – Drew 17-17

Trudy Bates Result 

On Thursday 26th January 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s Trudy Bates ladies had a disappointing result away at Skegness. Spalding made a slow start and were never in front throughout the match, albeit the deficit was as little as three shots at one stage before Skegness won by 13 shots, 58-71. Spalding did manage two rink wins and pick up four points but the top winning rink was skipped by Maisie Belding, with Freda Lyon, Jan Sinclair and Sandra Hammond, who won 19-14. Spalding are currently two points ahead of rivals Boston in the southern league section but have played a game more than Boston. 

Well played Skegness and all the best for the rest of the season! 

Rink Scores 

Freda Lyon, Jan Sinclair, Sandra Hammond and Maisie Belding – Won 19-14 

Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault, Trish Stafford and Maggie Wheatley – Won 17-15 

Ann Newbury, Sue Slayven, Michelle Billingsley and Betty Deaton – Lost 11-20

Carole Nunney, Sheila Chamberlain, Mandy Parkin and Julie Hicks – Lost 11-23

Men’s Over 60s County League Result 

On Thursday 26th January 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s men’s over 60s county league team played at home against Stamford and although Spalding came out on top on three of the four rinks, they won the overall aggregate by a single shot, 74-73 and 12-2 on match points. Top winning rink was skipped by Graham Wright, with Derek Overton, Paul Turner and Robin Roffe, who won 25-19. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

D. Overton, P. Turner, R. Roffe and G. Wright – Won 25-19

T. Westland, D. Amess, T. Windsor and G. Hicks – Won 20-17

A. Brinkman, I. Stafford, R. West and D. Nunney – Won 17-15

B. Hodges, G. Deaton, R. Billingsley and M. Jennings – Lost 12-22

Egham Trophy Result 

On Sunday 15th January 2023, Spalding Lightning progressed to the national semi-final for the first time in the club’s history of the mixed Egham Trophy with a four shot win (76-72) against Cumbria. A match which was played at a neutral venue at New Earswick, Spalding Lightning were always in front but Cumbria battled hard to take the match to the wire where Spalding Lightning were two shots up with only one rink playing their last end. The end was played extremely well by Graham Smith’s rink to score two shots and win the match. Spalding Lightning actually only won on one rink which was skipped by Jordan Philpott, with Ruby Hill, Tracy Philpott and Martin Spencer who won 29-14. Next up in the semi-final are Huntingdon on Sunday 5th March 2023. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Ruby Hill, Tracy Philpott, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott – Won 29-14 

Jean Patterson, Rebecca Simpson, Simon Lilley and Graham Smith – Lost 20-21

Kevin Ekins, Louise Harris, Annie Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Lost 17-18

Stephen Harris, Karen Martin, Chelsea Spencer and Mathew Orrey – Lost 10-19 

Men’s County League Result 

On Saturday 14th January 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club had a comprehensive win in the men’s county league at home against Sleaford. Spalding won on all four rinks, the aggregate by 68 shots (114-46) and secured all 14 available match points. Top winning rink was skipped by Dan Mills, with Mick Dolton, Oliver Stanley and James Teesdale who had an impressive 44-8 rink win. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Mick Dolton, Oliver Stanley, James Teesdale and Dan Mills – Won 44-8 

Jack Wells, Nick Wilkie, Anthony Cronin and David Nunney – Won 29-7

Eric Wakefield, Robin Roffe, Gavin Staite and Martin Simpson – Won 24-18

George Almey, Tony Westland, Nathan Puttrell and Ian Stafford – Won 17-13 

Top Club Result 

On Sunday 8th January 2023, Spalding Lightning progressed to the national quarter final of the mixed top club with a 14-2 home win against Nottingham. The score line might suggest that it was comfortable for the home team but it was far from it as most disciplines went down to the wire.

The singles points were shared as Chelsea Spencer lost 20-21 and Stephen Harris won 21-18 but wins in the pairs, triples and fours booked Spalding Lightning’s place in the quarter final where they will play Hornsea on Sunday 29th January 2023. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Ladies Singles – Chelsea Spencer – Lost 20-21 

Men’s Singles – Stephen Harris – Won 21-18 

Pairs – Annie Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Won 23-17 

Triples – Ruby Hill, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott – Won 15-9 

Fours – Jean Patterson, Karen Martin, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Won 19-15 

Mixed County League Result 

On Sunday 8th January 2023, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club hosted Skegness in the mixed county league. The match was closely contested but it was the away team who won by three shots (73-76). With each team winning on two rinks and losing on two, the match points were 10-4 to Skegness. Top winning rink was skipped by David Nunney, with Carole Nunney, George Deaton and Betty Deaton who won 21-15. The next fixture is at home against Boston on Saturday 28th January 2023. 

Well done to everyone and all the best to Skegness for the rest of the season! 

Rink Scores

Carole Nunney, George Deaton, Betty Deaton and David Nunney – Won 21-15 

Tony Westland, Sue Slayven, Maggie Wheatley and Graham Wright – Won 21-18 

Jan Sinclair, Sheila Chamberlain, Robin Roffe and Mick Jennings – Lost 15-19 

Ann Newbury, Petrine Ault, Mick Dolton and Anthony Cronin – Lost 16-24 

Mixed Emotions for Denny and Yetton 

On Saturday 7th January 2023, Spalding Lightning had mixed emotions in the last 16 of the national inter-club knockout competitions as the men beat Nottingham in the Denny Cup but women lost a close match against last season’s runners up, Lincoln. 

Starting with the Denny Cup, Spalding Lightning had to battle to the very end to beat Nottingham by 17 shots (82-65). At five ends, Spalding Lightning were 18-14 up and there was still only five shots in the game at ten ends. Nottingham fought back slightly by 15 ends but Spalding Lightning finished the stronger of the two teams to win the match and book their place in the quarter final against Hartlepool on Saturday 28th January 2023. Spalding Lightning managed three out of four winning rinks but the top winning rink was the away rink skipped by Dominic McVittie, with Brian Martin, Lewis Parnell and Andy Dunham who won 19-9. 

Rink Scores

Home 

Dan Mills, Ollie Jeapes, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Won 21-14 

Kevin Ekins, Simon Lilley, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott – Won 25-20 

Away 

Brian Martin, Lewis Parnell, Andy Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Won 19-9 

Stephen Harris, Martin Simpson, Ean Morton and Tristan Morton – Lost 17-22 

Over to the women in the Yetton Trophy, Spalding Lightning started the better of the two teams as they raced into a 28-13 lead by five ends against Lincoln. This was mainly thanks to the home rink skipped by Chelsea Spencer who was 15-0 up. Lincoln soon got a foothold in the game though and were only seven adrift (43-36 ) by ten ends. Spalding Lightning were still 59-54 up at 15 ends but Lincoln took the lead for the first time, 67-71 by 18 ends. With play complete at Spalding, the score was 75-79 with Julie Hick’s rink playing her last end. Unfortunately, she only managed to score a double, meaning that Lincoln won by two shots and progressed to the quarter final. Spalding Lightning managed one winning rink which was skipped by Chelsea Spencer, with Jean Patterson, Tracy Philpott and Ruby Hill who had an impressive 35-11 rink win. 

Well played to Lincoln and all the best for the rest of the competition.

Rink Scores 

Home 

Jean Patterson, Tracy Philpott, Ruby Hill and Chelsea Spencer – Won 35-11 

Jan Sinclair, Carole Nunney, Sandra Hammond and Maisie Belding – Lost 11-16 

Away 

Sheila Chamberlain, Petrine Ault, Karen Martin and Maggie Wheatley – Lost 19-25 

Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley, Betty Deaton and Julie Hicks – Lost 12-27

4th Spalding Open Title For Nicky 

On Thursday 29th and Friday 30th December 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club hosted the Spalding Open which is part of the Open Singles Circuit ran by the English Indoor Bowling Association. Covid restrictions has meant that the tournament has not been able to run since 2019 and has always attracted some of the countries top players. This season was no different. 

After numerous sessions of play on Thursday evening and all day on Friday, the last eight players standing were world number 4, Nicky Brett, world number 14, Wayne Willgress, world number 17, Mark Royal, junior international, Joe Sanford from Crystal Palace, Tom Critoph from Beccles, Lloyd Sabatini from Riverain, Paul Oke from Sleaford, and our very own Jordan Philpott. 

After a live open draw, the quarter finals saw Willgress beat Critoph, Oke beat Sanford, Brett beat Philpott and Sabatini beat Royal in an exciting match which was decided on the final end of the tie break. The semi finals saw Brett come out on top against Willgress in straight sets whilst Oke, who won the Newark Open earlier in the season, also had a comfortable straight sets victory against Sabatini. 

The final was of the highest quality and actually saw Oke take an early 4-0 lead in the first set against the world number 4. Brett fought back well though with a run of 1, 2, 3 and 2 to win the first set 8-4. The second set was also closely contested where Oke was 4-3 up going into the last end. Oke laid two shots before Brett played a perfect two bowl take out with his final bowl. Oke missed with his last bowl which meant that Brett won the Spalding Open title for the 4th time. 

Thank you to our tournament sponsor Jet2Holidays and to club captain Graham Smith and his helpers for running the day. Thank you also to Julie and Graham Hicks and their many volunteers who helped run the Green Side Cuppa and serve snacks and refreshments throughout the day. 

Quarter Final Results 

Wayne Willgress beat Tom Critoph 2-0 (6-5, 5-3) 

Paul Oke beat Joe Sanford 1.5-0.5 (8-3, 5-5) 

Nicky Brett beat Jordan Philpott 1.5-0.5 (7-7, 10-2) 

Lloyd Sabatini beat Mark Royal 2-1 (4-7, 4-3, 2-1) 

Semi Finals 

Nicky Brett beat Wayne Willgress 2-0 (5-4, 10-6) 

Paul Oke beat Lloyd Sabatini 2-0 (9-4, 8-3) 

Final

Nicky Brett beat Paul Oke 1.5-0.5 (8-4, 4-4)  

Over 60s County League Result 

On Thursday 22nd December 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s over 60s county league team hosted Boston “B” in an extremely close encounter which saw the home team win by a single shot, 79-78. All rinks were closely contested and Spalding actually only won on one rink, drew on one and lost the other two. Top winning rink was skipped by Graham Hicks, with Tony Westland, Mick Dolton and Chris Warboys who won 20-15. The next fixture will be played at home against Stamford on Thursday 26th January 2023. 

Rink Scores 

T. Westland, M. Dolton, C. Warboys and G. Hicks – Won 20-15 

A. Brinkman, R. Perkins, R. Roffe and G. Wright – Drew 24-24

G. Deaton, A. Tokley, R. Billingsley and D. Amess – Lost 18-19

I. Stafford, P. Turner, T. Windsor and D. Nunney – Lost 17-20

Mixed County League Result 

On Sunday 18th December 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s mixed county league team found it tough going away at Boston as they lost by 25 shots (62-87). Spalding did win one rink which secured two match points. Spalding’s winning rink was skipped by Mick Jennings, with Jan Sinclair, Sue Slayven and Ian Stafford who won 23-19. The next fixture will be at home against Skegness on Sunday 8th January 2023. Well played to Boston and all the best for the rest of the season. 

Rink Scores 

J. Sinclair, S. Slayven, I. Stafford and M. Jennings – Won 23-19

A. Newbury, P. Ault, M. Dolton and R. Perkins – Lost 17-20

C. Nunney, G. Deaton, B. Deaton and D. Nunney – Lost 13-25 

T. Westland, S. Chamberlain, M. Wheatley and G. Wright – Lost 9-23 

Trudy Bates Result 

On Wednesday 14th December 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s Trudy Bates county league team travelled to Stamford for their last game before the Christmas break. Stamford stormed ahead right from the start however, Spalding fought back well but eventually lost by three shots (63-66). Spalding won on two rinks and lost on two which meant that the match points were 10-4 in Stamford’s favour. Top winning rink was skipped by Julie Hicks, with Carole Nunney, Sheila Chamberlain and Mandy Parkins who won 23-16. Despite this defeat, Spalding remain top of the county’s south division by 12 points ahead of Boston who have played a game less. The next fixture is away at Skegness on Thursday 26th January 2023. Well played to Stamford and all the best for the rest of the season.

Rink Scores 

Carole Nunney, Sheila Chamberlain, Mandy Parkins and Julie Hicks – Won 23-16 

Ann Newbury, Sue Slayven, Michelle Billingsley and Betty Deaton – Won 16-14 

Freda Lyon, Doris Rawding, Jan Sinclair and Sandra Hammond – Lost 17-20

Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault, Dee Brinkman and Maggie Wheatley – Lost 7-16 

Egham Trophy Result 

On Sunday 11th December 2022, Spalding Lightning secured their place in the quarter final of the Egham Trophy with a comfortable win against Lincoln. Spalding Lightning were ahead from the outset and won on all four rinks which led to a 94-43 aggregate win. Top winning rink was skipped by Graham Smith, with Jean Patterson, Rebecca Simpson and Simon Lilley who had an impressive 32-12 win. In the quarter final, Spalding Lightning will play Hornsea or Cumbria on Sunday 15th January 2023. 

Well done to everyone! 

Rink Scores

Home 

Jean Patterson, Rebecca Simpson, Simon Lilley and Graham Smith – Won 32-12

Kevin Ekins, Tracy Philpott, Annie Dunham and Jordan Philpott – Won 19-13

Away 

Stephen Harris, Karen Martin, Chelsea Spencer and Mathew Orrey – Won 20-6

Ruby Hill, Louise Harris, Martin Spencer and Dominic McVittie – Won 23-12 

Denny Cup and Yetton Trophy Results 

On Saturday 10th December 2022, Spalding Lightning progressed to the last 16 of the Denny Cup and Yetton Trophy with wins against Barwell and Leicester respectively. 

In the Denny Cup, Spalding Lightning were out of the blocks quickly, mainly thanks to the home rinks and were 30-14 up at five ends. This was extended to 50-26 at ten ends and 79-41 by 15 ends. Barwell conceded and shook hands with Spalding Lightning 30 shots (89-59) ahead at 18 ends. Winning on three of the four rinks, the top winning rink was skipped by Dominic McVittie, with Brian Martin, Lewis Parnell and Andy Dunham who returned a 31-13 rink win. 

Played alongside the Denny Cup, the Spalding Lightning ladies had an equally impressive win in the Yetton Trophy. From the very start, Spalding Lightning stamped their authority on the match, won by 47 shots (99-52) and won on all rinks. Top winning rink was skipped by our newly crowned under 25 world champion Ruby Hill, with Jean Patterson, Carole Nunney and Tracy Philpott who won 34-9. 

Next up in the Denny Cup and Yetton Trophy last 16 are Nottingham and Lincoln respectively, both ties being played on Saturday 7th January 2023. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Denny Cup Rink Scores

Home 

Brian Martin, Lewis Parnell, Andy Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Won 31-13

Dan Mills, Ollie Jeapes, Simon Lilley and Graham Smith – Won 19-14

Away 

Kevin Ekins, Martin Simpson, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott – Won 26-13

Stephen Harris, Mike Robertson, Ean Morton and Tristan Morton – Lost 13-19 

Yetton Trophy Rink Scores

Home

Jean Patterson, Carole Nunney, Tracy Philpott and Ruby Hill – Won 34-9

Freda Lyon, Jan Sinclair, Sandra Hammond and Maisie Belding – Won 21-12

Away 

Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley, Betty Deaton and Julie Hicks – Won 22-13

Sheila Chamberlain, Petrine Ault, Karen Martin and Maggie Wheatley – Won 23-18 

Under 25 World Championship Glory For Ruby 

After winning the ladies national under 25 singles in the 2021/22 season, Ruby Hill represented England at the International Indoor Bowls Council under 25 singles and mixed pairs championships which were held at County Antrim Indoor Bowls Club between Monday 5th and Friday 9th December 2022. As the men’s national under 25 singles champion, Harry Goodwin from Swale would partner Ruby in the mixed pairs event. 

Ruby had an excellent week and after coming runner up in her singles group, lost out to Yu Yee Sin from Hong Kong in the semi-final. However, Ruby and Harry went on to lift the world under 25 mixed pairs title and here is how they did it……. 

The pair started the week with a tough game against Australian duo, Brianna Smith and Nick Cahill. Ruby and Harry found the Australian’s in top form and lost in straight sets (3-9, 1-11). They bounced back well though with a win against Ellie Dixon from Norfolk Island and Angel Gomez from USA (6-9, 17-1, 1-0). Ruby and Harry were clearly playing well as they won their next two group games in straight sets, the first being against Larissa Rubin from Switzerland and Daniel Spratt from Ireland (8-2, 7-6) and showed their class against the Hungarian pairing of Sarolta Schrank and Mate Dobos (19-1, 18-0).  In their final group game, Ruby and Harry beat Catherine Snell and Ben Harvey from Guernsey (9-1, 7-3) which secured second place in the group and a place in the knockout stages. 

As they finished second in the group, Ruby and Harry had to play a playoff against the Guernsey pairing who finished third. Fortunately, another straight sets victory followed (12-2, 5-4) to book their place in the semi-final against the other group winners, Kara Lees and Bradley Buchan from Scotland. After winning the first set 10-5, Ruby and Harry went into the last end of the second set 5-6 behind but scoring a single meant that they drew the set and won the match 1.5-0.5. Awaiting them in the final were the Australian pair of Smith and Cahill who beat Shauna O’Neill and Adam Rankin from Ireland in their semi-final. 

After being beaten by the Aussie’s in the group stages, Ruby and Harry were no doubt out for revenge but Smith and Cahill started the better of the two teams to win the first set 14-1. Ruby and Harry fought back well to win the second set 12-4 to set up a tense one end tie break to decide the title. Ruby and Harry held their nerve to win the tie break and the title of world under 25 mixed pairs champions. 

Congratulations to you both! 

International Call Ups 

After the international trials at Nottingham Indoor Bowls Club on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th December 2022, the teams were announced this week and we had a few members successful in being selected. 

In the senior men’s team, Stephen Harris, Matt Whyers, Graham Smith and Mark Dawes were successful in retaining their places, whilst Dominic McVittie has been selected as travelling reserve for the second year running. Stephen will lead a rink with Martin Puckett (Dorchester), Les Gillett (Melton) and captain Greg Harlow (Ely) whilst Matt, Graham and Mark are all selected in the same rink with Robert Paxton (Exonia) at number three. The men will be trying to win the international series for a record extending 8th consecutive year at Abbeyview IBC in Scotland between Thursday 16th and Saturday 18th March 2023. 

Moving on to the ladies senior team, Annie Dunham, Chelsea Spencer and Ruby Hill all retained their places in the team. Annie will skip a rink with Devon Cooper (Hartlepool), Kylie Jenkins (Egham) and captain Sandy Hazell (Swale). Chelsea will also skip her own rink with Cassidy Lenton (Exonia), Chloe Brett (Huntingdon) and Anna Chalk (Lakenheath). The ladies will be trying the regain the international series, also at Abbeyview IBC between Friday 10thand Sunday 12th March 2023. 

In the ladies under 25 team, Ruby also retained her place where she will play number three to captain Rachel Tremlett (St Neots) with Leah Bamford and Imogen Jenner (both from Swale) at the front end. The series will take place at Ffrith IBC in Wales over the weekend of Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th February 2023. 

Finally, Ollie Jeapes was selected as travelling reserve in the mixed under 18 international series which will be held at Solihull IBC between Friday 13th and Sunday 15th January 2023. 

Congratulations and good luck to everyone selected! 

Over 60s County League Result 

On Tuesday 6th December 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s over 60s county league team lost a close encounter away at Grantham by four shots (67-71). Winning on two of the four rinks, the match score was 10-4 in Grantham’s favour. Spalding’s top winning rink was skipped by G. Hicks, with M. Stanley, A. Brinkman and G. Deaton who won 22-14. 

Well played to Grantham and all the best for the rest of the season. 

Rink Scores 

M. Stanley, A. Brinkman, G. Deaton and G. Hicks – Won 22-14 

M. Taylor, P. Turner, T. Windsor and C. Stagles – Won 18-13 

B. Hodges, R. Perkins, R. Billingsley and G. Wright – Lost 13-16

D. Overton, N. Strickson, I. Stafford and D. Nunney – Lost 14-28

Men’s County League Result 

On Sunday 4th December 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s men’s county league team had a good win away against Stamford “B”. They won on three of the four rinks and won the aggregate 93-68 which secured 12 of the 14 match points. Top winning rink was skipped by Simon Lilley, with Kevin Ekins, George Almey and Martin Simpson who had a good 28-13 rink win. 

Rink Scores 

Kevin Ekins, George Almey, Martin Simpson and Simon Lilley – Won 28-13 

Nick Wilkie, Tony Westland, Nathan Puttrell and Ian Stafford – Won 25-16 

Jack Wells, Oliver Stanley, James Teesdale and Brian Martin – Won 18-16 

Brian Hodges, Kevin Puttrell, Mike Robertson and Gavin Staite – Lost 22-23

Egham Trophy Result 

On Sunday 27th November 2022, Spalding Lightning progressed to the last 16 of the Egham Trophy with a 16 shot (82-66) win against Barwell. Spalding Lightning started the stronger of the two teams as they went 23-16 up by five ends and 45-33 at ten ends. The lead was extended to 64-42 at 15 ends and whilst Barwell fought back slightly to 70-55 at 18 ends, Spalding Lightning eventually booked their place in the last 16 where they will play Lincoln on Sunday 11th December 2022. Winning on three of the four rinks, the top winning rink was skipped by Mark Dawes, with Stephen Harris, Karen Martin and Chelsea Spencer who won 23-7. 

Well done to everyone! 

Rink Scores

Home 

Jean Patterson, Rebecca Simpson, Simon Lilley and Graham Smith – Won 23-13

Ruby Hill, Tracy Philpott, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott – Won 21-20

Away

Stephen Harris, Karen Martin, Chelsea Spencer and Mark Dawes – Won 23-7

Dan Mills, Louise Harris, Annie Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Lost 15-26 

Under 30s Double Triples Result 

On Saturday 26th November 2022, Spalding Lightning’s talented under 30s double triples team had a comfortable 41-25 win against Melton. Although Spalding Lightning won on both rinks, the main damage was done by the away rink skipped by Dominic McVittie, with Ollie Jeapes and Chelsea Spencer who had a good 21-9 rink win. Next up are South Shields Vipers in the quarter finals on Saturday 4th February 2023. 

Rink Scores

Home 

Ruby Hill, Stephen Harris and Jordan Philpott – Won 20-16 

Away 

Ollie Jeapes, Chelsea Spencer and Dominic McVittie – Won 21-9

Men’s County League Result 

On Saturday 26th November 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club lost a close encounter in the men’s county league at Sleaford by five shots (78-83). Spalding won on two rinks so secured four of the available match points. Top winning rink was skipped by Brian Martin, with Jack Wells, Oliver Stanley and James Teesdale who won 30-21. 

Brian Martin who captained the side said “The youngsters etiquette on the green was remarkable today, both conduct and bowling ability.” Members of the home team also complimented our juniors on their determination and passion for the game and commented how great it was to watch. They are certainly an asset to our wonderful club. 

Rink Scores

Jack Wells, Oliver Stanley, James Teesdale and Brian Martin – Won 30-21

Nick Wilkie, Robin Roffe, Nathan Puttrell and Ian Stafford – Won 23-16

Mick Dolton, Paul Turner, Mike Robertson and Dan Mills – Lost 16-18 

Eric Wakefield, George Almey, Tony Westland and Graham Hicks – Lost 9-28 

Trudy Bates Result 

On Thursday 24th November 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s ladies travelled to Grantham in their first away Trudy Bates fixture of the season. Spalding played well with some fresh faces to win on two out of the four rinks and by 20 shots on aggregate. Grantham actually edged three shots ahead at one point but Spalding didn’t let that last long as they finished with a flourish. Top winning rink was skipped by Maggie Wheatley with Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault and Dee Brinkman who had an impressive 33-8 rink win. The final fixture before Christmas is away at Stamford on Wednesday 14th December 2022. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores

Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault, Dee Brinkman and Maggie Wheatley – Won 33-8

Freda Lyon, Jan Sinclair, Sandra Hammond and Maisie Belding – Won 23-9 

Sheila Chamberlain, Gillian Haydon, Carole Nunney and Mandy Parkin – Lost 16-25 

Ann Newbury, Sue Slayven, Michelle Billingsley and Betty Deaton – Lost 17-27 

Over 60s County League Result 

On Wednesday 23rd November 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club found it tough going away at Stamford in the over 60s men’s county league as they lost 96-55 and 13-1 on points. Spalding did manage one drawing rink which was skipped by David Nunney, with Tony Westland, Mick Dolton and Keith Jackson. 

Well played to Stamford and all the best for the rest of the season! 

Rink Score 

T. Westland, M. Dolton, K. Jackson and D. Nunney – Drew 17-17

B. Hodges, G. Deaton, R. Billingsley and M. Jennings – Lost 14-18

T. Windsor, R. Perkins, R. Roffe and G. Wright – Lost 13-26

M. Stanley, A. Tokley, C. Stagles and D. Amess – Lost 11-35 

County Mixed League Result 

On Sunday 20th November 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s county mixed league team travelled to Skegness for their third fixture of the season. After a closely contested match, Skegness came out on top by ten shots (81-71) and 12-2 on points. Spalding did manage one winning rink though which was skipped by David Nunney, with Carole Nunney, George Deaton and Betty Deaton who won 27-15. Despite this defeat, Spalding remain top of the southern section of the mixed county league, ahead of Grantham on shot difference. Spalding have one more fixture before Christmas which is away at Boston on Sunday 18th December 2022. Well played Skegness and all the best for the rest of the season! 

Rink Scores

Carole Nunney, George Deaton, Betty Deaton and David Nunney – Won 27-15

Tony Westland, Gill Haydon, Maggie Wheatley and Graham Wright – Lost 16-18

Ann Newbury, Petrine Ault, Mike Taylor and Anthony Cronin – Lost 15-24

Jan Sinclair, Sheila Chamberlain, Ian Stafford and Mick Jennings – Lost 13-24 

Top Club Result 

On Sunday 20th November 2022, Spalding Lightning safely secured their place in the last 16 of the Mixed Top Club competition with a home win against Leicester. 

Spalding Lightning were in the driving seat early in the tie after securing wins in both the ladies and mens singles. This meant that Spalding Lightning only needed a win in one from the remaining disciplines plus the aggregate and with the pairs 26-1 up at 11 ends, the overall result was never in doubt. Winning in all disciplines, the overall match score was 16-0 and Spalding Lightning now play Sleaford or Nottingham in the last 16 on Sunday 8th January 2023. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores 

Ladies Singles – Chelsea Spencer – Won 21-12 

Men’s Singles – Stephen Harris – Won 21-6 

Pairs – Annie Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Won 26-1 

Triples – Ruby Hill, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott – Won 16-6 

Fours – Jean Patterson, Louise Harris, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Won 11-9

Enjoyable Week at Potters 

Members and friends of Spalding Indoor Bowls Club travelled to Potters Leisure Resort, Horton-On-Sea between 14thand 18th November 2022 to enjoy the excellent facilities and take part in the bowls competition, which started with 72 teams from across the country. Spalding had ten teams taking part with eight still in contention at the last 16 stage. Four teams progressed to the quarter finals and Spalding made up three of the four semi-finalists. 

Spalding’s semi-finalists were made up of Tim Rogers, Petrine Ault, Doris Rawding and John Rawding, Hazel Searson, Cliff Searson, Betty Deaton and George Deaton and finally, Carole Nunney, David Nunney, Chris Stagles and Ann Newbury. Spalding did make up the two finalists but there could only be one winner. After a highly entertaining final, Hazel Searson, Cliff Searson, Betty Deaton and George Deaton were victorious. Spalding also won the award for “top club” which was decided by the highest team percentage to make the last 16. 

A good time was had by all with the non-bowlers taking part in the on site activities and one even winning over £600 at bingo. Everyone really enjoyed the excellent food, service and all inclusive drinks. 

Denny Cup and Yetton Trophy Progress 

On Saturday 19th November 2022, Spalding Lightning progressed in both the Denny Cup and Yetton Trophy with comfortable wins against Peterborough and Stamford respectively. Both teams will play either Leicester or Barwell on Saturday 10th December 2022 in the last 32. 

Starting with the men in the Denny Cup, it was a very dominant performance from start to finish as they won by 70 shots, 117-47 against Peterborough. Spalding Lightning stamped their authority on the match from the outset and were 32-10 by five ends, which was extended to 64-27 by ten ends. The score was 90-40 at 15 ends before Peterborough acknowledged defeat and shook hands with the score 117-47 and all rinks played between 15 and 20 ends. Winning on all fours rinks, the top winning rink was skipped by Jordan Philpott, with Andy Dunham, Martin Simpson and Martin Spencer, who won 36-14. 

The ladies in the Yetton Trophy had an equally impressive win against Stamford, 104-56. Although Spalding Lightning were 23-16 up at five ends, the main damage across the board was done between five and ten ends where the lead was extended to 47-27. At 15 and 18 ends, the score was 70-41 and 88-46 and eventually won by 48 shots, 104-56. Spalding Lightning won on three out of four rinks by the top winning rink was actually one of the away rinks skipped by Betty Deaton, with Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley and Tracy Philpott, who won 36-12. 

Well done to everyone involved! 

Denny Cup Rink Scores

Home 

Andy Dunham, Martin Simpson, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott – Won 36-14 

Dan Mills, Ollie Jeapes, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Won 31-12 

Away 

Kevin Ekins, Lewis Parnell, Simon Lilley and Dominic McVittie – Won 23-8 

Stephen Harris, Mike Robertson, Ean Morton and Tristan Morton- Won 27-13 

Yetton Trophy Rink Scores 

Home 

Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault, Maggie Wheatley and Chelsea Spencer – Won 29-15

Louise Harris, Jan Sinclair, Sandra Hammond and Maisie Belding – Lost 12-21

Away 

Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley, Tracy Philpott and Betty Deaton – Won 36-12

Carole Nunney, Sheila Chamberlain, Chris Jackson and Julie Hicks – Won 27-8 

England Trials 

Congratulations to all our members who have been selected to play at the forthcoming England trials over the weekend of Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th December 2022 at Nottingham Indoor Bowls Club. 

Senior Men – Stephen Harris, Matt Whyers, Graham Smith, Mark Dawes, Dominic McVittie and Jordan Philpott (Travelling Reserve) 

Senior Women – Annie Dunham, Ruby Hill and Chelsea Spencer 

U25 Men – Harry Mycock (playing out of Nottingham this season due to university) 

U25 Women – Ruby Hill 

Mixed U18 – Ollie Jeapes 

Good luck to you all! 

Egham Trophy Result 

On Sunday 13th November 2022, Spalding Lightning booked their place in the third round of the mixed Egham Trophy with a comfortable 60 shot (105-45) win against Stamford. Although Stamford were well in the game up to ten ends with the difference only eleven shots (38-27), Spalding Lightning showed their class in the second half where the lead was extended to 65-36 by 15 ends and 94-42 at 18 ends. Stamford conceded when the score was 105-45 with most rinks having played 19 or 20 ends. Spalding Lightning won on all rinks but the top winning rink was skipped by Dominic McVittie, with Kevin Ekins, Maggie Wheatley and Annie Dunham, who returned an impressive 33-13 rink win. Well done also to Carole Nunney who made her debut in the team. Next up are Barwell, who beat Leicester, on Sunday 27th November 2022. Well done to everyone involved! 

Rink Scores

Home 

Jean Patterson, Carole Nunney, Simon Lilley and Graham Smith – Won 26-15

Ruby Hill, Tracy Philpott, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott – Won 19-8 

Away 

Kevin Ekins, Maggie Wheatley, Annie Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Won 33-13

Stephen Harris, Julie Hicks, Chelsea Spencer and Mathew Orrey – Won 27-9 

Men’s County League Result 

On Saturday 12th November 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club hosted Grantham in the men’s county league. Although the match was closely contested, the away team prevailed by five shots, 87-92. Grantham also secured 12 of the 14 available match points. Spalding did manage one rink win though which was skipped by Dan Mills, with Tony Westland, Paul Turner and Mike Robertson, who won 34-10. Well done to Grantham and all the best for the rest of the season!

Rink Scores 

Tony Westland, Paul Turner, Mike Robertson and Dan Mills – Won 34-10 

Robin Roffe, Mike Taylor, Martin Simpson and James Teesdale – Lost 20-24 

Jack Wells, Oliver Stanley, Chris Stagles and Ean Morton – Lost 21-28 

Nathan Puttrell, Anthony Cronin, Ian Stafford and David Nunney – Lost 13-30 

Under 30s Double Triples Result 

On Sunday 6th November 2022, Spalding Lightning’s under 30s double triples team had a comfortable 31 shot win against Nottingham. Spalding Lightning were always in front with the lead 12-4 at five ends and 29-8 by ten ends before Nottingham shook hands around 14 ends with the score at 40-9. Although both rinks won, the top winning rink was our away rink of Ollie Jeapes, Chelsea Spencer and Dominic McVittie who won 29-2. Next up are Melton or Barwell on Saturday 26th November 2022. 

Well done to you all. Our club has always prided itself on our excellent junior section and we are lucky to have so many good young bowlers! 

Rink Scores

Home 

Ruby Hill, Stephen Harris and Jordan Philpott – Won 11-7 

Away 

Ollie Jeapes, Chelsea Spencer and Dominic McVittie – Won 29-2

Friendly Result 

On Sunday 6th November 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s friendly bowlers had another enjoyable match at home against Boston. Spalding started well with a 13 shot advantage at the half way mark but Boston made a bit of a comeback in the second half. Winning on four rinks, Spalding did manage to hold on to the lead and won the overall aggregate 101-84. Top winning rink was skipped by Maggie Wheatley, with Eric Wakefield and Paula Lawson. Well done everyone! 

Denny Cup and Yetton Trophy Results 

On Saturday 5th November 2022, Spalding Lightning safely negotiated their way through to the second round of both the Denny Cup and Yetton Trophy, being the national inter-club knockout competitions for men and women respectively. 

Starting with the Denny Cup where Spalding are the defending champions after winning the 2021/22 competition earlier this year, Spalding Lightning started their defence with a win against local rivals, Stamford. The two teams actually met in the second round last season where the winning margin was 14 shots but it was far more comfortable this time round. Spalding Lightning were 28-16 up by five ends but the main damage was done between five and ten ends where the lead was extended to 35 shots (62-27). The lead was 38 shots by 15 ends before Stamford acknowledged defeat when the rinks had played 19 or 20 ends with the final score being 100-56. Winning on two rinks and drawing on two, the top winning rink was skipped by Dominic McVittie, with Lewis Parnell, Martin Simpson and Martin Spencer, who won 32-9. Well done also to Dan Mills and David Nunney who both made their Denny Cup debut for the club. Next up are Peterborough (who beat Grantham by four shots) on Saturday 19th November 2022. 

Played at the same time, the Spalding Lightning women had an equally impressive win against Peterborough in the Yetton Trophy. Spalding Lightning we’re already 22 shots (32-10) in front by five ends and the score was 60-19 by ten ends. The lead was 50 shots at 15 ends (87-27) and the final score was 116-34. The main damage was done by the two home rinks who recorded an incredible accumulative score of 86-7 but the top winning rink was skipped by Maggie Wheatley, with Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault and Trish Stafford, who won 48-4. Next up are Stamford (who beat Sleaford), also on Saturday 19th November 2022. 

Well done to everyone! 

Denny Cup Rink Scores 

Home 

Kevin Ekins, David Nunney, Simon Lilley and Jordan Philpott – Won 29-8

Dan Mills, Ollie Jeapes, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Drew 19-19

Away 

Lewis Parnell, Martin Simpson, Martin Spencer and Dominic McVittie – Won 32-9

Stephen Harris, Mike Robertson, Ean Morton and Tristan Morton – Drew 20-20 

Yetton Trophy Rink Scores 

Home 

Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault, Trish Stafford and Maggie Wheatley – Won 48-4

Carole Nunney, Sheila Chamberlain, Chris Jackson and Julie Hicks – Won 38-3 

Away 

Jan Sinclair, Gill Haydon, Sandra Hammond and Maisie Belding – Won 19-10

Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley, Tracy Philpott and Betty Deaton – Lost 11-17 

Egham Trophy Result 

On Sunday 30th October 2022, Spalding Lightning started their Egham Trophy campaign with a comfortable 76 shot victory (118-42) against Grantham. Spalding were always in front and at five ends, were 23-12 up, mainly thanks to the rink skipped by Mark Dawes who were 9-1 up. The lead was extended to 30 shots (52-22) by ten ends. Playing at home, Jordan Philpott’s rink also picked up a full house count of eight shots on the 10th end. The lead was 96-40 at 18 ends before Grantham accepted defeat with Spalding 76 shots ahead. Winning on three of the four rinks, the top winning rink was skipped by Mark Dawes, with Stephen Harris, Karen Martin and Chelsea Spencer, who returned an impressive 38-6 rink win. 

Next up are Stamford on Sunday 13th November 2022. 

Rink Scores 

Home 

Ruby Hill, Tracy Philpott, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott – Won 37-8 

Jean Patterson, Rebecca Simpson, Simon Lilley and Graham Smith – Won 29-12 

Away

Stephen Harris, Karen Martin, Chelsea Spencer and Mark Dawes – Won 38-6 

Kevin Ekins, Louise Harris, Annie Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Lost 14-16 

Club Presentation Evening 

On Saturday 29th October 2022, we held our club presentation evening to celebrate the club’s competition and league winners for the 2021/22 season. An enjoyable evening was had by the 75 people in attendance, which included two time world indoor singles champion, Mark Dawes who presented the prizes. Mark also hosted an excellent question and answer session, as well as playing a 20 minute challenge against four drawn members in attendance. The prize for anyone able to beat Mark was free membership for next season which gave an added incentive to those drawn to play and left the club treasurer on the edge of his seat. Robin Roffe, Jordan Philpott, Oliver Stanley and Chris Mycock were drawn out of the hat. Jordan got the closest to a free membership as he drew with Mark but all four players enjoyed the experience, especially 12 year old Oliver. 

County Mixed League Result 

On Saturday 29th October 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s county mixed league team had another good win at home against Stamford. Spalding won on three of the four rinks, won 114-56 on aggregate and collected 12 of the available 14 match points. Top winning rink was skipped by David Dunney, with Carole Nunney, George Deaton and Betty Deaton, who won 36-8. 

Rink Scores 

Carole Nunney, George Deaton, Betty Deaton and David Nunney – Won 36-8 

Jean Patterson, Tony Westland, Maggie Wheatley and Graham Wright – Won 35-13 

Ann Newbury, Petrine Ault, Mick Dolton and Anthony Cronin – Won 25-11 

Jan Sinclair, Trish Stafford, Ian Stafford and Mick Jennings – Lost 18-24 

Over 60s County League Result 

On Thursday 27th October 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s over 60s county league team found it tough going away against a strong Lincoln “A” team. Lincoln had previously won their opening two fixtures of the season and showed no mercy as they won on three rinks and drew on the other. The final score was 92-53 and 13-1 on match points in Lincoln’s favour. Our drawing rink was skipped by G. Hicks, with M. Dolton, N. Strickson and K. Jackson, who drew 16-16. 

Well played to Lincoln and all the best for the rest of the season! 

Rink Scores 

M. Dolton, N. Strickson, K. Jackson and G. Hicks – Drew 16-16

G. Deaton, R. Roffe, R. Billingsley and M. Jennings – Lost 15-21

D. Overton, P. Turner, T. Windsor and C. Stagles – Lost 13-29

A. Tokley, D. Wilkinson, R. West and D. Nunney – Lost 9-26 

Friendly Result 

On Sunday 23rd October 2022, Spalding’s friendly bowlers enjoyed a trip to Peterborough. After nine ends, Spalding held a 17 shot lead (51-34) but the home team soon settled into the game and Peterborough won by four shots, 89-85. Top winning rink for Spalding though was skipped by Ian Stafford, with Eric Wakefield, Richard Smallwood and Hazel Tokley. 

Top Club Result 

On Sunday 23rd October 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club continued their quest for a third mixed top club title with a home win against Melton. This match also saw the introduction of the new “Spalding Lightning” kit, kindly sponsored by Bridgestone Tyres and Roythornes Solicitors. Our northern friends, South Shields Vipers rebranded a few years ago and hope that with our innovative thinking, we can continue to modernise the game and make it more appealing to the younger age groups. We also hope that other clubs will follow us in this journey. 

Back to the top club match, the spoils were shared in the singles as Chelsea Spencer won the ladies singles but Stephen Harris lost an extremely close match in the men’s singles. With a win in the pairs and a defeat in the fours, the tie would be decided on the triples. Going into the last end, Spalding’s Kevin Ekins, Annie Dunham and Martin Spencer were 18-15 up. They consolidated well to drop a single, win 18-16 and help book Spalding’s place in the third round. 

Next up is a home clash against Leicester on Sunday 20th November 2022. 

Rink Scores

Ladies Singles – Chelsea Spencer – Won 21-14 

Men’s Singles – Stephen Harris – Lost 20-21

Pairs – Ruby Hill and Jordan Philpott – Won 17-11

Triples – Kevin Ekins, Annie Dunham and Martin Spencer – Won 18-16 

Fours – Jean Patterson, Karen Martin, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Lost 16-20 

Trudy Bates Result 

On Thursday 20th October 2022, Spalding’s ladies had a good result at home to Stamford in the Trudy Bates county league. Spalding started strong on two rinks with the other two closely contested. The team were never behind on aggregate and finished winning on all rinks, thanks to Betty Deaton’s rink scoring two shots on the last end to win by one. The overall aggregate score was 126-55 and 14-0 on points. With two rinks winning by the same margin, the top winning rink on ends won was skipped by Maggie Wheatley, with Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault and Karen Martin, who had an impressive 35-8 rink win. 

Rink Scores

Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault, Karen Martin and Maggie Wheatley – Won 35-8 

Carole Nunney, Sheila Chamberlain, Chris Jackson and Julie Hicks – Won 36-9 

Freda Lyon, Jan Sinclair, Sandra Hammond and Maisie Belding – Won 35-19 

Ann Newbury, Sue Slayven, Michelle Billingsley and Betty Deaton – Won 20-19 

Men’s County League Result 

On Saturday 15th October 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s mens county league team played their second game of the season away against Boston “A”. A closely contested match saw the lead change hands on numerous occasions but it was the home team who finished the stronger to win the overall aggregate by three shots, 77-74. Spalding did win on two of the four rinks and claimed four of the available 14 match points but the top winning rink was skipped by Martin Simpson, with Nick Wilkie, Abs Belding and Graham Hicks who won 23-11. 

Well done Boston and all the best for the rest of the season. 

Rink Scores

Nick Wilkie, Abs Belding, Graham Hicks and Martin Simpson – Won 23-11

Mick Dolton, Paul Turner, Anthony Cronin and David Nunney – Won 18-14 

Kevin Ekins, Tony Westland, Dan Mills and Ean Morton – Lost 20-26

Eric Wakefield, Brian Martin, Mike Robertson and Lewis Parnell – Lost 13-26 

World Championship Qualifying Heartache for Chelsea 

This season, the World Bowls Tour have reintroduced Ladies World Matchplay qualifying and on Saturday 15thOctober 2022, Huntingdon Indoor Bowls Club hosted one of the events. Ruby Hill, Annie Dunham and Chelsea Spencer all attended the event. 

Ruby and Annie both safely negotiated their first round matches were they were then joined by Chelsea who had received a bye into the last 16. Ruby and Annie were unfortunately drawn against each other where Annie won a close match 2-1 on a tie break. Chelsea also won her last 16 match on a tie break against Gillian Hinsley. In the quarter final, Annie was drawn against fellow ladies international, Nicole Rogers from Devon. Unfortunately, after another close match, Annie came out on the wrong side of a last end tie break defeat. Chelsea won her quarter final against Jorja Jackson from the host club in straight sets. The semi final saw Chelsea play Jacqueline Henderson from Nottingham and after winning both sets 7-5, booked her place in the final qualifying match where she played Nicole. Unfortunately, Nicole proved too strong on the day and won in straight sets, 7-4, 8-6.

Good luck to Nicole in the World Championships at Potters in January! 

Record Breaking Men’s International Series 

On Thursday 13th and Friday 14th October 2022, Belfast Indoor Bowls Club hosted the Men’s International Series. Spalding was well represented as Graham Smith, Mark Dawes and Matt Whyers retained their places in the England team, Stephen Harris called up as a new cap and Dominic McVittie as travelling reserve. Matt and Graham were lead and two in a rink with Robert Paxton and Mark skipping, whilst Stephen led in a rink skipped by Greg Harlow, with Martin Puckett and current world singles champion, Les Gillett, in the middle. 

The series started well for England with comfortable wins against Wales (129-97) and Ireland (139-83). Mark’s rink found it tough going against a strong Welsh rink skipped by two time Commonwealth Games pairs gold medalist, Daniel Salmon, as they lost 11-21 but bounced back well to beat an Irish rink, 23-21. Stephen’s rink were in top form as they won both their rinks with ease, 29-14 against Wales and 30-5 against Ireland. The Ireland rink score was made even more impressive by the fact that Ian McClure skipped against them who had won the British Isles Singles title only the day before. With Scotland also beating Ireland and Wales, it set up a series decider between the two auld enemies. 

In a highly anticipated contest with no fewer than eleven of the world top 16 taking part, England showed their class from the outset and ran out comfortable 131-94 winners. England were always in front and by ten ends, had already opened up a lead of 65-46. England showed no mercy as the lead was extended throughout the match to win by 37 shots. Mark’s rink narrowly lost 15-17 against the Scotland rink skipped by Stewart Anderson who was actually named BIIBC Player of the Series, whilst Stephen’s rink enjoyed another rink win (22-18) against Colin Walker. 

England lifted the Hilton Trophy for the 41st time since the annual series first took place in 1936 and for a record breaking 7th consecutive year. Well done to everyone involved!

British Isles Championships Glory 

Spalding were well represented at the British Isles Championships which were also held in Belfast on Tuesday 11th, Wednesday 12th and Thursday 13th October 2022. After winning the English national title in October 2021, Stephen Harris and Graham Smith were England’s representatives in the mens pairs and Ruby Hill, Chelsea Spencer and Annie Dunham in the ladies triples. Ruby was also in the junior singles. It proved to be another great few days for the club. 

Starting with the boys, Stephen and Graham beat the representatives from Channel Islands 28-8 before winning a much closer contest against brothers, Mark and David Harding from Wales, 16-10. The final saw them face Scott Kennedy and Billy Mellors from Scotland. The Scottish pair actually started the stronger as they opened up a 8-3 lead but Stephen and Graham were not willing to give up without a fight as they got back level at 9-9 with four ends to play. Two singles from Scotland saw them go 11-9 up but a brilliant shot by Graham on the penultimate end to trail the jack for four shots saw the Spalding pair go 13-11 up going into the last end. With Stephen and Graham holding one shot, Mellors actually had a shot to take the bowl out to win the game but as his final bowl narrowly missed, Stephen and Graham could start their celebrations as they won the British Isles pairs title. 

The girls had an equally impressive couple of days. Unfortunately, Ruby lost in the quarter final of the ladies junior singles, 13-21 against Lowri Powell from Wales. Ruby, Chelsea and Annie faired better in the triples though. Their first game was against a Scottish triple skipped by Catherine McIntosh. The Spalding trio were too strong as they ran out 19-10 winners. This proved to be the case again as they played against a strong Wales team which consisted of twins, Kelly and Kerry Packwood and Amy Williams who won the ladies singles title the day after. Ruby, Chelsea and Annie were always in front as they won 17-6 to book their place in the final against Ireland. Not phased by the occasion, the girls raced into a 10-0 lead but they were pegged back to 10-7 and 12-10. That’s as good as it got for Ireland though as Ruby, Chelsea and Annie won 14-11 and lifted the British Isles triples title. 

Well done to you all. Another proud day for the club! 

Ladies International Series 

On Monday 10th and Tuesday 11th October 2022, the Ladies International Series opened up the start of an entertaining international week at Belfast Indoor Bowls Club. Ruby Hill, Chelsea Spencer and Annie Dunham all retained their places in the England team. Ruby led a rink with Laura Holden, Rebecca Willgress and Michelle Coleman. Annie skipped a rink with Cassidy Hampton, new cap Hayley Robinson and team captain, Sandy Hazell. Chelsea skipped her own rink for the first time with Devon Cooper and new caps, Chloe Brett, daughter of former world champion Nicky Brett, and Anna Chalk. 

The first day saw mixed emotions for England as they beat Ireland 144-80 but lost to Scotland 112-128. Ruby’s rink enjoyed two wins, 20-10 and 24-19, Annie won one (22-14), lost one (15-19), whilst Chelsea had two close games but drew one (17-17), lost one (20-22). With losing against Scotland, it meant that to win the series, England needed to beat Wales and for Ireland to beat Scotland which was extremely unlikely. 

Whilst Ireland stayed in the match and were actually only 10 shots behind at ten ends, Scotland finished stronger to win 147-79. With both matches in progress at the same time, England had to focus on beating Wales which is exactly what they did, by an impressive 60 shot margin, 150-90. Annie and Chelsea both enjoyed rink wins, 31-13 and 24-11 respectively but Ruby’s rink narrowly lost 19-21. 

Scotland won the ladies international series for the first time since 2017. 

Top Club Result 

On Sunday 9th October 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club started their mixed top club campaign with a comfortable first round home win against Peterborough. Spalding are no strangers to success in this competition as they have been national champions twice, in 2015 and 2021. 

With wins in both singles, pairs and triples, Spalding won 12-4 to safely book their place in the next round where they will play at home against Melton on Sunday 23rd October 2022. 

Rink Scores:

Ladies Singles – Louise Harris – Won 21-19

Mens Singles – Stephen Harris – Won 21-10

Pairs – Jean Patterson and Dominic McVittie – Won 34-8

Triples – Tracy Philpott, Matt Whyers and Jordan Philpott – Won 31-5

Fours – Karen Martin, Julie Hicks, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Lost 11-13 

County Mixed League Result 

Also on Sunday 9th October 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club played their first game of the mixed county league at home against Grantham. Spalding enjoyed a comfortable win on all rinks, winning 118-44 on aggregate and securing all 14 available match points. Top winning rink was skipped by David Nunney, with Carole Nunney, Abs Belding and Betty Deaton who won 31-7. 

Rink Scores:

C. Nunney, A. Belding, B. Deaton and D. Nunney – Won 31-7

J. Sinclair, G. Deaton, M. Wheatley and M. Jennings – Won 32-10

T. Westland, P. Ault, M. Belding and G. Wright – Won 29-12

A. Newbury, S. Chamberlain, M. Dolton and A. Cronin – Won 26-15

U26 International Series 

The weekend of Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd October 2022 saw Ffrith IBC in Wales host the mens U26 international series and West Denton IBC the ladies U26 series. Both series were re-arranged from February 2022 when a rise in Covid cases caused concern and reason for them to be postponed. The series also saw an introduction of a new rule which allowed mid-match substitutions. Spalding was well represented as Ruby Hill played for the girls and Jordan Philpott and Stephen Harris played for the boys. Jordan also had the honour of captaining the team in his final year in this age group. 

Starting with the girls, Ruby played number 3 to Rachel Tremlett (St. Neots), with Leah Bamford (Folkestone) and Jasmine Wilson (Huntingdon) at the front end. The first game didn’t go to plan for the England girls as they lost a close encounter against Wales by six shots. The momentum switched on numerous occasions but it was England who led 21-16 and 34-32 at five and ten ends respectively. Wales took the lead 50-46 by 15 ends but England regained the lead 60-58 at 18 ends. Wales finished the stronger of the two teams to win 71-65. Unfortunately, Ruby’s rink lost 10-18. England bounced back well in the afternoon game against Ireland to give them a glimmer of hope going into the last game of the series. England started well and were always in front as they won by 50 shots (106-56). Ruby’s rink won 25-8 but England’s Anna Chalk had an impressive 40-6 rink win. Scotland beat both Ireland and Wales which meant that England had to beat Scotland in the final match to give them any chance of winning the series on shot difference. 

England took a narrow lead at five ends (23-22) but Scotland seemed to stamp their authority on the match to lead 42-32 by ten ends. At this point, the England management made use of the new substitution rule and made changes to one rink. England were not willing to give up without a fight and had taken the lead by 15 ends, 56-53. This was extended by 18 ends before winning the match 79-72. Ruby’s rink drew 17-17. Wales beat Ireland which meant that England, Scotland and Wales all won two out of three games but England lifted the trophy and won the series on shot difference. This meant that England won the series for the fourth consecutive season. 

It was mixed emotions though as England boys lost out in their series against Scotland. Jordan skipped his own rink with Stephen leading. They had Isaac Jenner (Swale) at 2 and Adam Pitfield (Wellingborough) at 3. The England boys started well with a close win against Ireland (81-75) and finished strongly against Wales to win 76-61. Stephen and Jordan’s rink lost 18-20 against Ireland but won 19-16 against Wales. With Scotland also beating the other two nations, it set up a winner takes all clash between the two auld enemies. The match was highly competitive throughout and at five ends, there was nothing to choose between the two teams (17-17). Scotland were 42-35 by ten ends and 61-52 at 15 ends. The match was probably won between 15 and 18 though as Scotland extended their lead to 81-59 before closing out the match, winning by 27 shots (95-68). Stephen and Jordan’s rink drew 21-21. This meant that Scotland won the series for the first time since 2015. 

Despite England missing out on the series win, Stephen was awarded with both the BIIBC and England Player of the Series trophies. 

County League 

This week saw the start of the Lincolnshire county league fixtures. On Thursday 29th September 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club hosted Sleaford in the over 60s county league. Spalding took a narrow lead early on, 22-19, but this was extended to 58-39 before winning overall 84-66. Spalding won on three of the four rinks and won 12-2 on points. Top winning rink was skipped by Graham Wright, with Derek Overton, Roger Perkins and Robin Roffe, who won 27-16. 

Rink Scores

D. Overton, R. Perkins, R. Roffe & G. Wright – Won 27-16

W. Hodges, G. Deaton, R. Billingsley & M. Jennings – Won 23-15 

M. Taylor, P. Turner, T. Windsor & C. Stagles – Won 19-14

T. Westland, A. Belding, G. Hicks & D. Nunney – Lost 15-21

Saturday saw the mens team host Stamford “A” in their first match of the season. Spalding were dominant from the start against the defended champions and at 8 ends, were 54-15 up. Winning on all rinks, the final score was 117-46 and Spalding won 14-0 on points. Top winning rink was skipped by Simon Lilley, with Kevin Ekins, Tony Westland and new member, Dan Mills, who had an impressive 34-10 rink win.

Rink Scores

K. Ekins, T. Westland, D. Mills & S. Lilley – Won 34-10

J. Wells, O. Stanley, B. Martin & D. McVittie – Won 33-12

J. Teesdale, R. Roffe, A. Cronin & D. Nunney – Won 23-9

N. Puttrell, A. Belding, K. Jackson & G. Hicks – Won 27-15

Well done to everyone involved! 

Club Finals Weekend 

Over the weekend of Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th April 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club held their club finals. Congratulations to our club champions and commiserations to the runners up. 

Men’s Competitions 

Singles Winner: Dominic McVittie; Runner Up: Graham Smith 

Pairs Winners: Kevin Ekins and Andy Dunham; Runners Up: Lewis Parnell and Dale Parnell 

Triples Winners: Harry Mycock, Andy Dunham and Dominic McVittie; Runners Up: Brian Martin, Martin Simpson and Simon Lilley 

Fours Winners: Harry Mycock, Martin Simpson, Andy Dunham and Dominic McVittie; Runners Up: Dave Murray, Alan Tokley, Terry Windsor and Gavin Staite 

Mixed and Open Competitions 

Mixed Pairs Winners: Julie Hicks and Graham Hicks; Runners Up: Sue Slayvan and Tony Westland 

Mixed Fours Winners: Brian Hodges, Maggie Wheatley, Trish Stafford and Ian Stafford; Runners Up: Jean Patterson, Betty Deaton, Roger Roffe and Graham Hicks 

Rabbits Singles Winner: Ollie Jeapes; Runner Up: Michael Jeapes 

Under 25 Singles Winner: Ollie Jeapes; Runner Up: Harry Mycock 

Over 60 Singles Winner: Martin Simpson; Runner Up: Julie Hicks 

101 Singles Winner: Simon Lilley; Runner Up: Dominic McVittie 

101 Pairs Winners: Ruby Hill and Jordan Philpott; Runners Up: Harry Mycock and Dominic McVittie 

Family Pairs Winners: Lewis Parnell and Dale Parnell; Runners Up: Abs Belding and Maisie Belding 

Veteran Pairs Winners: Jean Patterson and Cliff Searson; Runners Up: Terry Windsor and Gavin Staite 

Ladies Competitions 

Singles Winner: Chelsea Tomlin; Runner Up: Ruby Hill 

Pairs Winners: Carole Nunney and Julie Hicks; Runners Up: Dee Brinkman and Hazel Tokley 

Triples Winners: Carole Nunney, Betty Deaton and Julie Hicks; Runners Up: Petrine Ault, Maggie Wheatley and Lily Drawbridge 

Fours Winners: Carole Nunney, Petrine Ault, Betty Deaton and Julie Hicks; Runners Up: Chris Williamson, Jan Sinclair, Jenny Horner and Maisie Belding 

Drawn Pairs Winners: Jan Sinclair and Barbara Cave; Runners Up: Sue Slayvan and Sue Cooper 

County Finals 

On Saturday 23rd April 2022, Lincoln Indoor Bowls Club hosted the men’s and ladies county finals day. Spalding were well represented but had a mixed bag of results. 

Spalding’s successes all came in singles events. Chelsea Tomlin won the ladies singles, beating Lin Mountain from Lincoln, 21-8 and Ruby Hill beat Boston’s Katherine Rockall to win the ladies under 25 singles title. Dominic McVittie won the county sets singles after beat Kevin Rands from Lincoln in a close encounter on a tie break. Stephen Harris won the under 25 singles title after beating Lincoln’s James Staples in straight sets. It was also a proud day for the Mycock family and brother and sister duo, Harry and Ruby, won the senior and junior under 18 singles titles respectively. Harry beat Owen Aspinall from Stamford, 21-7 whilst sister Ruby beat Harvey Parker from Sutton St. James 21-13 in her final. 

There were some disappointments though as Spalding were involved in four losing finals. Martin Simpson lost in the over 60s singles final, 9-16 against Paul Bark from Horncastle. Bark partnered Keith Jackman as they beat Brian Martin and Jordan Philpott, 16-18 in the men’s pairs final. Lewis Parnell, Andy Dunham and Kevin Ekins lost in the men’s triples final against John Nott, Danny Brown and George Draper from Lincoln, 14-20. Finally, fresh from their successes in the morning session, Hill and Tomlin suffered a single shot defeat, 11-12 in the ladies pairs final against Sheila Plaskitt and Lin Mountain from Lincoln. 

County League News

On Tuesday 19th April 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s ladies played in the Trudy Bates county final at Sleaford. Spalding won the south division and their opposition in the final were the north section winners from Lincoln. Unfortunately, Spalding were always behind on aggregate, albeit only between 8 and 15 shots. The match did get exciting as the deficit was reduced to a single shot at one stage but this was short lived as Lincoln finished the better of the two teams, Spalding eventually losing 65-84. 

Spalding captain, Julie Hicks, congratulated Lincoln on their win, thanked Sleaford for the hospitality and also her players for their commitment throughout the season. 

Rink Scores
Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault, Maggie Wheatley and Barbara Hurst – Won 17-11
Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley, Trish Stafford and Betty Deaton – Lost 20-24
Freda Lyon, Jan Sinclair, Sandra Hammond and Maisie Belding – Lost 17-25
Carole Nunney, Sheila Chamberlain, Chris Jackson and Julie Hicks – Lost 11-20 

Also on Tuesday, our men’s county league team ended their season in style at home against Boston “A”. Despite being 14-0 down after only one end on each rink, Spalding were generally in control before closing out a 15 shot victory, 85-70 and claiming 12 of the 14 available match points. Spalding ended up in third place of the county’s south section, only three points behind Stamford “A” and Boston “A” with Stamford “A” winning the section on shot difference. 

Rink Scores
George Almey, Jack Wells, Brian Martin and Dominic McVittie – Won 24-19
Tony Westland, Tim Roger’s, David Nunney and Kevin Ekins – Won 23-16
Nathan Puttrell, Anthony Cronin, Mike Robertson and Simon Lilley – Lost 13-23
Robin Roffe, Abs Belding, Ian Stafford and Martin Simpson – Won 25-12 

Finally, well done to our mixed team who have won the south section of the mixed county league. The success was made even more impressive given the team’s outstanding home record where they won all five fixtures and gaining 67 points from a possible 70. That’s only one rink loss and one draw from 20 rinks. 

Hartlepool Open Success 

Over Easter weekend, Hartlepool Indoor Bowls Club hosted their open singles on the Friday which is part of the EIBA (English Indoor Bowling Association) Open Singles Circuit and was followed by their 49th International Masters Pairs Tournament on the Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Spalding were well represented and were successful in both events. 

Spalding’s Dominic McVittie came away with the singles crown and was joined by Martin Spencer to win the pairs tournament. 

In the singles event, McVittie came through his first three rounds with apparent ease, beating Gary McPheaters 2-0 (11-2, 9-1), Josh Minto 1.5-0.5 (9-0, 6-6) and Mark Goodfellow 2-0 (9-5, 8-4). Also through to the quarter final was Spalding’s Jordan Philpott who also had an excellent run. Philpott enjoyed a comfortable win against Scotland’s Stevie Rankin whilst McVittie beat the host club’s Glenn Skipp in straight sets 2-0 (10-5, 8-6). This set up a very impressive semi-final line up where Philpott was matched up against Jamie Walker, who has recently been selected to represent England at the 2022 Commonwealth Games whilst McVittie took on England international, David Bolt from South Shields. Unfortunately, Philpott’s run came to an end at the semi-final stage and found Walker in top form. McVittie on the other hand had an exceptional game against Bolt, winning in straight sets but on the deciding end of each set, securing a place in the final 2-0 (6-5, 7-6). 

The final was eagerly anticipated and the crowd were not disappointed by two players at the top of their form. It was Walker who started the better of the two players, taking the first set 7-5 but McVittie did not let that phase him as he took the second 8-1 to take the match into a three end tie break which went to the final end. McVittie held shot before Walker drew close with his third bowl of the end. The players nor the marker were completely sure who was shot but McVittie took matters into his own hands. He played a perfect runner with his last bowl of the match to put the jack in the ditch and sit approximately six inches away, making it nearly impossible for Walker to retrieve the shot. Walker missed out with his last and McVittie won the Hartlepool Open Singles title for the first time. 

For the rest of the weekend, the attention turned to the pairs tournament where Spencer and McVittie enjoyed success. With 16 teams in each group, every pair played six games, three on Saturday, three on Sunday, aiming to make top four of the group to qualify for the knockout finals day on Monday. On Saturday, Spencer and McVittie put themselves in an excellent position, beating Paul Wallace and Mark Irwin, 9-7, Dale Oram and Steve Tindale, 28-5 and Sam O’Donnell and Jonathan Ross, 15-10. They followed them up with three more wins against T. Sclater and M. McGowan, 12-10, Stevie Rankin and Derek McClue, 9-5 and Rae Graham and Eddie Murray, 13-8. Also enjoying six wins from six games in the group was Jordan Philpott who partnered Hartlepool’s Carl Higgins who came second in the group with Spencer and McVittie third and both qualifying for the finals day of the tournament. 

Unfortunately, Higgins and Philpott lost at the quarter final stage, 5-14 against Paul Hartley and David Bolt but Spencer and McVittie progressed as they beat Daniel Poole and Graham Vipond, 12-6. Again, the semi-final competitors were of the highest quality as the Spalding pair took on Josh Minto and Martin Heitzman, who topped the group the day before. Spencer and McVittie raced into an 11-0 lead before their opposition acknowledged defeat, 14-3 with a couple of ends to spare. The other semi-final saw Matt Pownall and Jamie Walker beat Hartley and Bolt, 11-10. The final was extended to 15 ends after playing 12 ends or 90 minutes for the rest of the weekend. 

Walker would have no doubt been out for revenge after his singles final defeat to McVittie but Spencer and McVittie started the better by collecting a count of four shots on the very first end. Pownall and Walker fought back to 4-4 at four ends but that’s as good as it got as the Spalding pair complimented each other exceptionally well to outclass their opposition and eventually win the final 18-6 when the match was conceded after 12 ends. Spencer and McVittie won the 49th International Masters Pairs Tournament for the first time and will join good company on the honours list which includes a number of world champions. 

Denny Cup Champions 

On Saturday 9th April 2022, it was a historic day for Spalding Indoor Bowls Club as they won the Denny Cup – deemed the FA Cup of bowls – for the first time. With wins throughout the season against Peterborough (116-52), Stamford (81-67), Leicester (88-49), Lincoln (85-53), South Shields Vipers (89-80) and Wey Valley (72-61), Spalding set up a final clash against Norfolk IBC, who were already twice beaten finalists in this competition in 2016 and 2018. The Denny Cup is the most prestigious club knockout event and has been played for since the 1934/35 season. 

The atmosphere was electric and cheered on by their travelling supporters, Spalding won the early exchanges and made a dream start in their first Denny Cup final. The rink skipped by Jordan Philpott started exceptionally well as they raced into an 11-1 lead at five ends. All four rinks complimented each other and the team spirit was evident as they raced into a 20 shot lead (40-20). The lead stayed between 15 and 20 shots for some time until Spalding pressed on again, mainly thanks to the rink skipped by Mathew Orrey, with Stephen Harris, 12 year old Ollie Jeapes and Graham Smith who eventually won their rink, 25-7. Norfolk soon acknowledged defeat and conceded when Spalding were 80-44 ahead with only 12 ends left to play across the board. Making the win even more impressive was that all four rinks returned winning scorecards. 

Having had time to reflect on a fantastic day in the club’s history, club captain Graham Smith said: “Never in my wildest dreams did I think we would ever get a chance to win the Denny Cup. It was an absolute magical moment for me. Thank you to all my players for their enthusiasm and team spirit for the whole season, not just in the final. Not much I can say other than I’m a very proud captain!” 

Rink Scores
Stephen Harris, Ollie Jeapes, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Won 25-7
Kevin Ekins, Simon Lilley, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott – Won 19-11
Harry Mycock, Lewis Parnell, Andy Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Won 18-12
Brian Martin, Mike Robertson, Ean Morton and Tristan Morton – Won 18-14 

County Semi-Finals

On Sunday 3rd April 2022, Lincolnshire county semi-finals were played at Stamford Indoor Bowls Club. It was a very mixed bag of results for our Spalding players but we do have representatives in five county finals. 

Brian Martin and Jordan Philpott will contest the pairs final after the beat Sam Ashton and George Draper in the semi-final, 20-6. They will play Keith Jackman and Paul Bark from Horncastle. Lewis Parnell, Andy Dunham and Kevin Ekins are in the triples final after a tense extra end semi-final win against 2009 world singles champion, Billy Jackson and his rink from Lincoln. In the final, they will play another rink from Lincoln skipped by George Draper, with John Nott and Danny Brown, who beat Spalding’s Graham Smith, Martin Spencer and Mathew Orrey in their semi-final by a single shot, 17-16. In the sets singles, Dominic McVittie will play Kevin Rands from Lincoln after McVittie beat Boston’s Ian Clark in straight sets in his semi-final. In the under 25 singles, there was an all Spalding semi-final clash between Stephen Harris and Jordan Philpott. Harris came out on top in a close encounter, 1.5-0.5 and will now play James Staples from Lincoln in the final. Our final county finalist was secured by Martin Simpson in the over 60 singles. He beat John Maury from Sleaford, 16-12 and will play Horncastle’s Paul Bark in the final. Ruby Hill and Jordan Philpott were also in the mixed pairs semi-final but was narrowly edged out by Colin Barks and his partner from Dunholme. 

County finals will be played at Lincoln on Saturday 23rd April 2022. Good luck to everyone involved! 

Trudy Bates Report 

On Thursday 31st March 2022, Spalding ladies played their final Trudy Bates league fixture of the season at home to Boston. With five regular players out and recovering from Covid, it was certainly a new look Spalding team with only one rink staying the same. Spalding never let Boston settle and were 36 shots ahead at the halfway stage. The lead was extended in the second half to eventually win by 45 shots (90-45), collect the 14 available match points and win the south section of the county Trudy Bates league. Everyone certainly played their part but the top winning rink was skipped by Barbara Hurst, with Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault and Maggie Wheatley who returned a 26-8 winning scorecard. Over the season, Spalding ladies have impressively won seven out of eight matches. Spalding will now play Lincoln, the winners of the north section in the county final on Tuesday 19th April at Sleaford Indoor Bowls Club. 

Ladies captain Julie Hicks, would like to thank all the ladies who have played and supported the Trudy Bates squad and national team competitions throughout the season. 

Rink Scores
Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault, Maggie Wheatley and Barbara Hurst – Won 26-8
Ann Newbury, Sue Slayven, Val Bowker and Betty Deaton – Won 27-14
Chris Williamson, Jan Sinclair, Sandra Hammond and Chris Jackson – Won 17-12
Sheila Chamberlain, Janet Howitt, Carole Nunney and Julie Hicks – Won 20-11

National Two Bowl Singles Glory for Chelsea 

There was further national success for Spalding Indoor Bowls Club as Chelsea Tomlin came home from Nottingham with the two bowl singles title on Wednesday 30th March 2022.  

In a field that was full of current junior and senior internationals, Tomlin eased her way to the final with wins against Gillian Cliff from Bromsgrove (21-14), Leah Bamford from Folkestone (21-14) and a comfortable semi-final win against Alice Lovett from Loddon Vale (21-7). In the final, she faced fellow senior international, Nicole Rogers from Exonia, Devon, who had just battled herself through a tense semi-final encounter against current ladies world champion, Katherine Rednall, 21-19. With both Rogers (2018) and Tomlin (2019) both former champions in this event, they were both hungry to win it for a second time. 

The final was destined to go the distance but the early exchanges were won by Rogers as she raced into a six shot lead, 8-2 and 12-6 later on. Tomlin was not willing to give up without a fight and the gap was closed slightly to within four shots (13-17) before she stepped up a gear to score eight shots without reply to win 21-17. 

Tomlin made it a two bowl singles championship double after she won it for the first time in 2019. 

Liberty Trophy Champions 

On Saturday 26th March 2022, the national bowls finals at Nottingham kicked off with the Liberty Trophy final between Lincolnshire and Surrey. This competition is the main inter-county knockout event and Lincolnshire had beaten Yorkshire, Cumbria and Northamptonshire to reach the final. Lincolnshire went into the final arguably as favourites and were aiming to make it a hat trick of titles after winning the trophy in 1981 and 2018 whilst Surrey were playing in their first final since they won it back in 1978. 

Twelve of Spalding’s stars were selected in the 24 man squad. In the final, Lincolnshire soon got in their stride and even though the early exchanges were close, Lincolnshire extended their lead to 45-25, mainly thanks to the rinks skipped by Tristan Morton and Mark Dawes. Surrey did reduce the deficit to 14 shots at one stage but that’s as close as it got. Cheered on by their supporters, Lincolnshire reduced the hopes of the Surrey players as the match was conceded with 13 ends still left to play across the board and Lincolnshire 44 shots (125-81) ahead. This secured a third Liberty Trophy title in the county’s history. 

Congratulations to everyone involved in what was a great day for Lincolnshire bowls!

Rink Scores (from Spalding unless specified):
Martin Pulling (Grantham), Alex Tomlin (Boston), Martin Spencer, Mathew Orrey – Won 20-10
Jonathan West (Boston), Nick Orrey (Lincoln), Andy Dunham, Dominic McVittie – Won 19-13
Ian Clark (Boston), Dean Stevenson (Lincoln), Kevin Rands (Lincoln), Billy Jackson (Lincoln) – Won 20-13
Stephen Harris, Simon Lilley, Graham Smith, Jordan Philpott – Lost 14-21
Paul Dalliday (Stamford), Simon Law (Stamford), Ean Morton, Tristan Morton – Won 26-11
Terry Berridge (Grantham), Kevin Ekins, Paul Roberts (Sleaford), Mark Dawes – Won 26-13 

Under 18 Inter-County Double Triples 

Following the Liberty success the day before, it was the turn of the county under 18s on Sunday 27th March 2022 in the semi-final and final of the inter-county double triples competition. Spalding’s Harry Mycock skipped one of the rinks whilst Ollie Jeapes led in the other rink skipped by Daniel Stanley from Louth. 

Lincolnshire’s semi-final opponents were Suffolk. In a match that had it all, the spectators were on the edge of their seats and no doubt some mothers proud to be watching their children play in their first national championships on Mother’s Day. With Mycock’s rink finished having won 21-18, there was three shots in the game with Stanley’s rink playing their last end. With one bowl in hand, Stanley found himself three down and the match facing an extra end. Stanley had other ideas as he kept his cool to draw third bowl and secure Lincolnshire’s place in the final against a strong Kent team. 

Unfortunately, Kent did prove too strong in the afternoon’s final. Everyone played their part in a highly contested match but the Kent rink skipped by under 25 international, Isaac Jenner, pulled away from Mycock and his rink, 7-24. Stanley’s rink did manage a 23-17 rink win but Kent ran out 41-30 winners. 

Well done to all players – fantastic achievement to get to the final in itself! 

Trudy Bates Report 

On Thursday 17th March 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s ladies continued their winning streak in theIr Trudy Bates league match at home against Skegness. 

Spalding got off to a terrific start before Skegness got the measure of Spalding's green with only five shots in the aggregate at the half-way point. Spalding then moved into top gear and extended their lead before closing out an impressive 86-45 win. Although some of the rinks had to altered due to hospital appointments and Covid, Spalding adapted very well.

Spalding gained all 14 points to keep them at the top of the league with only one match left against Boston, their nearest rivals, at home on Thursday 31st March 2022. 

Rink Scores:
Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault, Maggie Wheatley and Barbara Hurst – Won 27 - 5 
Freda Lyon, Jenny Collins, Jan Sinclair and Maisie Belding – Won 20 – 13 
Judy Jackson, Michelle Billingsley, Trish Stafford and Betty Deaton – Won 17 - 15 
Ann Newbury, Carole Nunney, Sandra Hammond and Chris Jackson – Won 22 – 12

Friendly Presidents Match 

On Tuesday 15th March 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club played the President's Challenge match where the Ladies of the club under the guidance of the Ladies President Julie Hicks play against the men of the club captained by the Club President Roger Perkins in what can only be called a gender needle match. 

This is an annual event that has been curtailed for two years by the awful Covid epidemic. Judging by the endeavours on the green the delay has only fuelled the efforts of both sides to come out supreme. It was a closely contested game played in the best of spirit and laughter could be heard as was the good natured jeering. The ladies took the early lead and it looked as though the men were in trouble. At the fifth end the ladies were three shots ahead and by the tenth end they still clung on to a five shot lead. However the men were not going to roll over and dug their heels in to close the game out and win 85-77, winning on three of the six rinks and drawing on one, much to the disappointment of the ladies. Winning rink for the ladies was Jean Patterson, Carole Nunney, Janet Howitt and skip Barbara Hurst. Winners for the men being John Rawding, Geoff Patterson, Chris Stagles and skip David Nunney. The game was followed by a meal and accompanied by an excellent raffle supplied by the members which raised a massive £168.00.  Altogether a most rewarding and enjoyable day!

Liberty Trophy Result 

On Saturday 5th March 2022, twelve of Spalding’s bowlers helped Lincolnshire to a national semi-final win in the Liberty Trophy away against Northamptonshire. The Liberty Trophy is the main inter-county knockout event and Lincolnshire were looking for revenge after Northamptonshire beat them in the final back in 2015 which was the last time the two teams met. Lincolnshire stamped their authority on the match from the outset, mainly thanks to the rink skipped by Spalding’s Jordan Philpott who went 12-0 up after only four ends against Northamptonshire’s England international, Andrew Manton. Lincolnshire held between a 10 and 20 shot advantage throughout the match and as the rink skipped by Mark Dawes extended their lead, Northamptonshire conceded when Lincolnshire were 36 shots ahead (127-91). Lincolnshire will play Surrey in the national final at Nottingham on Saturday 26th March 2022 at 1pm. 

Rink Scores (Spalding unless stated)

Stephen Harris, Simon Lilley, Graham Smith, Jordan Philpott – Won 32-12

Alan Dent Jnr (Louth), Alex Tomlin (Boston), Martin Spencer, Mathew Orrey – Lost 14-19

Ian Clark (Boston), Dean Stevenson (Lincoln), Martin Pulling (Grantham), Billy Jackson (Lincoln) – Won 15-14

Terry Berridge (Grantham), Kevin Ekins, Paul Roberts (Sleaford), Mark Dawes – Won 33-11

Paul Dalliday (Stamford), Simon Law (Stamford), Ean Morton, Tristan Morton – Lost 16-19

Jonathan West (Boston), Nick Orrey (Lincoln), Andy Dunham, Dominic McVittie – Won 17-16

Friendly Report

On Sunday 27th February 2022, the friendly section of the Spalding Indoor Bowls Club played host to the team of the Lincolnshire Vice Presidents, a team made up of bowlers from throughout Lincolnshire. The team are regular visitors to Spalding as they feel we are so friendly and obliging making the game a social and friendly affair. It was not the VP's day as despite their best efforts they really struggled to remain in contention with the Spalding team and the game closed with a score of 154-67 in Spalding’s favour. The large difference in the scores was not reflected in the quality of play and the social experience.  Spalding's top winning rink for the game was made up of Roger Perkins, Jenny Wakefield, Abs Belding and skip Lily Drawbridge. Captain for the day was Roger Perkins, ably assisted by Edna Perkins.

Liberty Trophy Result 

On Sunday 20th February 2022, eleven of Spalding’s bowlers helped Lincolnshire to a national quarter final win in the Liberty Trophy against Cumbria. Lincolnshire were inter-county national champions last in 2018. On Sunday, Lincolnshire were always in control against Cumbria after taking an early 20 shot lead. Cumbria battled back to within eight shots but Lincolnshire pulled away again to secure a comfortable 21 shot (117-96) victory and book their place in the semi final where they will face Northamptonshire on Saturday 5th March 2022 away at Northampton IBC. 

Rink Scores (Spalding unless stated)

Stephen Harris, Richard Ashton (Lincoln), Paul Roberts (Sleaford), Graham Smith – Won 18-17

Alan Dent Jnr (Louth), Alex Tomlin (Boston), Martin Spencer, Mathew Orrey – Won 22-17

Ian Clark (Boston), Dean Stevenson (Lincoln), Kevin Rands (Lincoln), Billy Jackson (Lincoln) – Won 24-18

Terry Berridge (Grantham), Kevin Ekins, Jordan Philpott, Mark Dawes – Won 22-11

Paul Dalliday (Stamford), Simon Law (Stamford), Ean Morton, Tristan Morton – Won 16-12 

Andy Dunham, Nick Orrey (Lincoln), Martin Pulling (Grantham), Dominic McVittie – Lost 15-21 

Mixed League Result 

Also on Sunday 20th February 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club had a mixed county league fixture away at Skegness. Spalding lost a close game by five shots (67-72) and were even leading for the majority of the fixture. Although two rinks lost and one drew, Spalding did have one winning rink skipped by Graham Wright, with Tony Westland, Maggie Wheatley and Barbara Hurst who had an impressive 22-10 rink win. The final match score was 11-3 in the favour of Skegness. Spalding remain second in the south section, only three points behind Boston. The next mixed county league fixture is at home to Grantham on Sunday 6th March 2022. 

Junior Bowls Cheque Presentation 

Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s junior bowlers have recently been presented with a cheque for £200 from a representative from Howdens Joinery in Spalding to purchase new shirts for the junior section of the club. Howdens Joinery are a supplier of kitchens and joinery products to the building trade. Spalding’s under 25 bowls co-ordinator, Colin Wilson, was presented with the cheque from Mr Mateusz Opiela of Howdens. 

Denny Cup Delight 

On Saturday 12th February 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club progressed to the Denny Cup final for the first time in the club’s 50 year history. The Denny Cup is the FA Cup of bowls and Spalding played in the semi-final for the first time since 1979. The trophy will have a new name on it as Spalding’s final opponents are Norfolk IBC who are twice runners up of the competition. 

Spalding’s semi-final opponents were Wey Valley IBC from Surrey. It was described by many of the players and spectators that it was the best atmosphere they have experienced and was likened to an international series. Whilst Spalding have some very good players, they were underdogs in this tie as Wey Valley have reached the later stages on a number of occasions. 

Spalding started well on all four rinks and held a two shot advantage (18-16) at five ends. This was extended to 37-24 at ten ends as Spalding’s stars began to pile the pressure on. Wey Valley were not willing to give up without a fight and at 18 ends, had clawed back to within six shots which set up a tense final few ends. This did close to within three shots but driven by the support of the spectators, some outstanding bowls from the Spalding team meant that they were eleven up (72-61) when the four hour time limit ran out. 

Everyone played their part in a great day in the club’s history but the top winning rink was skipped by Dominic McVittie, who had a fantastic game with his rink of Harry Mycock, Lewis Parnell and Andy Dunham and returned a winning scorecard of 21-13. A special mention has to go out to both Spalding youngsters, 13 year old Ollie Jeapes and 18 year old Harry Mycock, who conducted themselves well in a pressure game and enjoyed such a fantastic experience. 

Sophie Morton Photography also has to be credited for the brilliant action shots. 

The final will be played at Nottingham IBC against Norfolk on Saturday 9th April 2022 at 6pm. If you are at a loose end, this will not be one to miss! 

Rink Scores

Harry Mycock, Lewis Parnell, Andy Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Won 21-13

Stephen Harris, Ollie Jeapes, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Won 20-15

Brian Martin, Mike Robertson, Ean Morton and Tristan Morton – Won 19-14

Simon Lilley, Martin Simpson, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott – Lost 12-19

National Champion of Champions Finals 

Over the weekend of Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th February 2022, Graham Smith and Chelsea Tomlin represented Spalding at the men’s and women’s national champion of champions finals respectively after winning a series of qualifying games throughout the season. 

They both got through the first day with relative ease. In the last 16, Smith beat J. Brennan from Worthing Pavilion (21-10) and followed it up with a win In the quarter final against S. Cook of Colchester (21-15). Tomlin also breezed through the same rounds beating S. Walter from Wealden (21-4) and S. Entwistle from Redcar (21-7). 

In the semi-finals on Sunday, Smith played Tom Segolo from Norfolk whilst Tomlin played Kirsty Mann from Beccles. Unfortunately, Tomlin lost out in an epic encounter 21-18 where many spectators commented that it should have been the final. Mann went on to win the final comfortably, 21-7. Smith faired better in his semi-final. He as always in control as he won 21-15 and set up a final clash against international colleague Matt Whyers from Boston. This meant that the winner of the title would come from Lincolnshire for the first time since the 1999/2000 season. In the final, Whyers started the better of the two players and Smith was always chasing. Whyers picked up a crucial four shots to go 17-7 up. Smith did show his fighting qualities as he reduced the deficit to 17-13 however, Whyers closed out the match well to win 21-13 and claim the title of national champion of champions for the first time. It certainly goes some way to make up for Whyers’s defeat in the national singles final in October 2021 where he lost against Huntingdon’s Nicky Brett. 

Well done and hard luck to both Chelsea and Graham on a great run but congratulations to Matt – enjoy your celebrations! 

Trudy Bates Result 

On Thursday 3rd February 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s ladies had another good result in the Trudy Bates away at Boston. The match was closely contested throughout with Spalding generally in front. At the halfway stage, Spalding were winning on two rinks, level on another and down on the last by two shots. Four ends later, Spalding were one shot behind on aggregate but a big push on the last three ends by the rinks skipped by Betty Deaton and Maisie Belding, scoring seven and six shots respectively put Spalding back in charge where they eventually won 71-63. Spalding also collected twelve of the available fourteen points. The top winning rink was skipped by Julie Hicks, with Sheila Chamberlain, Chris Jackson and Jenny Horner who won 20-11. After five group games, Boston remain top by three points with three games left to play. Next up is a home game against Grantham on Thursday 24th February 2022. 

Rink Scores

Sheila Chamberlain, Chris Jackson, Jenny Horner and Julie Hicks – Won 20-11

Freda Lyon, Jan Sinclair, Sandra Hammond and Maisie Belding – Won 18-13

Ann Newbury, Michelle Billingsley, Trish Stafford and Betty Deaton – Won 20-15

Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault, Maggie Wheatley and Barbara Hurst – Lost 13-24

Friendly Result 

On Saturday 5th February 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s friendly bowlers travelled to Peterborough. The side was captained by Paul Tuner and Tony Westland and was Paul’s first game in charge as friendly captain. At five ends, Spalding had already opened up a 34-13 lead which was extended to 61-29 by ten ends. The scoring increased dramatically as the lead was 113-49 by 15 ends before a final score of 123-55. Top winning rink was skipped by Rob West, with Chris Williamson and Paul Turner who had an impressive 33-3 rink win, having picked up 26 shots in ten ends without reply. Everyone who went to Peterborough enjoyed the company, meal and a large raffle. Particular thanks went out to Pat Cox who was a late replacement coming into the team late morning on the day. 

Denny Cup and Top Club Results

Over the weekend of Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th January 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club had mixed emotions as they played South Shields Vipers in the quarter final of both the Denny Cup and mixed Top Club at York & District Indoor Bowls Club. 

On Saturday, the men contested the Denny Cup inter-club knockout competition. South Shields Vipers were the beaten finalists in 2019 therefore, Spalding knew they were in for a battle. The atmosphere was electric and played in an excellent spirit by both teams. Spalding started the stronger of the two teams and had opened up a 30 shots lead by the half way mark. South Shields Vipers showed their fighting spirit as they closed the gap to within four shots as two rinks were playing their last end and one rink had two to play. The rinks skipped by Jordan Philpott and Tristan Morton scored an important treble and double respectively to put the team nine shots in front with one rink playing their last two ends. Mathew Orrey and his rink dropped a single on their penultimate end which meant that South Shields Vipers needed to score a rare full house of eight shots to take the match into an extra end. Spalding scored a single to win the match by nine shots (89-80) and book their place in the semi-final for the first time in recent years and believed to be the second time in the club’s history. Everyone played their part in an impressive victory but the main damage was done by the rink skipped by Jordan Philpott, with Kevin Ekins, Simon Lilley and Martin Spencer who beat South Shields Vipers star, David Bolt 25-17. Spalding’s semi-final opponents will be Wey Valley from Surrey on Saturday 12th February 2022 at a neutral green yet to be agreed. 

Rink Scores

Kevin Ekins, Simon Lilley, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott – Won 25-17

Stephen Harris, Martin Simpson, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Won 17-16

Brian Martin, Mike Robertson, Ean Morton and Tristan Morton – Won 22-21

Harry Mycock, Lewis Parnell, Andy Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Lost 25-26

On Sunday, Spalding’s mixed top club team attempted to continue the defence of their title but fell short on this occasion. Spalding recorded the first points of the match as Chelsea Tomlin and Stephen Harris won both the ladies and men’s singles 21-15 and 21-14 respectively. This meant that Spalding needed to win only one of the other disciplines (pairs, triples and fours) and win the overall aggregate however, South Shields Vipers were far too strong as they won the remaining disciplines and the match 12-4 on points without the aggregate even needing to come in to play. South Shields Vipers will now play Egham in the semi-final. Good luck to them for the rest of the competition. 

Rink Scores 

Ladies Singles – Chelsea Tomlin – Won 21-15

Men’s Singles – Stephen Harris – Won 21-14

Pairs – Louise Harris and Jordan Philpott – Lost 11-25

Triples – Andy Dunham, Annie Dunham and Martin Spencer – Lost 11-16

Fours – Jean Patterson, Karen Martin, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Lost 16-26

Trudy Bates Result 

On Thursday 27th January 2022, Spalding’s ladies played their fourth Trudy Bates match of the season away at Skegness. Three out of the four rinks were closely contested but two of them missed out on the last end. The big push came from the rink skipped by Barbara Hurst, who scored eleven shots on the last five ends. Top winning rink was skipped by Julie Hicks, with Carole Nunney, Sheila Chamberlain and Jenny Horner, who returned an impressive 29-10 scorecard ensuring that the aggregate was never in doubt. Spalding won the match 10-4 on points and the overall aggregate 89-65. The next match will be against Boston on Thursday 3rd February 2022. 

Rink Scores 

Carole Nunney, Sheila Chamberlain, Jenny Horner and Julie Hicks – Won 29-10

Jean Patterson, Petrine Ault, Maggie Wheatley and Barbara Hurst – Won 25-16

Freda Lyon, Jan Sinclair, Sandra Hammond and Maisie Belding – Lost 17-18

Ann Newbury, Judy Jackson, Trish Stafford and Betty Deaton – Lost 18-21 

National Under 25 Singles Finals January 22nd and 23rd 2022

Over the weekend of Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd January 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club were the proud hosts of the national under 25 singles finals. Spalding have always prided themselves on their junior section so to host such a prestigious event is only good for the club. The event was well supported and there were local interest with Jordan Philpott and Ruby Hill qualifying in the men’s and women’s events respectively. Unfortunately, Philpott lost in the quarter final of the men’s event however, we have more of a success story to report on with Ruby Hill as she became national under 25 singles champion for the first time.

In the last 16, Ruby played M. Linford from Acle. Despite drawing the first set, Ruby dominated the second set to win the match, 1.5-0.5 and set up a quarter final with Imogen Jenner from Swale. Ruby again showed her class to win in straight sets and secure her place in the semi-final where she would face Chloe Brett from Huntingdon, the daughter of former world champion, Nicky. The first set was closely contested but Ruby picked up a three on the final end to win the set 9-4. Ruby showed her dominance and controlled the second set, winning it with an end to spare. In the final, Ruby played fellow junior and senior international, and 2018/19 winner of the event, Devon Cooper from Hartlepool. The supporters were treated to a high quality affair but Ruby was fantastic from the very first end as she won the first set with two ends to spare. Devon put up more of a fight in the second set as she went 6-0 up after two ends but Ruby was far too good as she won the set 12-6 and win the championship match in straight sets and the title for the first time.

Ruby will also represent England in the British Isles Championships in October 2022.