Match Reports

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 

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 winning 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

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! 

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

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 

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 

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 

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 

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

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 

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

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 

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 

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 

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

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! 

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. 

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 

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

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

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.

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

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 

Denny Cup Result

On Saturday the 8th of January 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club won their last 16 clash against local rivals, Lincoln. The main damage was done by the two home rinks however, Spalding stamped their authority from the outset as they raced into a 28- 14 lead by five ends. This was extended to 51- 28 at ten ends and 68- 44 at 15 ends. With the score at 85- 53 and the four rinks having played a combination of 18 and 19 ends, Lincoln conceded the match. Although all rinks played their part, the top winning rink was skipped by Mathew Orrey, with Stephen Harris, Ollie Jeapes and Graham Smith who has an impressive 28- 11 rink win. In the quarter final, Spalding will now play South Shields Vipers on the 29th of January 2022.

Rink Scores:

Home

Stephen Harris, Ollie Jeapes, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Won 28-11

Kevin Ekins, Simon Lilley, Martin Spencer and Jordan Philpott – Won 24-8

Away

Brian Martin, Mike Robertson, Ean Morton and Tristan Morton – Won 21-12

Harry Mycock, Lewis Parnell, Andy Dunham and Dominic McVittie – Lost 12-22

Top Club Result

On Sunday the 9th of January 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s mixed top club team progressed to the quarter final and attempt to defend the national title they won in October 2021. Spalding beat Nottingham at home in their last 16 clash on shots, 87-81. Spalding were the first to put points on the board as Chelsea Tomlin and Stephen Harris won the ladies and men’s singles respectively. The singles being worth two points each, Spalding went 4-0 up. The mixed pairs, mixed triples and mixed fours are worth four points each, meaning that Spalding needed one of the remaining disciplines and the overall aggregate which is exactly what happened. Nottingham bounced back to take the pairs but Spalding next took the fours, leaving the triples last on the green. Although the Spalding triple were behind on their rink, they had the benefit of knowing that the overall aggregate would secure a place in the next round and with one end to play, Spalding were 85-81 in front. The head never set up for Nottingham and the Spalding triple picked up two shots to win the match. Next up are South Shields Vipers on the 30th of January 2022, the day after playing them in the Denny Cup.

Rink Scores:

Ladies Singles – Chelsea Tomlin – Won 21-8

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

Mixed Pairs – Ruby Hill and Jordan Philpott – Lost 12-19

Mixed Triples – Andy Dunham, Annie Dunham and Martin Spencer – Lost 16-22

Mixed Fours – Jean Patterson, Karen Martin, Graham Smith and Mathew Orrey – Won 17-12

Over 60s Result

On Tuesday the 4th of January 2022, Spalding Indoor Bowls Club’s over 60’s team continued their quest in the county league away at Grantham. The team was mainly made up of regular players however, a debut was handed to Alan Tokley. For several players, it was a return to bowls after a COVID influenced extended Christmas and new year break.

It took some time for the Spalding players to adjust to the longer and faster Grantham green however, by the 7th end, Spalding were winning on two rinks and down on the other two with the aggregate 27- 24 in Grantham’s favour. Grantham’s lead was extended 47- 39 by 12 ends but Spalding show their fighting qualities and by the 17th end were 58- 54 in front.

By the end of the game, Spalding won on three out of the four rinks and won 79- 67 on aggregate. Spalding also secured 12 of the 14 available points. The top winning rink was skipped by Mick Dolton, with Derek Overton, Alan Tokley and Rob West who had an impressive 26- 13 rink win.

Next up for Spalding over 60’s is an away trip to Sleaford on the 24th of January 2022.