Welcome to the May 2020 Newsletter.  This Newsletter will contain all information from 1st April 2020
 
Please scroll down for all information
 

Individual Successes in Sutton & District Bowling Association Competitions for current Men members since 2000

Year

Name

Competition

Year

Name

Competition

 

2002

Graham Pilbrow

Paston Cup Finalist

2014

John Huxford

Paston Cup Finalist

2008

Graham Pilbrow

Paston Cup Winner

2016

Martin Harbottle

Ted Peirce Singles Semi Finalist

2009

Graham Pilbrow

Paston Cup Winner

2018

Martin Harbottle

Ted Peirce Singles Winner

 

 

Individual Successes in Surrey for current Men members since 2000 (* Qualified for SCBA Badge)

 

Year

Name

Competition

Year

Name

Competition

 

2000

Les Owen

Surrey Singles ¼ Finalist

2015

Martin Harbottle

Surrey Secretaries Semi Finalist

2002

Graham Pilbrow

Surrey Singles ¼ Finalist

Surrey Champion of Champions ¼ Finalist

2016

John Meningen

Surrey Unbadged Singles Area Finalist*

2010

Pat Buckley

Surrey Unbadged Singles Semi Finalist*

2017

Martin Harbottle

Surrey Secretaries Area Finalist

2015

John Warren

Surrey Unbadged Singles Semi Finalist*

2019

Graham Coleman

Surrey Singles ¼ Finalist*

 

County Badge - Men

Members can enter the Surrey County Bowling Association Competitions each year.  Traditionally the Fours are held on a Monday night, Triples on a Tuesday night, Unbadged Singles on a Wednesday night, Pairs on a Thursday night & Open Singles on a Friday night.  There is also an Over 55’s Fours & Two Wood Singles Competition. You need to keep abreast of the dates for these last two Competitions when they are published. There is also a Competition for Secretaries of Clubs. Entries are made before Christmas of the preceding year & the draw comes out around April following.  The draw is published on line on the Surrey Website.  If you are new to bowling & need further information or need questions answered then do please ask those of us who have entered these Competitions for many years. When qualified you are then entitled to apply to play in Surrey matches against various Counties. However, there are some County matches you can apply for without having qualified for a County Badge.  Please ask for details. It is always the aim to qualify for the Surrey County Badge & these are the guidelines issued by the County.

The Council will award County Badges and Ties in accordance with the various competitions, as set out hereunder, to any player who in the:-

i. Open County Singles - reaches the last eight          ii. 2 Wood Singles- reaches the Semi-Final

iii. Pairs - reaches the last eight pairs                          iv. Triples - reaches the last four triples

v. Fours - reaches the last four fours                           vi. Senior Fours – reaches the Final

NB- To qualify for a County Badge in the County Pairs, Triples and Fours Competitions, a player must play in at least six winning rounds which may include byes and walk-overs. Should there be insufficient entries to ensure six winning rounds including byes and walkovers the player must reach the Final”.

vii. Secretaries competition - reaches the final            viii. Unbadged Singles competition - reaches the last eight

There are other ways to qualify & these can be viewed on the SCBA Website. These are mainly representative Surrey games (e.g. Middleton Cup).

Individual Successes in Surrey for current Lady members since 2000

Year

Name

Competition

Year

Name

Competition

 

2002

Jan Allum

Surrey Singles ¼ Finalist

2006

Gill Sperring

Surrey Two Wood Singles Semi Final

2004

Eileen Mills

Surrey Champion of Champions Semi Finalist

2008

Eileen Mills

Surrey Singles Area Finalist

 

County Badge - Ladies

Players become eligible to play for the County by earning six points in any five consecutive years in any of the following Championships: Four Wood Singles, Two Wood Singles, Singles, Pairs, Triples, Fours. Points will also be awarded Unbadged Singles competition. All players reaching the last 16 in any of the above Championships/Competitions and having played three rounds up to and including the last sixteen will receive 1 point. All quarter finalists will receive 3 points, semi-finalists 4 points, finalist 5 points and winners 6 points. 23 September 2018 All Zones – Any player that plays more than three rounds before reaching the last 16 will receive 1 extra point. Players who have been awarded their Surrey County Badge may enter for matches against other Counties. Senior Fours - no points to be awarded, but the winners, if they are unbadged and provided they have played in 4 rounds, to include the final will be awarded their County Badge. The Surrey Champion of Champions does not come under these provisions but the winner shall qualify for her County Badge. Subject to the provisions set out below, a player who is unbadged shall qualify for her County Badge if she wins the final of a National Competition other than National Top Club, Tony Allcock Trophy, Benevolent Triples and Amy Rose provided she shall have played at least three rounds prior to the National Finals and shall have played in all rounds at the National Finals.

Eligibility for County Games

The County Badge is awarded for life and any badged player may be selected for County matches.

Inter County Badge Players who play in five Johns Trophy matches shall qualify for the award of a Johns Trophy Badge. Players who play in three Walker Cup matches shall qualify for the award of a Walker Cup flash.

 

Most recent successes in Team Matches at Epsom Bowling Club - Men

 

Yonwin Cup 2003

 

Round

Opponent

Score

Details

First

Ashtead

Won 74 – 43

Won 2 Rinks, Lost 1 Rink

Second

Auriol

Won 57 – 48

Won 1 Rink, Lost 2 Rinks

Semi Final

North Cheam

Won 52 – 48

Won 1 Rink, lost 1 Rink, Drew 1 Rink

Final

Malden & Coombe

Won 63 - 54

Won 2 Rinks, Lost 1 Rink

 

East Surrey League – Top 10 2008

 

Round

Opponent

Score

Details

First

Sutton

Won 94 – 42

(4 – 0)

Won all 4 disciplines

Second

Purley

Won 93 – 72

(2½ -½)

Won Pairs/Triples, Drew 4’s, Lost Singles

Semi Final

Shirley Park

Won 76 – 63

Won Singles/Pairs/4’s, Lost Triples

Final

Warlingham Park

Won 71 - 70

Won Pairs/Triples, Lost Singles/4’s

In the Final the game was won with the very last bowl of the match. This occurred in the Fours – facing overall defeat, being 4 shots down on this last end, Peter Miller drew 3rd bowl.

 

East Surrey League 2015

 

Played

Won

Lost

Drawn

Shots For

Shots Against

Points

16

14

1

1

1376

1029

155

 

The best win was against Shirley Park 113 – 37 (+76) (12 – 0)

The points scored (155) is the highest recorded points for winning this League.  26 players involved.

 

Chrystie League won the League in 2017/18                         Vilamoura won the League in 2017/18

 

Most recent successes in Team Matches at Epsom Bowling Club – Ladies

 

East Surrey League – Ladies  2005

 

Played

Won

Lost

Drawn

Shots For

Shots Against

Points

7

5

1

1

256

169

Not Known

 

The best win was against Wallington 54 - 23 (+32) (points not known). 16 players involved.

 

East Surrey League – Ladies  2006

 

Played

Won

Lost

Drawn

Shots For

Shots Against

Points

8

7

1

0

383

242

Not Known

 

The best win was against Wallington 58 - 19 (+39) (4 - 0). 15 players involved.

 

East Surrey League – Ladies  2014

 

Played

Won

Lost

Drawn

Shots For

Shots Against

Points

8

6

2

0

361

230

26

 

The best win was against Godstone 60 - 24 (+36) (4 - 0). 12 players involved.

 

Jubilee Cup 1999 - played Indoors at King George Field IBC

 

Round

Opponent

Score

Details

First

Surbiton

Won 64 - 38

Won all 3 Rinks

Second

Supreme

Won 53 - 48

Won 2 Rinks, Lost 1 Rink

Third Round

Raynes Park Ladies

Won 59 - 26

Won all 3 Rinks

Semi Final

Old Coulsdon

Won 57 - 56

Won 1 Rink, Lost 2 Rinks

Final

Merton Park

Won 83 - 43

Won all 3 Rinks

15 members involved in the Tournament.

 
 

               Trophies Awarded at Epsom Bowling Club

 

Below is a record of the Trophies awarded at Epsom Bowling Club at the end of each season.

 

Men

 

Men’s Singles

 

Mr P Partridge presented this cup on November 6th 1913 & is known as The Partridge Cup.  The Cup itself is Silver marked London 1912.  The first recorded winner was Mr S J Robins in 1913. There is a Silver Cup presented to the Club at some time for the runner up (presenter not known) & the first Winner was Tom Cheesman in 1997

 

Men’s Handicap Singles

 

Mr T F Squarey J P presented this Cup in 1923 & is known as The Squarey Cup.  The Cup is Silver marked Birmingham 1922. The first recorded winner was Mr H B Whitby in 1934. A Vase with Lattice cover is presented to the runner up.  The first winner of this trophy was Mr R H Gosling in 1954 (no records exist re who/when this Cup was presented).

There is quite a story attached to the winner of the Squarey Cup.  In 1939 it was won by Mrs H M Wells. (remember the Ladies section did not start until 1947). Apparently Mrs Wells helped the Club in some administrative capacity & was asked to make up the numbers to avoid a bye for someone. She only agreed if she was allowed to play. The men, of course, were confident that she would not fair well.  Totally unfounded as she WON & her name is engraved on the Cup. This apparently caused a huge stir and she left the Club.

 

Men’s Handicap Pairs

 

Lord Rosebery presented this Cup in 1923 & is known as The Rosebery Cup.  The Cup is Silver & marked London 1922.  The first recorded winners are Mr W Skinner & Mr E J Hodsdon in 1923. A Plate was presented by David Sowdon (Sheffield Plate) in 2011 for the runner up.  The first winners was Derek Martin & David Sowdon.

 

Men’s Handicap Triples

 

Mr C Whitby presented this Cup in 1935 & is known as the Whitby Cup.  This Cup is Silver & marked London 1906.  The first recorded winners were G F Durrant, A Little & W Penna in 1958.  On the Cup there is only 1 name inscribed on the Cup for the years 1935 – 1953.  There is no explanation for this other than the Trophy may have been presented for another Competition.  However, there are 3 names for 1954. There is also confusion over ‘Pettitt’ Trophy (see Two Wood) & ‘Whitby’ Trophies for the Triples. Another puzzle – Mrs E Foord is recorded as a winner in 1945 (Ladies section not formed until 1947).  In 1957 Mrs Otway-Cave was a member of the winning Triple. John Huxford presented a Cup for the runners up in 2014.  The first recorded winners are Derek Cash, Peter Humphreys & John Huxford.

 

Men’s Handicap Fours

 

Mr W J Payne presented this Cup in 1925.  There were 4 Trophies, but it is not sure if Mr Payne presented all 4. The Competition was known as The Cedar Cup.  The Cup is Silver & marked 1924.  The first recorded winners are Mr White, Mr Manser, Mr E W Penna & Mr Tommy Melville in 1955.  This Competition was discontinued after the 2016 season & replaced by The Australian Pairs. Terry Hoye presented a Cup for the runner up in 2014.  The first winners were David Hutchison, Fred Read, Peter Humphreys & David Sowdon.

 

Men’s Junior Handicap Singles

 

Clive Banderet presented a Cup for this Competition in 1983.  (there was no previous Trophy). The Cup is Silver & marked Sheffield 1978.  The first recorded winner was Mr E A Waugh in 1954.  Clive was delighted to win ‘his’ Trophy in 2007.

 

Men’s Two Wood

 

Mr H Chas Pettitt presented the Bowl in 1951.  The Trophy was used for the Mixed Triples in 1951 – 1959 & the Junior Competition in 1960 – 1964.  The Bowl is Silver marked London 1888 – the Base London 1950.  The first recorded winner was Mr A Greenaway in 1965.

 

Australian Pairs

 

John Meningen presented a Plate in 2017 for the winners.  The first recorded winners were Bill Lawrence & John Warren.  Clive Allum presented a Plate for the runners up in 2017.  Dave Pearce & Graham Coleman were the first winners.

 

Ladies – more details re the Ladies’ Cups is underway.

 

Ladies’ Singles

 

This Trophy is called The Heppenstall Challenge Cup.  The first recorded winner was Mrs J Moore in 1947.

 

Ladies’ Handicap Singles

 

This Trophy is known as the Jubilee Cup.  The first recorded winner was Mrs L G Fisher in 1948.

 

Ladies’ Two Wood Singles

 

This Trophy is known as The Two Wood Cup. The first recorded winner was Mrs M Stevens in 1985

 

Ladies’ Two Wood Plate

 

This Trophy is known as the Two Wood Plate.  The first recorded winner was Mrs E Poate in 1986.

 

Ladies’ Pairs

 

This Trophy is known as The Hilda Wells Trophy.  The first recorded winners were Mrs B E Surridge & Mrs M A Rose in 1948.Ladies’ Triples

 

Ladies’ Triples

 

This Trophy is known as the Triples Shield.  The first recorded winners were Mrs W Russell, Mrs M Smeardon & Mrs Vera Deane in 1988.

 

Ladies’ Junior Handicap Singles

 

This Trophy is known as the Clive Cup.  The first recorded winner was Mrs E Colson in 1964.

 

Mixed

 

Cropley Cup

 

This is a Competition between the Men & Ladies, played in each season.  Mr Robert Tyler presented this Cup in 1915 & is used for the Cropley Cup.  The Cup is Silver & marked Birmingham 1913.  This Competition was previously known as The Epsom Club Bowling Challenge Cup.  It was won outright by Mr Chas Cropley in 1921 – for what it is not known.

 

The Windeler Challenge Cup

 

Mr B C Windeler presented this Trophy in 1927.  It was originally a Mixed Fours Competition.  The Cup with Lid & Plinth is Silver marked Birmingham 1926.  The first recorded winners were Mr A Beasant, Mrs M Butler & Mr G Savage in 1960.  The format for the Competition varies from year to year – depending on numbers attending on the day.

 

Mixed Pairs

 

Mrs Hilda Luckey presented this Trophy in 1963.  The Silver Tray is marked Chester 1947.  The first recorded winners were Mr & Mrs Choat in 1958.

 

The Ward Cup

 

This Cup was presented by Roy Ward in 1998.  This is a mixed Singles Competition.  The first recorded winner is Graham Pilbrow in 1998.  David Sowdon presented a Plate (Sheffield Plate) in 2011 for the runner up.  The first winner was Brian Kenyon.

 

Autumn Triples

 

This is a Mixed Triples Competition. Members play for the Graham Naish Plate presented by the Club in memory of former member Graham.  The first recorded winners are Keith Roberts, Ruth Baker & Richard Senior in 2019.

 

Over the years there have been other Competitions.

 

Alberts Triples

 

A Men’s Triples Competition began back around 1964/65 by Albert Emerson. He was Captain at the time. It was simply called Albert’s Triples.  It was played on Wednesday evenings starting at 6.30pm.

During the early years there were only cash prizes and it was not until after Albert's death, in the winter of 1979/80, that his widow provided the 'Albert Emerson Cup'.

It is believed that the unique scoring of the competition was devised by Albert.  The aim seemed to have been to maintain the interest up to the very end of the season.  This was proved to work when in 1998 seven players could have won on the very last night.

In 1985 it was taken over by Des O'Connor and the competition was aptly named Des's Triples.  It ran for 12 years. Des passed away in 1993 and Ken Wilkinson ran the competition during 1994/1995 handing over to Harry Partington. It took a while for the Competition to be recognised as Harry’s Triples, but this is what it became. Sadly after Harry passed away nobody took on the organisation of the Competition.

 

Nobby’s Triples

 

Mr J C (Nobby) Clark was a club member from 1974 - 1988. He introduced a triples competition which was played on Friday afternoons starting at 2pm.  When he died his triples was taken over by Denis Neville and the start time changed to 2.15pm in 1989. Denis ran this until he passed away in 2004.

The Competition fell into decline for a few years, but is now as popular as ever.  This has come about because of the organisation of John Hart.

 

Club Night

 

Club night (mixed) started in 2005 & played on a Friday Evening. It replaced Albert’s Triples.  Cyril Newman now looks after this Competition.

 

Miller’s Triples

 

Peter Miller introduced 'Miller's Triples' in 2005.  After having a very successful season being undefeated as a Triple with Martin Harbottle & Ted Ray he issued a challenge to fellow members.  In 2010 Peter decided to present a new trophy for the Competition in the form of a Shield.  The first winners were ‘The Young Ones’ – Brian Kenyon, John Hart & Graham Pilbrow in 2005. It ran until 2013.

 

Dad’s Army

 

‘Dad’s Army’ played an important part in the History of the Club during the late 80’s and early 90’s.
Ted Emmett (past member) had been kind enough to give the information regarding this part of Epsom Bowling Club’s History.

The term ‘Dad’s Army' was given to afternoon bowlers and came from Janet Cheesman’s (ex member) father Henry Starkey.
The fixture was run in its entirety by Ted and his wife. Ted starting it all off wearing a tin hat which led to trophies, namely, Tin Hat, Shield and Wooden Spoon.
The format of ‘The Army’ parade in the car park, suitably dressed, and then marching around the green became an accepted part of the ritual.
It developed further from there with others dressing up in Patriotic Costume.  At one time the group boasted 20 - 30 members.
The initial match was played on the 16th July 1989 and involved Dad’s Army playing against The Rest. The result was a tie but, the winners were declared on the number of ends won.
The supper given after the game was traditional ‘Bangers & Mash’. Formal speeches and presentations were made. ‘Dad’s Army’ continued to be played until 1993 when Ted withdrew due to the loss of his Grandson.

 

Please let Les know if you spot any errors OR if you want to add to the information above.

 

History of Records at Epsom Bowling Club

 

Epsom Bowling Club was founded in 1909 & records for the Men have been kept since 1949.  The records are recorded are for 1949 – 2008 written up in large ledgers kept at the Club.  These records would not have been possible without the dedication & loyalty of many, many members. Sadly some of these members are no longer with us.  It is not known who kept the records in the early days, but former member Vic Shrosbree kept them for many years followed by Roy Ward.  The records are now kept by Les Owen & are recorded on the Epsom Bowling Club Website and as hard copies kept in ring binders.

Les has spent many hours going through these ledgers & recording the information on the Website.  He tackled each discipline at a time and discovered many interesting facts about the Club.  These are recorded in ‘History’ on the Website.

The records kept are for ALL matches – Friendly, League, Chrystie League, Vilamoura League, Mixed Matches, all Outside Competitions & Indoor Matches (Men & Ladies). The details recorded are for all teams, appearances, rink scores and Final result.

The Ladies section was formed in 1947, but records only exist from 2008 (however, there are some bits of information have come to light regarding some games before 2008).

 

Men

 

Friendly matches

It is interesting to note that there were 38 matches played in 1995, but in 2019 there were only 11. Since 1992 Epsom have played 564 matches, won 309, lost 233, drawn 12 & there were 72 matches cancelled. In 2017 & 2018 Epsom were unbeaten.

 

East Surrey League

 

The East Surrey League was formed in 1987.  Epsom were one of the founder clubs & played their first match against Old Coulsdon in 1987.  They lost 70 – 82, Graham Pilbrow and Roy Ward played in this game.  There were 8 matches that season. Now there are 16.  Since 1987 Epsom have played 417 games, won 262, lost 145, drawn 7 & 3 matches cancelled/abandoned.  Epsom won the League in 2015 & have been runners up on 7 occasions.

 

Bowls England

 

The English Bowling Association was formed in 1903.  On the first January 2008 The Women’s Bowling Association and the EBA merged to become Bowls England – a Company Limited by Guarantee & wholly owned by 35 Counties.

Epsom have entered over the years the following Competitions:- Top 11, Double Fours, Single Fours & Tony Allcock Trophy (started in 2011).

 

Top 11

In the Top 11 the first recorded result is in 2004.  Epsom beat Old Coulsdon 3 – 2, Ashtead 4 - 1 then lost to Cheam.

 

Two Fours

This Competition started in 1978 and was originally called the Nat West Two Fours, but changed to Bowls England Two Fours in 2007.  Epsom entered the Nat West Two Fours in 1978, won the first round, but no further records exist for this year.  Epsom continue to enter this Competition. Epsom entered the BE Single Fours in only 1 year – 2009. Epsom have taken part in the Tony Allcock Trophy since 2011 except for 2017.

 

East Surrey League

 

Top 10

Epsom first entered the Top 10 in 1997 (lost to Old Coulsdon 0 – 4).  The Competition changed to Top 11 in 2018.  Epsom won the Top 10 in 2008 beating Warlingham Park 71 – 70. (Stefan Tomm, Ted Ray, John Hart, Graham Pilbrow, Les Owen, Martin Harbottle, Terry Hoye, Pat Buckley & Peter Miller played).

 

Sutton & District Bowling Association

 

S&DBA was formed in 1949.  Epsom take part in the Yonwin Cup (3 rinks), Arthur Hughes Triples, Paston Cup (Singles), St Raphael Pairs (Mixed) & the Ted Peirce Trophy (This Singles Competition is open to all Delegates, Officers, Life Members & Honorary Vice Presidents of the Association. Additionally, current members of S&DBA affiliated Clubs may also enter providing they have played in two or more indoor or outdoor matches for the Association in the preceding year ending 31st December). Members can enter the BLESMA Pairs as well.

 

Yonwin Cup

The Yonwin Cup started in 1950.  Epsom affiliated with S&DBA in 1976 and have played in every year since. Epsom have won the Yonwin Cup on 7 occasions & appeared in 5 other finals.  They have played 119 games & won 85.

 

Arthur Hughes Triples

Epsom were finalists in 1985

 

Paston Cup

This is a Competition for the Club Champions at each Club. Graham Pilbrow has won 7 times, Les Owen once.  John Huxford was runner up in 2014.

 

St Raphael Pairs

This is a Mixed Competition.  Sandra Huxford & David Sowdon won in 2011, Sandra & John Huxford won in 2016.  Brian Kenyon & Eileen Mills were runners up 2014.

 

Ted Peirce Trophy

Roy Ward won in 1994, Martin Harbottle in 2018.  Clive Banderet lost to Roy in the 1994 Final.

 

BLESMA Pairs

The Limbless Veterans (formerly known as the British Limbless Ex-Servicemen's Association) is a British charity that helps all serving and ex-Service men and women who have lost limbs, or lost the use of limbs or eyes, to rebuild their lives by providing rehabilitation activities and welfare support.

Les Owen & Peter Pearce were runners up in 2000.

 

Times Herald/Past Times

This Competition was originally called The Times Herald Competition (Sponsored by the local paper) & ran between 1966 to 2001.  It was replaced by The Past Times Competition in 2002.  This is a Two Fours competition with one team playing at home & the other away.  The aggregate scores decide the winner. Epsom have been involved in both these competitions since 1975. Epsom won the Times Herald in 1975 (Graham Pilbrow played), Finalists in 1980 (Graham Pilbrow played), 1990 (Graham Pilbrow & Les Owen played) & 1997 (George Sperring, Les Owen, Martin Harbottle, Peter Miller & Graham Pilbrow played).

 

London & Southern Counties Bowling Association

 

Shield

Epsom were involved in this Competition for many years.  It was originally 2 rinks at home & 2 rinks away. The first recorded match was in 1965 & Epsom last entered this Competition in 2011.

Epsom also entered our Singles Champion into the Gold Badge for many years, but not in recent times.

 

Surrey Competitions

 

The first recorded success in Surrey was in 1934 when F Cragg was a finalist in the Secretaries Cup. Since then Epsom have won the Pairs (1948), the Triples (1950 &1951), runners up in 1949 & Graham Pilbrow was a finalist in the Singles in 1992. The Secretaries Singles was won in 1980 (Jack Pilbrow).  Jim Scott won the Fours in 1974 (he was at Andre B C at the time). Epsom were Area 3 Top 4 winners in 2006 (Martin Harbottle, Peter Miller, Pat Buckley & Ted Ray) & again in 2014 (Brian Kenyon, Andrew Turnbull, John Warren & John Huxford).

Epsom have 14 current members who have qualified for the Surrey County Badge.  These are:- Clive Allum, Pat Buckley, Graham Coleman, Dickie Day, Martin Harbottle, Peter Miller, Les Owen, John Meningen, Dave Pearce, Graham Pilbrow, Jim Scott, George Sperring, Stefan Tomm, Roy Ward & John Warren.

Epsom have had the honour of two Surrey Presidents – Chas Cropley in 1932 & Roy Ward in 1999. (Roy was made a Life Member in 2015).  Martin Harbottle is currently Senior Vice President & will become President in 2022.

 

Surrey Leopard Award

The Surrey Leopard Award aims to encourage, foster, promote and maintain a sense of pride and enthusiasm by members of outdoor clubs affiliated to the County. It recognises outstanding and distinguished services in administration and other duties at Club level which may have been given over a number of years or, depending on the quality, range and depth of the contributions, may have been over a shorter period. The extent to which they have directly or indirectly assisted the County Association in achieving its objectives will also be taken into account. The award is not extended to recognition of playing skills and/or services to management at Association level which are sufficiently recognised through other honours outlined in the Award of Honours Policy.

Recipients: Denis Neville awarded in 2003 & Tony Jacklin awarded in 1999

 

Middleton Cup

4 ex members have played in the Middleton Cup.

 

Chrystie League

The Chrystie League was founded in 2000.  Epsom joined in 2001.  This involves 2 rinks played either at home or away on a Monday Evening. There are 6 teams in this League. Since them they have played 180 matches, won 105, lost 70, drawn 5 with 10 cancelled.  Epsom have won the League in 2004, 2017 & 2018.  In 2004 they were unbeaten.

 

Mole Valley Cup

Epsom entered this Competition in only 2 years – 2015 & 2016.  They lost in the 2016 Final.

 

Ladies

 

Friendly Matches

It is interesting to note that the Ladies played 26 matches in 2007, but in 2019 there were only 13. Since 2009 Epsom Ladies have played 163 matches, won 85, lost 74, drawn 4 & there have been 42 matches cancelled.

 

East Surrey League

The Ladies ESL was formed in 1993.  Epsom was one of the founder Clubs. However, Epsom only have the results from 1998.  In this season there were 7 games & in 2019 there were 10.  The Ladies have won the League on 3 occasions – 2005, 2006 & 2014.  Full records are only available from 2008.  Since this time the Ladies have played 170 matches, won 84, lost 78, drawn 4 & 4 cancelled/abandoned.

 

ESL Top 10

Epsom Ladies first entered the Top 10 in 2003, but have not entered since 2016.

 

Times Herald/Past Times

This Competition was originally called The Times Herald Competition (Sponsored by the local paper) & ran between 1966 to 2001.  It was replaced by The Past Times Competition in 2002.  The first recorded entry was in 1998 (Times Herald), but the Ladies have not played in this Competition since 2015.  Since records recorded Epsom Ladies have played 38 matches, won 22 & lost 16.  The Ladies won the Times Herald Trophy in 1998 (Eileen Mills & Gill Sperring played in this game). The Ladies lost in the Past Times Final in 2012. (Audrey Jones, Anne Hoffmann, Eileen Mills, Gill Sperring, Sandra Huxford & Marilyn Walsh-Hoye played in this game).

 

Sutton & District Bowling Association

 

Pairs

Won this Competition in 1989, 1990 & 1998. (Gill Sperring played in the 1998 Final with Freda Starkey)

 

Surrey Competitions

 

The Surrey County Women’s Bowling Association was founded in 1931. The first recorded success by the Ladies in Surrey was in 1961 when Epsom won the Triples. Fran Exton won the Surrey singles in 1996 & Eileen Mills was runner up in 2008.  Freda Starkey & Gill Sperring won the Pairs in 1999 & the Ladies were finalist in the Fours in 2002 (Eileen Mills & Gill Sperring played in this game). Eileen Mills & Gill Sperring have both qualified for their Surrey County Badge.

 

 

Mixed

 

The first recorded Mixed match was in 1991.  It is assumed that no mixed matches took place before this date. Since 1991 Epsom have played 121 matches, won 86, lost 33, drawn 2 & there have been 22 games cancelled. In 2016 Epsom played 13 matches & won them all.

Sutton & District Bowling Association

 

 

St Raphael Mixed Pairs

Eileen Mills & Graham Pilbrow – Finalists in 2004,  Sandra Huxford & David Sowdon winners in 2011, Eileen Mills & Brian Kenyon Finalsts in 2014, Sandra & John Huxford winners in 2016.

 

Vilamoura Mixed League

Epsom joined this League in 2017. It is a mixed Triples match with one team at home & one away.   Epsom won the League in 2017 & in 2018.  Epsom have played 29 matches, won 21, lost 7 & drawn 1. There are 12 teams in this League.

 

Indoor

 

Jubilee Cup – played at King George Field Indoor Bowls Club

The records for the Jubilee Cup go back to 1995.  Epsom won the Trophy in 1995, 1999 & 2002.  They have played 96 matches, won 60 & lost 36. In 1995 & 1999 Epsom won the Trophy without losing a game.

 

Spitfire League – played at Donyngs Indoor Bowling Club

Epsom first entered the Spitfire League in the 2014/15 season.  Many of the teams Epsom played were regular members Indoors with several of Epsom’s players non Indoor players.. Since then Epsom have played 31 matches, won 13 & lost 18. Epsom lost in the 2014/15 Final.

 

Mole Valley Cup – played at Mole Valley Indoor Bowling Club

Epsom first entered the Mole Valley Cup in the 2012/13 season.  They have played 39 matches, won 21, lost 16 & drawn 2.  Epsom have lost in two Finals – 2013/14 & 2017/18.

 

Indoor Matches – played against various Clubs

The first recorded Indoor match was in 1984.  Since then Epsom have played each Winter.  In 1993/94 there were 10 fixtures, however recently there have been only 1/3 matches during the Winter.  In these matches many Epsom members do not play regularly Indoors & compete against well established Indoor players..  There have been some very wins over the years.

 

Please let Les know if you spot any errors OR if you want to add to the information above.

 

              

Tribute to Bill Lawrence

 

Bill joined Epsom Bowling Club in 1987.  He left in 1990, but re-joined in 2000. He always helped out in all areas no matter how large the task.  Once he even ‘disappeared’ when Epsom played away at Chipstead – where was he? – putting out their score boards etc. that’s the kind of man he was.

Bill seemed to be always at the Club.  There were many times that he cycled to the Club or even walked from home to get to the Club. He was the Property Manager in 2016. 

Bill gave up a great deal of time supporting the Club and was always willing to undertake ‘chores’ that needed doing.  He often got frustrated when tasks were not done by fellow members & usually ended up doing them himself.

Whenever players needed a marker Bill would always be willing.  It seemed at times that Bill marked every day.

To reward him for his marking duties Bill was selected to mark the singles in the Final of the Top 10 against Wallington in 2012.  He was very proud of this.

Bill put his name down on the selection sheets for nearly every game. He was delighted in 2001 to get his first East Surrey League game, and when not selected for these matches (and others) he accepted this, but strived to get back in the team with many hours of practice.

Bill was a member of the squad that won the East Surrey League in 2015.

Bill played his 50th game in the Chrystie League on Monday 12th June 2017 against Brockham.  He was a member of the squad that won the Chrystie League in 2004 & 2017 & a member of the squad that won the Vilamoura Mixed League in 2017.

Bill was hospitalised in 2019 and over the last year or so received full time care at home.  In honour of his loyal & dedicated approach to Club matters he was granted Life Membership of Epsom Bowling Club in 2019.

Indoor Bowling

Bill played many matches Indoors despite not belonging to an Indoor Club.  He played for the Piscatorials Bowling Association & Sutton & District Bowling Association, Epsom Club Friendlies and played in the Jubilee Cup held at King George IBC.

Before he was taken ill Bill did join Mole Valley IBC & played in several matches.

Bill was an avid collector of Bowls Stickers & Bowls Badges.

Sadly Bill passed away on Tuesday 21st April 2020.

He will be sorely missed by his Family, Friends & all at Epsom Bowling Club who had the pleasure to know him, and to play with or against him.

RIP Bill

 

Bill’s Club Record

Won

Handicap Singles 2016                      Handicap Triples 2013/2017 Handicap Pairs 2000/2012 

Aussie Pairs 2017                              Junior Singles 2001

Windeler Cup 2001/2006/13             Miller's Triples 2006

Runner Up

Fours 2005     Pairs 2010       Windeler Cup 2005/2016

Bill reached the Semi Final of The Arthur Hughes Triples with Bill Sandford and George Sperring in 2004.

 

Apearances                                                   

                                                           

Matches

Debut             

Appearances

East  Surrey League

v Old Coulsdon – played lead

142

Yonwin Cup

v Purley – played lead          

8

E S L Top 10

v Bletchingley

3

B E Top 11

v Cheam Village – played lead

9

Times Herald/Past Times

v Leatherhead – played lead

22

B E Two Fours

v Sutton – played lead

6

B E Single Fours

v Old Coulsdon – played lead

1

Chrystie League

v Pippbrook – played lead

59

L&SCBA Shield

v Malden – played lead

4

Jubilee Cup

v West Park- played lead

10

 

Martin Harbottle spent a great deal of his time to visiting Bill in hospital & at his home on many occasions.  Bill was very grateful that Martin did this.

 

Quotes from fellow members

‘I could not believe for his age what he used to do for the Club – he never sat still’ Terry Berry

‘our memories include winning one of the Autumn Triples with Bill at lead in his prime’  George Sperring

‘a TRUE Club man and a true gentleman as well’  Jim Scott

‘the most loyal and supportive member of Epsom Bowling Club I have had the pleasure of knowing – simply Mr Epsom Bowling Club’  Les Owen

‘he loved his bowling and how much he thanked Epsom bowling club that had made him so welcome the second time around, if it wasn’t for all the good friends giving him lifts to different clubs/places he would not have made so many good friends around the county of which he was always very grateful’  Martin Harbottle

 

 If anyone would like to share a memory or two re Bill then please e-mail Les

 

              

A slight miscalculation by our Green Keeper

(click on photographs for larger version)