WHAT a difference a year makes! Last year Pembroke Dock Bowling Club’s open week matches were played during a mini heatwave.

This year matches were played in changeable weather and Thursday saw play being suspended during the afternoon due to heavy rain.

The annual tournament took place at the immaculate Memorial Park green with matches played in front of appreciative spectators.

Competitors in the three competitions battled throughout the week for a place in the finals that were played on Saturday.

Sudbury Bowl

The final saw Mark Driscoll of Graig Merthyr BC take on Hugh Williams (Pembroke Dock BC). Congratulations to Mark on his 21 – 9 win. Mark was making his debut in the tournament and played outstandingly well all week.

Alfred Phillips Bowl

The ‘Blue Riband’ event saw club captain Richard Jones battle with Hugh Williams. Both players are on top of their game and played excellent bowls in a final that will be remembered by many for a very long time.

Following a match that lasted well over two hours, it was Richard that won the day with a 21 – 18 success. Commiserations to Hugh on being runner-up in both competitions.

Texaco Shield

Players eliminated during the first few days of the tournament compete for the shield and this year Haydn John-Davies (Pembroke Dock BC) took on Nigel Davies (Saundersfoot BC) in the final. Haydn battled well with fine bowling by both players, but Nigel eventually lifted the shield with a 21 – 11 win.

Mrs Diana Davies, club president, presented the trophies and tournament organiser, Richard Jones, complimented those that had made the week such a success.

Thanks were extended to the band of greenkeepers for preparing an excellent playing surface, the ladies for preparing refreshments, the bar staff and to Collette Bethwaite (Umpire) who officiated throughout the week.

Following the presentation ceremony members retired to the clubhouse to enjoy a buffet and the raffle with loads of prizes up for grabs. To bring the tournament to an end, both Richard and Haydn were thanked for their hard work in ensuring the tournament ran smoothly despite the adverse weather conditions.