Accrington win closely contested Provincial bowls final

Four teams - from Accrington, Blackpool, Burnley and Longridge Circles - competed for the Provincial bowls trophy at St Joseph's bowling green in Chorley on Sunday 27 August. The weather was set fair, and there were some close encounters to keep the spectators interested.

Burnley Circle as holders of the trophy, gave their opponents, Blackpool Circle, a start of 4 points in each rubber; Blackpool had only 4 players - and one of those was a guest - but Des, Mike and Brian each won their rubber to give Blackpool a 3 - 2 win. The other semifinal between Accrington and Longridge was also closely fought, Accrington prevailing in the end.

So a gripping final took place between Accrington and Blackpool. The result was close, Accrington winning by 3 to 2.

The winning Accrington team of Jeff Brown, captain Simon Preugschat, Frank Bradshaw, Mike Finley and Paul Birch with the spoils, including the Provincial bowls trophy

Everyone enjoyed a great afternoon's fun and friendship, and thanks again go to Mike Finley for organising everything so well - and to Carol and her merry band of ladies for supplying seemingly endless cups of tea and coffee!