Latest News from Oakley BC
4th February 2012 - SUCCESSFUL CLUB DINNER
A very successful 34th Annual Presentation Dinner and Dance, attended by some 80 members and guests, was held last night at the Thames Valley Golf Club. The toast to "The Guests" was ably proposed by Club President Barry Lee with the Bowls Hampshire Men's President Ken Graham responding. Next up Bowls Hampshire Ladies' President Maxeen Fletcher propsed the toast to "The Club", drawing attention to the tremendous support given by the club to the County and wishing the Club well with its plans for a new pavilion. Club Vice President Coral Wearn responded. A witty speech followed from Sir Michael Colman before he went on to present the trophies to the
2011 Winners. The winners of the 3 principal singles are pictured below
.
Dancing to our usual Disco then brought the evening to a close. The raffle held during the evening raised £400 towards club funds and thanks go to all who contributed prizes and bought tickets.
27th January 2012 - BASINGSTOKE AND DISTRICT DINNER
Tonight some 80 people, 18 from Oakley, were at Loddon Vale for the Basingstoke and District Dinner and Presentation Evening. Oakley were rewarded with Runners Up in the Hants and Berks Cup, in the Champion of Champions (Ric Newson) and the Rinks (Terry Heath, Ric Newson, Spencer Kerley and Ted Brown) but the highlight of the evening centred on Martin Smith and Eric Lamkin who lifted the Pairs Trophy.
The Competition Secretary described it as an unexpected success. We know it was well deserved
22nd January 2012 - CLARK WHITEHILL SUCCESS
Yesterday morning at West Berks IBC, Oakley took on Three Mile Cross in the Clark Whitehill Plate. Oakley began strongly and after the first five ends the rink skipped by Eric Lamkin led 7-3 whilst President Barry Lee was 5-1 to the good. However over the next 5 ends Three Mile Cross fought back and by 10 ends the overall score was tied at 18-18 with Eric down by 4 and Barry up by 4.The game remained extremely close and still at 15 ends nothing separated the 2 teams with the aggregate tied at 25-25. Oakley then made a move but it was only a small one so that going into the last end we led by just two at 38-36. Would that be enough? Yes it would. Eric's rink lost a single but Barry's scored three giving Oakley a 41-37 win. Oakley Scores; David Huyton, Peter Stewart,,Trevor Wearn and Eric Lamkin lost 15-24, Ric Newson, Paul Cresswell, Des Atkins and Barry Lee won 26-13. The next round is on 25th February.
15th January 2012 - THREE IN A ROW IN CUSHEON
Last evening at Loddon Vale, Oakley took on Old Basing in our third game in the Cusheon Trophy. It was expected to be a tough game as Old Basing had beaten us in last year's competition and once again we were fielding a changed side. So far 14 players have been used in these games and only three have featured in all three matches. The game began promisingly with both rinks picking up threes but Old Basing hung in there and although at 6 ends Oakley had moved out to a 14 -6 lead, Basing by half way had reduced the difference again to just six shots at 18-12 to Oakley . The game continued to see saw but ends 13 to 15 saw Oakley pick up a net seven shots to lead 31-16. It was now a matter of keeping calm and not losing any silly scores and with their good contingent of support, Oakley did just that, winning eventually by 45 shots to 23. Oakley scores; June Harvie, Trevor Wearn, Ric Newson and Eric Lamkin drew 14-14, Mary Taylor, Paul Cresswell, Terry Heath and Kay Kerley won 31-9. In the next game on the 4th February Oakley will play Basingstoke Town "B"
8th January 2012 - RAIL CANCELLATION
Oakley travelled this morning to Longmeadow expecting to take part in a Moreton Plate game v Eastleigh Rail. However the opposing team failed to turn up and Oakley have been given a walk over into the next round.
4th December 2011 - CHRISTMAS COMES EARLY FOR BARRY
Oakley Friendly reports do not normally feature on this site but today is an exception. President Barry received an early Christmas present from members as, in his first game in charge, the club recorded a surprise win at Camberley. Oakley started as if they were the home team and at 10 ends held a commanding lead which they maintained for most of the game. Gradually, however, as the legs tired, Camberley came back into the game and with just a total of 4 ends to play Oakley trailed 111-116. Scores of 2,1,2 and 3 saw Dave Huyton's team,as the last rink to finish, needing to avoid dropping a 3. This they did and Oakley emerged triumphant by 119-117. Happy Christmas Mr President.
3rd Decmber 2011 - A SECOND WIN IN CUSHEON
An Oakley team, showing four changes from that fielded in the previous game, took on Yateley tonight in the Cusheon Trophy at Loddon Vale Oakley began well on the rink, skipped by Eric Lamkin, who led by 9-2 at 5 ends and whilst Trevor Wearn's rink was 2-6 down Oakley had a narrow lead of 3. By 9 ends they had extended this lead to 18 shots and with Eric 18-2 up a comfortable win looked likely. At this stage ,however, fortunes changed dramatically. Eric's rink lost 9 successive ends so that on the conclusion of the 18th end we held only a 6 shot lead with Eric now tied and Trevor 7 up. Things got tighter still and the lead was reduced to 3 but fortunately Trevor picked up a 3 on his last end and with Eric picking up a 2 on the 19th it left Eric to play out his last 2 ends with an 8 shot buffer that proved enough to see Oakley home 42-34. Congratulations to the team, three of whom do not play indoors. Scores; Mary Taylor, Paul Cresswell, Barry Lee and Trevor Wearn won 20-13, June Harvie, Coral Wearn, David Huyton and Eric Lamkin won 22-21
21st November 2011 - ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The AGM, at Malshanger, attracted 53 members with Barry Lee being elected for the second time as President. His Vice President is Coral Wearn. The majority of Officers were re elected but we have a new Men's Captain in Ric Newson and Vice Captain in John Wilson. Janie Vickers has taken over as Ladies Captain. There is one new committee member Chris Lee. Full details of the Officers and committee for 2012 can be found elsewhere on this site.
13th November 2011 - GOOD WIN IN CUSHEON
Yesterday evening at Loddon Vale saw Oakley take on Camberley in their first Cusheon Trophy game of the 2011/12 season. Given Camberley's successes in recent years in this competition Oakley probably began as underdogs. However, over the first five ends, it looked as if "home" experience would be the biggest factor as Oakley moved into a 14-7 lead with Terry Heath's rink roaring to a 9-1 lead. By 10 ends things looked very different. Ted Brown's rink led by 4 but Terry having lost a net 13 shots in these 5 ends was now trailing and the overall scores were tied at 21-21. The game continued to ebb and flow and from 10-15 ends Terry's rink scored a net 8 shots to lead by 4 and Ted moved out to 24-11 giving Oakley a 44-35 advantage. In the closing stages it was therefore a matter of keeping the scores tight and this was achieved with Oakley finally triumphing by 46-35. Scores: Mary Taylor, Paul Cresswell, Dave Huyton and Ted Brown won 25-11. June Harvie, Betty Hill, Ric Newson and Terry Heath lost 21-24
12thSeptember 2011 - FINALS DAY DOUBLE FOR TERRY
The weather forecast was not good for Finals Weekend so Competition Secretary Margaret decided to try and play all the games on Saturday. On an overcast morning the first four events began at 10am and Terry Heath and Peter Stewart were first off the green after a comprehensive 21-4 victory for Terry in the Open Singles. It looked as if the Men's Singles would also be a short game when Ric Newson stormed into a 15-3 lead over Trevor Wearn. However the latter fought back although eventually Ric retained his title with a 21-16 win. The Ladies' Singles had some fine heads but Janie Vickers was too strong for Nancy Goosey and landed her first Ladies' title with a 21-10 win. The final game of the morning saw two players James Sallows and Chris Lee making their Finals Day debuts and James triumphed 21-11 in the Acorn Singles
By now the weather was deteriorating and Margaret took the decision to bring forward the starting times of the remaining games. The Pairs began at noon and it was soon obvious that this game would not take long. With Terry maintaining his morning form and Kay Kerley pulling out all the shots, their opponents Mary Taylor and Spencer Kerley were simply overwhelmed and as the rain became heavier the game was conceded with the score at 22-7, thus giving Terry two titles. Trevor Wearn had started the day with hopes of a double but in the final match the 2 Wood Singles he had to settle again for runner up after being beaten 17-10 by former winner Martin Smith.
5th September 2011 - TRIPLES TRIUMPH
At Banister Park this afternoon the Oakley triple of Mary Taylor, Ruth Bown and Kay Kerley took on a Cowplain triple, skipped by Pam Lambshead, in the Bowls Hampshire Ladies' Triples Final. The game, which because of Hampshire's success in the Johns Trophy, had been delayed from July, began in brilliant sunshine but by the time the trial ends had been completed there was rain, although the green itself ran freely. Oakley, finding line and length immediately, cruised into an 8-2 lead after 5 ends and by 10 ends had increased this lead further to 15 shots to 4. Cowplain pulled back 4 shots over the next 2 ends but by now water was lying on the green and at 12 ends, the Cowplain triple decided to concede the game so making Oakley County Champions. Congratulations to all our three players. Although Oakley players have in the past lifted the Singles, Pairs and Fours county titles this is the first occasion the Triples has been won by the Club
31st August 2011 - CONGRATULATIONS JANIE
Well done Janie Vickers who today learnt that she was successful at the County Badge Trial and is now eligible to play for Bowls Hampshire. Janie will be presented with her badge on her first game
26th August 2011 - GEORGINA MAKES NHWBA FINAL
Georgina Heath has reached the Final of the North Hants Women's Bowling Association Singles by winning her semi 21-16. Congratulations and good luck in the Final
26th August 2011 - A BDBA FINAL WIN AT LAST
On Sunday afternoon at Marnell, Martin Smith and Eric Lamkin took on a Pair from AWRE, skipped by previous winner Keith Lavery, in the Final of the BDBA pairs. AWRE began as favourites but a 4 on the first end boosted Oakley and with Eric bowling almost every shot called by his lead Martin Oakley were in control throughout the game and emerged comfortable winners
25th August 2011 - WHITCHURCH LEAGUE WINNER
Oakley was guaranteed a winner in the Whitchurch League Singles when, on Monday evening, the final was contested between Ric Newson and Terry Heath. As is his habit Ric got off to a flying start and led 10-4 after 11 ends and 18-10 after 21ends .He was then pegged back by Terry but after 26 ends Ric still led 20-16 and looked likely to win. Four successive singles for Terry saw the scores tied at 20-20 at 30 ends before, in the darkness, Ric managed to get the single that gave him the title
24th August 2011 - MIXED FORTUNES AT BDBA FINALS
The BDBA Finals were played over the weekend at the President's Club, Marnell. With contestants in three events there were hopes that Oakley would pick up some silverware, unlike last year when we failed to provide a single finalist. First up was Ric Newson who took on Jim Horne of Andover in the Champion of Champions Final, the start of which was delayed by heavy rain. On a heavy green Ric began well moving into a 10-3 lead, only for Jim to draw level at 13-13 and move out to a 19-13 lead. Ric rallied to 19-17 but with Jim holding one shot Ric knocked in another to lose 21-17
The following day in the Fours Final the Oakley rink of Terry Heath, Ric Newson, Spencer Kerley and Ted Brown began as favourites in their game against Thornycroft but after scoring a single on the first end Oakley failed to get to grips with a tricky and heavy rink that their opponents played better. At 18 ends they were, however, still in contention and holding 5 shots it looked as if they might finally move in front. It was not to be. Oakley managed to turn in a Thornys bowl for second bowl and the chance was gone as Thornys deservedly closed out the game.
Oakley's final opportunity was in the Pairs. A report on this will be published when available
20th August 2011 - GAZETTE CUP CALAMITY
An Oakley team, missing 4 players from the previous round, took on Alton Social Ladies, at Basingstoke Town, this morning in the semi final of the North Hants Women's Gazette Cup. Early exchanges just about went Oakley's way and at 3 ends we led by 1 although by 5 ends the scores were level. From there on it was all Alton and despite Gladys Fowles being 6 up we trailed by 9 at 10 ends. The deficit continued to increase and by 15 ends Oakley were down by 15, eventually losing by 52-34. Oakley scores: Mary Taylor, Coral Wearn and Kay Kerley lost 18-10, Betty Hill June Harvie and Cladys Fowles won 17-16, Nancy Goosey, Rita Meakin and Ruth Bown lost 23-8
17th August 2011 - ANOTHER BAD SUNDAY
The BDBA Over 60s pairs semi-final was played at Old Basing on Sunday 14th August. The two Johns (Wilson and Ford) played Bernie Rouse and Neil Jacobs of Basingstoke Town. The Town pair had defeated Roy Cooper and Dick Holden at Alton Social in the previous round so the Oakley boys knew the game would be difficult. At 7, 10 and 14 ends the scores were level but by the 18th end the Oakley pair had moved into a 5 shot lead at 18-13 .Some bad luck for Oakley and good bowls by the Town skip saw the lead reduced to 1 shot going into the last end. With 2 woods left Oakley held a precarious shot but Neil Jacobs moved the jack with his last wood, stayed a few inches short of it and brought in a side wood to hold 2 for game. John Ford played to turn out the shot and stop close by but missed the wood and jack by a fraction and ran through an inch too far leaving Town holding 2 for the game
16th August 2011 - RIC MAKES FINAL
Playing against Mick Seymour of Old Basing in the semii final of the Basingstoke and District Champion of Champions Ric trailed by 15-10 but 7 succesive winning ends saw him move into an 18 -15 lead. He then dropped four shots in 2 ends but on what was to prove to be the last end Ric, with his last bowl, removed Mick's shot to score 3 and triumph 21-18. The final will be played at Marnell at the weekend
10th August 2011 - WHAT IS IT WITH MORNINGS?
At Royal Leamington Spa this morning Georgina Heath took on Suffolk's Katherine Rednall in the first game of the National Under 25 Singles. Georgina began well and took an early 4-3 leave but her opponent then scored 9 unanswered shots before Georgina with a double pulled herself back into the game at 12-6 down. Hopes that this would be the start of a comeback were,however, soon dashed as no matter how well Georgina played her opponent did better moving out to a 17-7 lead and although Georgina then picked up 3 shots the game was closed out by Suffolk with a 21-10 victory. Rednall has subsequently won two more rounds.
9th August 2011 - BDBA FOURS SEMI FINAL
This evening on a tricky rink at Basingstoke Town the Oakley rink of Terry Heath, Ric Newson, Spencer Kerley and Ted Brown took on the Alton Social rink, skipped by Dick Holden, for a place in the Basingstoke and District Fours Final. Finding the green quicker than their opponents Oakley were soon 9-0 up and at halfway led by 15-1. Then the game swung and Social edged back into the game and when they picked up a five it seemed Oakley's early efforts might not be enough. However Oakley immediately responded with a four and though Dich Holden tried manfully to retrieve positions he could not do enough to prevent Oakley emerging the victors by 8 shots
8th August 2011 - MONDAY MORNING BLUES
Oakley's hopes that Mary Taylor, Ruth Bown and Kay Kerley would make an impact in the Triples event at the National Championships were soon dashed this morning. In cold and very blustery conditions they managed to score a single on the first end to take the lead for what was to be the only time in the match but from thereon the team struggled to find length and line. Losing 4 shots on the 3rd end and 5 on the 7th saw them trailing by 15-6 at 9 ends. With their opponents from Durham playing well it never looked as if Oakley would stage one of their renowned fightbacks and so it proved with our team conceding the game at 17 ends when losing by 20-10.
7th August 2011 - A BAD DAY AT THE OFFICE
Having won 4-1 at Andover in a recent league game Oakley were probably slight favourites to win the Hants and Berks Final played this morning at Marnell BC. Today, however showed that past results are not always a reliable guide to future performance. Whether it was a hang over from the previous days BBQ or a lack of cohesion within the team will never be known but Oakley failed totally to leave the starting blocks. After 5 ends John Ford's rink was down 7-3, Ted Brown's by 7-1 and Spencer Kerley's by 8-0. Matters only got worse as by 10 ends we were adrift by 41 shots to 12. A rout was on the cards but to the teams credit they hung in there and by 15 ends the deficit had been reduced slightly to 26 shots. A further push over the remaining ends saw the deficit reduce still further but in the end Andover emerged deserved winners and lifted the Cup for the first time. Oakley Scores: Dave Huyton, James Sallows, Barry Lee and Ted Brown lost 19-15, Terry Heath, Sean Lassman , Ric Newson and Spencer Kerley lost 20-11, Martin Smith, Eric Lamkin, Trevor Wearn and John Ford lost 26-15
6th August 2011 - AMY ROSE RESULTS
At Leamington Spa this morning two rinks of Hampshire Under 31s set out in the Amy Rose Trophy to try and emulate he success of the senior team last weekend. They began against Northamptonshire and at 5 ends the deficit was 8 shots with the rink in which Oakley's Georgina Heath was playing finding themselves 0-10 down. Some juidicial moving of the mat served however to unsettle the opposition and at 10 ends the deficit was 5 and at 15 ends still only 6.. Indeed with a total of only 6 ends remaining Hampshire had a 4 shot lead although 2 ends later and with Georgina's rink having finished the scores were tied. With 2 ends to play Hampshire were down by 3 but a 2 on the 20th end gave them the chance for skip Kim McConnell to draw two superb bowls to allow Hampshire to move into the Quarter Final
For the afternoon session Hampshire's hopes were not high as the opposition Kent had within their team some high calibre players including Commonwealth Games medallist and International skip Sian Gordon. At 5 ends the deficit was again only 8 but from there on Kent moved up a gear and by 15 ends were 25 shots ahead. The rink containing Georgina managed eventually to squeeze out a 2 shot victory but overall Kent triumphed by 43-27
5th August 2011 - OAKLEY WIN BDBA PAIRS SEMI
On Tuesday evening at Basingstoke Town, Martin Smith and Eric Lamkin took on Gary Johnson and Ian Urquart of Alton Social for a place in the Basingstoke and District Pairs Semi final. It was a tight game throughout and as the last end began Oakley trailed 18-19. With his last bowl Eric scored the single to take Oakley into an extra end where the shot bowl changed several times until yet again Eric with his last bowl faced a game lie. In the gathering darkness at 9.28 pm he was heard to exclaim that he could not see the jack but somehow he drew the shot and took Oakley through. Martin and Eric will now be looking to become the fifth Oakley winners of the BDBA Pairs
2nd August 2011 - BUSY WEEK AHEAD AT LEAMINGTON
Saturday sees the start of what will be a busy week for Oakley players at the National Championships at Leamington. First up will be Georgina Heath, representing Hampshire against Northamptonshire in the Amy Rose Under 31 team competition. This game commences at 9.15. Then late on Sunday afternoon the Oakley Triple of Mary Taylor, Ruth Bown and Kay Kerley are proposing to play their delayed County Triples Final against Cowplain before both teams start the Nationals on Monday morning. Finally Georgina returns to the green on Wednesday 10th, taking on Suffolk, in the Under 25s Championship. Good Luck to all the players.
2nd August 2011 - WHITCHURCH LEAGUE SINGLES SUCCESSES
Oakley are guaranteed to provide the winner of this year's Whitchurch and District League Singles, after both Terry Heath and Ric Newson won their respective semi finals. Terry had a comfortable win over clubmate Peter Stewart and Ric looked to be heading for an easy win over Edward Jesney of Marnell when he was leading 16-4. In the end it was a narrow 21-18 win. Congratulations to both players
30th July 2011 - OAKLEY LADIES IN JOHNS THRILLERS
It was a nervous morning for the vociferous Hampshire supporters at Leamington as the County attempted to reach the Johns Final for the second time in 4 years. Playing against Cumbria Hampshire began poorly and at 5 ends trailled by 14 shots with the rink containing Carolyn Ford and Kay Kerley down by 3-5. By half way the score had deteriorated further with Hampshire down by 21 and our players down 5-9. It was the rink containing Carolyn and Kay that then spearheaded a Hampshire recovery. Scoring 10 unanswered shots over the next 5 ends they contributed greatly to Hampshire reducing the defecit to just 3 shots at 15 ends. The momentum was now with Hampshire and by 19 ends they were 3 shots up but Cumbria came again and as Whitchurch's Linda Hayward played the last end the lead was just 1 shot. A three for Linda's rink saw Hampshire scrape home by 123-119.
The afternoon Final saw Hampshire taking on Devon with their galaxy of international players led by Commonwealth Champion Natalie Melmore With a younger team and not having a tough morning game and with the temperature soaring Devon were firm favourites to win. Yet again Kay drew an outside rink and at 5 ends her rink was 2-7 down although the overall scores were tied. By 10 ends Hampshire had increased their lead to 13 shots but there was little change over the third quarter with Hampshire hanging on to an 11 shot lead. With just 10 ends left to play Hampshire had moved out to a 22 shot lead and their supporters at the green and on mobiles were becoming increasingly confident of victory .Devon, however, never give up and two scores of five meant that Hampshire led by only 11 shots with 5 ends to play. That lead was to prove decisive as Hampshire ran out deserved victors by 13 shots
The Club's congratulations go to President Hazel, who will have been thrilled to lift the prestigious trophy in what is Bowls Hampshire's first year but also to our own two players, who along with Jean Arnaud of Atherley and Muriel Sadler of Hook, formed a rink that was the only one to go undefeated in the 2011 Competition.
28th July 2011 - HANTS AND BERKS TRIUMPH
This evening, at the BDBA Presidents green at Marnell, Oakley took on Old Basing in the semi final of the Hants and Berks Cup. Expectations were not high as we had suffered a heavy reverse on our green to Old Basing in the BDBA League and their chosen team for tonights game looked on paper stronger than that which had played in the League. At 5 ends Oakley led by 2 shots and there was still little in the game at !0 ends with John Fords rink up by 6 and the other two rinks leading by 1. Between 10 and 15 ends Oakley prospered and at 15 ends John Ford's rink led by 4 and Spencer Kerley's and Ted Brown's were both up 6. Oakley, at that stage, looked to be heading for a comfortable win but the Old Basing rink, skipped by Graham Hillier had a purple patch scoring 4 on the 18th end, 6 on the !9th and 5 on the 21st. Fortunately, however, by the time the 5 was drppped the other Oakley rinks had finished comfortably in front and the Basing rally was in vane with Oakley winning by 71 shots to 54. Scores:Dave Huyton, James Sallows, Terry Heath and Ted Brown won 28-14, Martin Smith, Barry Lee, Trevor Wearn and John Ford lost 17-27, Sean Lassman, John Wilson, Eric Lamkin and Spencer Kerley won 26-13
Oakley will now play Andover in the Final.
21st July 2011 - GAZETTE CUP PROGRESS
This evening at a rain swept Malshanger, Oakley Ladies took on Yateley in the quarter final of the Gazette Cup. It was to be a difficult evening. Whilst the triple skipped by Kay Kerley was always in control the other two triples found life hard and throughout the game only a few shots separated the teams. With 6 ends to go and an 8 shot lead Oakley looked comfortable but as the last end was played by Olive Carrier's team Oakley were hanging on to a slender 4 shot lead. Fortunately Yateley could manage only two and Oakley reached the semi by the narrowest of margins. Oakley scores; Gladys Fowles, Carolyn Ford and Ruth Bown lost by 9, Nancy Goosey, Janie Vickers and Olive Carrier lost by 9, Mary Taylor, Georgina Heath and Kay Kerley won by 20
19th July 2011 - THREE IN JOHNS SQUAD
Congratulations to Carolyn Ford and Kay Kerley who have retained their places in the Bowls Hampshire team to play Cumbria in the National semi final of the Johns to be played at Royal Leamington Spa on 30th July. Joining them in the squad will be Mary Taylor, who has been selected as a travelling reserve.
15th July 2011 - ANOTHER TRIP TO LEAMINGTON
This morning at Banister Park, Southampton, Mary Tayor, Ruth Bown and Kay Kerley continued their quest to reach the National Finals in the Triples when they took on the New Milton Triple of Margaret Whale, Mary Herily and Chris Mays. For New Milton it was their first time at this stage of county competitions and Oakley were always seemingly in control of the game and by 15 ends had established a 17-7 lead. There was, however, a scare at 16 ends when New Milton were holding 6 shots but Oakley managed to secure second bowl and eventually won by 20 shots to 9.
The afternoon game was always going to be a more testing experience. Ranged against Oakley were three current Johns Players, one of whom Jean Arnaud was an International Triallist in 2011, Margaret Darkin at 2 had already qualified with Arnaud for Leamington in the Pairs and at skip was the redoubtable Wendy Line,former Commonwealth Champion, 3 times National Singles Champions and already qualified for Leamington in 2 events. The early ends were evenly contested and at 5 ends the scores were tied at 4-4. Oakley then made a move and at 7 ends were 4 up, a lead they held until the 11th end when Atherley scored 4 to take the lead at 10-11. A further 2 saw Atherley go further ahead but Oakley bounced back with a 3 to tie matters up at 13 ends. A three for Atherley looked ominous but Oakley responded with a 3 of their own to again tie the scores at 16-16. The match was now too tight to call but a 2 and a single saw Oakley go into the last end 3 up and emerge triumphant by 19-17. For Oakley and those members who travelled to Southampton to support them it was consolation for the narrow defeat they suffered at Atherley's hands in last years Rinks semi final and they now go forward to represent Hampshire in The National Finals at Royal Leamington Spa on Monday 8th August when they take on Durham "A". The other successful Hampshire Triple was from Cowplain who Oakley will play, on a date to be agreed, to decide which team will be the 2011 County Champions.
12th July 2011 - CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to Carolyn Ford who played her third Johns Trophy game against Buckinghamshire and as a result was presented with her JT Badge by President Hazel Marke. Carolyn becomes the fourth person to receive her badge whilst being a member of Oakley
12th July 2011 - HAMPSHIRE STORM TO LEAMINGTON
This afternoon at Wokingham Bowls Hampshire Ladies played Buckinghamshire in the Group Final of the Johns Trophy with the prize for the winners being a semi final place at Leamington,the home of Ladies' Bowls. Hampshire began well and at 5 ends led by 6 shots although by 10 ends the Bucks Ducks had fought back well and the scores were tied at 53-53. Hampshire by 15 ends had slipped behind by 7 shots and the omens were not good. However a strong push over the concluding ends saw the County home by what, in the end, was a comfortable margin of 119-101. Our two Oakley players in the team, Carolyn Ford and Kay Kerley were in a rink that drew 15-15. The draw for the semi final has yet to take place but it and the Final will be staged on 30th July at Leamington. A fuller report on the game will appear shortly on the Bowls Hampshire website.
11th July 2011 - COUNTY CLUB DISASTER
Tonight Oakley travelled to Aldershot to take on Traction in the first round of the County Club Championship. For just 2 ends Oakley were in the lead and in contention but from there on the wheels fell off the trolley as we were comprehensively outbowled by one of the strongest teams in the county. Such was Traco's dominance that at about 18 ends Vice Captain Ric conceded the game so putting every one out of their misery. Still it was a nice sunny evening and we were home early! Oakley scores: Peter Stewart, David Clewer, Eric Lamkin and Spencer Kerley lost 9-15, Dave Huyton, James Sallows, Ric Newson and Ted Brown lost 14-16, John Wilson, Derek Easton, Martin Smith and John Ford lost 4-36, John Green, Paul Cresswell, Sean Lassman and Trevor Wearn lost 9-26
10th July 2011 - CLUB TRIPLES DAY
Today at Malshanger there was an attendance of over 45 members for the Clubs first one day tournament of the year and it was good to see many new members participating. The round robin games were played in glorious sunshine and the eventual winners in the Final were Averil Adams, Sean Lassman and Bob Alexander who beat Frank Tuffs, Sandra Lee and Ric Newson. Thanks go to all who helped on the day and particularly to Margaret Lee, the organiser.
9th July 2011 - LADIES BOW OUT OF COUNTY TOP CLUB
Oakley Ladies this morning played at Old Basing in the Area Final of the County Top Club against Hook. The game began promisingly and at 5 ends Oakley were ahead in three of the four disciplines but with the Singles losing narrowly. The game remained close but gradually the pendulum swung Hooks way and by 12 ends the scores were tied at 2 disciplines each, though Hook were ahead on aggregate shots because the Triples had fallen behind by 10 shots. Shortly after this Hook won the Singles to take the first point and it was going to take something special to turn the game round. A great fight back saw the Triples close to within 2 shots but sadly the Pairs had slipped behind and although the Rink won Oakley had to concede defeat by 3 disciplines to 1. Scores; Mary Taylor lost 16-21, June Harvie and Coral Wearn lost 15-22, Nancy Goosey, Janie Vickers and Olive Carrier lost 21-23, Betty Hill, Carolyn Ford, Ruth Bown and Kay Kerley won 20-14. Hook now go forward to the County Finals at Banister Park.
7th July 2011 - COUNTY BADGE FOR ERIC LAMKIN
Congratulations to Eric Lamkin who was presented with his County Badge today after playing in the Bowls Hampshire game against his old county Buckinghamshire
6th July 2011 - BOTH PAIRS MISS OUT
Today at Howard Park the pairs of Mary Taylor and Kay Kerley and Janie Vickers and Ruth Bown knew that if they both won their Area semi final games they would play each other in the Area Final for a place at Southampton. It was not to be. Mary and Kay lost a close afternoon game by 20-17 to June Ward -Higgs and Brenda Plumpton of Alton Social but Oakley still had a good chance for one pair to progress when Janie and Ruth triumphed, after a nail bail biting extra end, against Pauline Tilley and Rosemary Pocock of Kingsclere. The evening game was equally nail biting. A five on the 4th end saw Oakley leading 6-4 after 5 ends and at 11 ends the lead had extended to 13-6. Alton hung in and by 17 ends the lead had been reduced to 3 but with just 2 ends to play Oakley led 18-14. An Alton five on the 20th end was, however, to be the turning point. It saw them take a lead of one shot into the last end and try as they might the Oakley pair could not recover the situation and went down finally by 21-18.
5TH July 2011 - SUCCESS IN COUNTY AREA LAST EIGHTS
Today at Hook Mary Taylor, Ruth Bown and Kay Kerley took part in the last Eights of the Northern Area Triples. In the afternoon they took on a triple from Farnborough Gate, whose first time it was at this stage, and in heavy rain won fairly comfortably by 18-9 having gone into the last end 16-9 up. The second game against a Fleet United triple skipped by Paula Vickery was expected to be more difficult but 6 shots on the first two ends put Oakley in the driving seat and their opponents eventually conceded at 17 ends when 20-10 down. Oakley will now play next week in the County Quarter Finals at Banister Park. Normally the games would be on Tuesday but as Hampshire will be playing the Johns Trophy Zone Final that day we do not yet know date or time
3rd July 2011 - A HECTIC WEEKEND
It has been a busy weekend at the Club. On Friday evening we were honoured to be invited by Bowls Hampshire to stage the Area Finals of the Men's County Singles and this resulted in wins for Chris Cranham of Traco and 18 year old Daniel Taylor of Cove. Then on Saturday we hosted for Bowls Hampshire a six rink County game v Wiltshire and on Sunday morning we had a 4 rink Bowls Hampshire Under 25 match against Berkshire. To cap a busy weekend the club played on Sunday afternoon a 6 rink friendly v Loddon Vale. All our visitors but particularly those from Wiltshire and Berkshire were delighted to play on such a good surface and very complimentary about the green and the hard work that had been put in by the greens team. Everyone too could not praise enough the exceptional efforts by all those members who helped with the catering and bar. It was a major logistical effort to provide a full meal on Saturday and then on Sunday to have bacon butties available for the juniors on their arrival, a lunch for them of chicken chips and beans and finally to put on a buffet after the friendly. Many people contributed to this effort but a special mention should go to Margaret Lee for organising the catering so well and coping apparently so effortlessly with the changes in numbers etc. All who helped over the weekend did the club proud and only tonight the Hampshire Middleton Cup Manager, Derek Collins, has phoned to say how well the green played and how much the County appreciated the work put in by those who did the catering and bar
29th June 2011 - A NIGHT TO FORGET
For David Huyton, Terry Heath and Ted Brown, tonight's Area Final of the Triples at Cove is one they will wish quickly to forget Playing against an Aldershot Traction rink, skipped by Chris Cranham, Oakley trailed only 3-1 after 4 ends but disasters on the 5th and 7th ends saw Traco run out to a 16-2 lead from which, hard as they tried, Oakley could not recover and the game was conceded at an early stage. In the other game Basingstoke Town beat Whitchurch and will join Traco in representing the North at the County Finals
.
28th June 2011 - ANOTHER JOHNS WIN FOR HAMPSHIRE
Today at Pyestock, Hampshire recovered from a 25-32 deficit at 5 ends to win their Johns Trophy game v Surrey by 128-99. It was a particularly pleasing recovery for Oakley's Carolyn Ford and Kay Kerley, playing with Jean Arnauld from Atherley and Muriel Sadler from Hook, as they dropped seven shots on the first end but ran out 24-18 winners. Hampshire now play Bucks for a place in the semi finals at Leamington. A full report should appear shortly on the Bowls Hampshire website
27th June 2011 - HANTS AND BERKS WIN
Yesterday morning at Malshanger, Oakley Men took on Whitchurch in the quarter final of the Hants and Berks Cup. With a team showing 3 changes and several other positional changes from that which played in the last round and following a heavy defeat by Old Basing in Fridays League game there were concerns about Oakley's ability to front up. These concerns were however swiftly dispelled as the rinks of Trevor Wearn and Ted Brown scored 16 unanswered shots on the first 3 ends and by 5 ends Oakley led 18-9. This lead was increased to 37-19 by 10 ends and from thereon Oakley never wavered, emerging comfortable winners by 71-49. Oakley scores: Sean Lassman, Eric Lamkin, Barry Lee and Trevor Wearn won 29-13, David Huyton,Paul Cresswell, Ric Newson and Ted Brown won 30-10, Martin Smith, David Clewer, Barry allard and John Ford lost 12-26
19th June 2011 - County Top Club Success
On Saturday morning Oakley Ladies played at Kingsclere in the county Top Club and the morning began well with Mary Taylor first home with an impressive 21 – 8 victory over Hannah Burden.
The pairs of Carolyn Ford and Coral Wearn were struggling with the green and at 11 ends were 9 shots down.The triple of Nancy Goosey, Janie Vickers and Olive Carrier were nip and tuck at the same stage.
The rink of Betty Hill, Gladys Fowles, Ruth Bown and Georgina Heath were however 14 shots up. The rain kept coming and going, but Oakley’s resolve held strong and the pairs suddenly pulled back to all square at 16 ends. The triple finished 14-18 down, but the rinks having picked up an eight along the way were 43 – 7 up at 20 ends. At this point with the pairs level at 16-16 and knowing that the best Kingsclere could do would be to draw the match 2 – 2 but lose on overall shot difference the Kingsclere captain Sheila Cook conceded the match to Oakley.
Oakley are now in the Area Final which will be played on the weekend of 9 / 10th July against Hook BC on a neutral green.
19th June 2011 - THORNBERY TROPHY
On Thursday evening Oakley took to the green at Fleet United in the rain and after 2 ends were 9 shots down overall. As the weather improved so did Oakley’s chances of a win.
The team skipped by Georgina Heath were having a tight game, and at 17 ends were 14 all. The team rallied and finished the game 5 shots up.
The team skipped by Olive Carrier had got off to a bad start, but dug deep to get to a score of 17 – 22 t 20 ends. This meant the tie was all down to the final end to be played by Olive’s team.
When the skips changed ends Oakley were 2 shots up, but the Fleet skip drew shot with her last wood This left Olive with one wood, the only option was to attack the shot bowl, which she managed to do. However, the jack was moved to the right of the green and Fleet gained 4 shots. Had the jack gone the other way Oakley would have won the game.
The team of N Goosey, C Wearn, J Vickers and O Carrier lost 17 – 26 and the team of M Taylor, C Ford, R Bown and G Heath won 20 – 15.
16th June 2011 - CONGRATULATIONS ON REACHING AREA FINAL
Tonight at Malshanger, the Oakley Triple of David Huyton, Terry Heath and Ted Brown took on an Alton Social team, skipped by David Elliott, looking to progress to the Northern Area Finals of the County Triples. After the heavy rain the green was heavier than normal but Oakley adapted better to the conditions and won by 24-12. They will play either Farnborough or Aldershot Traction on 29th June at a venue yet to be announced for a place in the coveted County Last Eights
16th June 2011 - JOHNS WIN FOR HAMPSHIRE
Yesterday at Yateley Hampshire Ladies, having at one stage been 30 shots up, sneaked a narrow 2 shot win over Middlesex to progress to the next round of the Johns Trophy. A full report is on the Bowls Hampshire website. Both the Oakley players have retained their places for the next game
15th June 2011 - MEN BOW OUT OF TOP CLUB
This evening Oakley Men took on the might of Aldershot Traction in the National Top Club competition
. Against a side containing 8 current or ex Middleton Cup players it was always going to be a tough ask but the evening began promisingly with a good win by Barry Allard in the 2 Wood Singles. However Traco soon levelled the scores when Kevin Philip, a very able substitute for Leo May, took the 4 wood singles against Terry Heath. By now the Traco rink was almost out of sight but John Ford's triple was holding a narrow lead and it was clear that if Oakley were to get a shock win our pairs, who were 6 down, needed to do the business. It was not to be .Although the triple held on for a fine win, the pairs faded badly and the match was lost by 3 disciplines to 2. Scores; Barry Allard won 17-8, Terry Heath lost 9-21, Ric Newson and Spencer Kerley lost 8-24, Martin Smith, Trevor Wearn and John Ford won 14-13, David Huyton, Barry Lee, Eric Lamkin and Ted Brown lost 5-35
14th June 2011 - SUCCESSFUL CHARITY DAY
Sunday saw the Berkshire Granfers arrive at Oakley for the Annual Game, the proceeds of which go to local charities. Sadly for all concerned the game did not take place as the rain that had begun overnight came down ever more heavily as the day progressed and by mutual agreement at the start time it was decided to stay in the dry. At short notice, a Quiz was arranged and it was enjoyed by all present. The weather did not however dampen the enthusiam for fund raising and over the afternoon the splendid total of £340 (some £70 up on last year) was raised for the charities. This total included a staggering £200 on the Dutch Auction. the bottle for which was kindly donated by Martin Smith
14th June 2011 - COUNTY TOP CLUB
On Saturday morning Oakley Ladies travelled to Yateley to play a County Top Club game. The morning began well with Georgina Heath playing the Singles notching up a relatively comfortable victory over Stella Waller and with both the rinks and pairs getting off to good starts it did not seem to matter that the triples were struggling. Things did become a little tight towards the end but eventually Oakley triumphed in three of the four disciplines giving our Ladies a 3-1 win. Oakley scores; Georgina Heath won 21-12, June Harvie and Coral Wearn won16-15, Nancy Goosey, Janie Vickers and Olive Carrier lost 12-25, Mary Taylor, Christine Williams, Carolyn Ford and Kay Kerley won 22-15
4th June 2011 - DOUBLE OVER TOWN
This morning at Fairfields Road, Oakley Ladies took on Basingstoke Town Ladies in the Hampshire Top Club competition. With Captain Ruth Bown sidelined, following her Appendix operation, Oakley were forced into a late change in playing positions when Mary Taylor had to withdraw on the morning of the game. Georgina Heath, however stepped up to the mark to win the Singles and give Oakley the first point. Kay Kerley's rink began well and were 11-1 up and with the triples scoring freely and the pairs tight it looked as if Oakley would cruise to a comfortable win. However the wheels fell off for the rinks and for a while it looked as if the result could be 2-2 with the winners being decided on the aggregate scores. Fortunately though the pairs eased to a win and Oakley won by 3 disciplines to 1. Scores; Georgina Heath won 21-18, June Harvie and Coral Wearn won 21-18, Nancy Goosey, Janie Vickers and Olive Carrier won 19-6, Betty Hill, Vera Rhodes, Carolyn Ford and Kay Kerley lost 14-30
Meantime at Malshanger, Oakley Men were also taking on the Town, this time in the three rink Hants and Berks Cup. As League Champions Town began as favourites but Oakley were soon into their stride and at 5 ends held a 10 shot overall lead. By 10 ends the lead had been reduced to 6 shots but Oakley came again and eventually triumphed on all three rinks winning by 63-42. Scores: David Huyton, Sean Lassman, Barry Lee and Trevor Wearn won 18-12, Martin Smith, David Clewer, John Wilson and John Ford won 28-14, Barry Allard, Vic Ayres, Terry Heath and Ric Newson won 17-16. .
2nd June 2011 GOOD RESULT IN MEN'S TOP CLUB
On Wednesday evening Oakley played at home to Cove "B" in what was the club's third game in the National Top Club competition and a team showing 2 changes and 9 positional changes from that in the first round emerged triumphant. Oakley made a great start with Barry Allard edging the 2 wood singles and when Terry Heath strolled home in the 4 wood singles Oakley for the first time for some years found themselves 2-0 up and needing only 1 point from the remaining three disciplines. At this stage the triples were struggling, the pairs close and the rinks holding a 10 shot lead. A fight back by Cove in the rinks saw them draw to within 3 shots but scores of 2 and 4 on the 19th and 20th ends closed out the game. The pairs had at this stage finished all square after 21 ends and it was deemed unnecessary to play the extra end as Oakley had the necessary 3 points. Scores; Barry Allard won 15-12, Terry Heath won 21-4, Martin Smith and Ric Newson drew 19-19, Sean Lassman, Eric Lamkin and Trevor Wearn lost 14-21, Dave Huyton, Peter Stewart, Barry Lee and John Ford won 23-14
31st May 2011 COUNTY PRESIDENT'S DAY AT OAKLEY
The green and its surrounds were today in immaculate condition as Bowls Hampshire President Spencer Kerley welcomed his invited guests to Malshanger for his President's Day. The day began with a superb four course lunch, organised by Margaret Lee, and served by club members and after the meal Spencer formally welcomed all his visitors, pointing out that this was the first Bowls Hampshire Presidents Day and that as a result there were this year a good many more Ladies in attendance. He thanked Sir Michael and Lady Colman for all their support over the years. He gave apologies for the absence of Ladies' President Hazel Marke who had been delayed in Shanghai but was now the proud grandmother of twins .He then presented gifts to Margaret, his wife Kay and to BH secretary Graham King. In the absence of Hazel, Ladies Senior Vice President then proposed a vote of thanks.
Following the meal, guests either took part in the tradional President v Senior Vice President game, won by the Presidents team or by invitation of Lady Colman wandered aroung the gardens of Malshanger House. Finally all returned to the clubhouse where the President cut the Cake so ably baked by Sandra Lee.
30th May 2011 LADIES BOW OUT OF TOP CLUB
Drawn away once again at Cove in the National Top Club competition Oakley Ladies began the morning brightly with Mary Taylor comfortably beating Irene Galpin 21-7 in the Singles. It was however a different story in the other disciplines. The pair of June Harvie and Coral Wearn held their own for a while but the triples and fours were always struggling to hold determined opponents and eventually Oakley were well beaten in all three disciplines. Oakley scores; Mary Taylor won 21-7, June Harvie and Coral Wearn lost 9-25, Averil Adams, Nancy Goosey and Janie Vickers lost 8-20, Betty Hill, Vera Rhodes, Carolyn Ford and Kay Kerley lost 8-26
28th May 2011 NATIONAL MEN'S TWO FOURS
This morning Oakley Men played away at Yateley in the Men's National Two Fours. Arriving at 9.30am for a 10.00am start it was soon obvious that our hosts thought the game was at 10.30am but sadly the extra "preparation" time did nothing for our team who in the early stages struggled to find the pace of the green and at 5 ends we were down 9-16. John Ford's rink then began to rally and by 10 ends they led 14-10. Spencer Kerley's rink, however,were well off the pace and losing 4-21. The next five ends saw something of an Oakley rally. Spencer's team reduced their deficit to 10 shots and with John moving into a 9 shot lead hopes began to rise that with only one shot in it we might make a spectacular comeback. It was not to be as eventually both rinks lost. Scores: David Huyton, Sean Lassman, Trevor Wearn and John Ford lost 23-26, Martin Smith, Eric Lamkin, Ric Newson and Spencer Kerley lost 20-27
27th May 2011 TWO SELECTED FOR THE JOHNS
Two Oakley players have been selected to play for Hampshire in the prestigious Johns Trophy competition. For Carolyn Ford it will be a special occasion as although she has been reserve on a number of occasions, including during Hampshire's title winning year, this will be her long awaited debut in the event. It will also be a special occasion for Kay Kerley as this will be her 25th successive year in the team. Congratulations go to both players and we wish them well in the game against Middlesex on the 14th June
27th May 2011 GAZETTE CUP
Last night at Old Basing, Oakley Ladies took on Old Basing Ladies in the Gazette Cup. With Captain Ruth Bown sidelined, the Ladies showes their intent from the start with Gladys Fowles' triple picking up a first end 5, Olive Carrier's a 6 and with Kay Kerley scoring a 2 Oakley were 13 shots up and in command. From here they never looked back and eventually ran out comfortable winners by 65 shots to 28. Oakley scores: Betty Hill, Carolyn Ford and Gladys Fowles won 19-9, Nancy Goosey, Janie Vickers and Olive Carrier won 19-10, Mary Taylor, Coral Wearn and Kay Kerley won 27-9
22nd May 2011 NATIONAL TOP CLUB WIN
Yesterday morning at Malshanger, Oakley took on Howard Park in the National Top Club competition. Fresh from a fine win over Cove A the visitors began as favourites but a close game was anticipated and so it proved. Oakley drew first blood with Spencer Kerley, unusually, playing the 2 Wood Singles winning his match and as he left the green Terry Heath went on to play the 4 Wood Singles. At this stage the match was finely balanced with the Triples in front but the Pairs and Fours losing and the result hung in the balance for most of the morning. Eventually, however, Oakley dug out a 3-2 win. Oakley scores: Spencer Kerley won 16-6, Terry Heath lost 13-21, Martin Smith and Ric Newson won 22-12, Shaun Lassman, Eric Lamkin and Trevor Wearn won 21-17, Dave Huyton, James Sallows, Barry Lee and John Ford lost10-19
16th May 2011 PAVILION FUND RAISING GAME
Yesterday at Malshanger our friends the Berkshire Granfers kindly brought a team to the club in order to help our fund raising efforts for the new pavilion. The game itself was played in dry but blustery conditions and resulted in a win for the visitors. Everyone then retired to the pavilion where after refreshments a Dutch Auction was held and raised the wonderful total of £170. A Granfer won the Auction and generously handed back the bottle which then sold for a further £55. The Granfers also donated to the club all their match fees and when the spider and raffle were taken into account the Day raised the splendid sum of almost £450. Our sincere thanks go to all those Granfers and Oakley members who so generously supported the event. We look forward to playing the Berkshire Granfers again later in the season when funds raised will go local charities.
3rd May 2011 - NATIONAL TOP CLUB RESULT
Tonight in the National Men's Top Club Competition Oakley made a short trip to take on local rivals Hook. Our hopes were not high having lost narrowly to Hook twice in this competition and having lost by one shot to them in last years Hants and Berks Cup. Early on the pessimism looked well founded with Oakley trailing in four of the five disciplines. The first game to finish went Hook's way with Martin Smith going down in the Two Wood Singles but then Terry Heath emerged victorious from a close battle in the Four Wood Singles to tie the scores at 1-1. At this stage the Triples were well down, our Rinks well up and the Pairs looked to be recovering somewhat from an early 12-5 deficit. It was to be a nail biting evening. The Triple of Barry Allard, John Ford and Trevor Wearn, playing against a strong Hook team, came back well but eventually went down to a narrow defeat and this left us needing to win the two remaining disciplines to emerge triumphant overall. We did it. The Rink of Dave Huyton, Barry Lee, Eric Lamkin and Ted Brown and the Pair of Ric Newson and Spencer Kerley both won and Oakley triumphed by 3 points to 2. Well done to all the players and thank you to all our supporters. In the next round Oakley are home to the winners of Cove and Howard Park
1st May 2011 - SUCCESSFUL RACE NIGHT
Another successful Race Night was held yesterday at the Malshanger Club. Numbers were down on last year but everyone had a convivial evening and thanks go to Margaret Lee and her team of helpers for providing an excellent buffet. Thanks go also to our generous sponsers and to all those who became owners, bet on the races and bought raffle tickets. In all and excluding bar profits the evening raised over £800 which is to be added to the new pavilion fund
24th March 2011 - SEASON BEGINS
Yesterday on a warm Easter Saturday the club welcomed some 50 members, including some new faces, to the green for our opening Spoon Drive. As we drove up to the green it was a delight to see the bluebells in the woods and the trees covered in blossom and on arrival all were impressed by the hard work that had been undertaken to ensure that the green was in good condition. Initially the green was a little pushy, particularly for those making the transition from Indoors, but soon people were learning to use their arms again and there was, by the end a general consensus that the pace was good for the beginning of the season. It was a very hot afternoon, with no breeze, but some good bowls were played with Coral Wearn picking up the prize for best lady and Peter Stewart, after a three way tie, that for best man.
6th March 2011 - CUSHEON SEMI FINAL DEFEAT
Oakley went down to defeat in the semi final of the Cusheon Trophy played last night at Loddon Vale. The start was disappointing and after 5 ends Oakley trailed Camberley by 16 shots to 5. Matters did not improve over the next 5 ends with the deficit increasing to 17 shots and by the 15th end we were 38-20 down. A mini revival then began and over the next 3 ends Oakley picked up 7 shots. Time was,however,not on our side and the final result was a win for Camberley by 41-32
Oakley scores: Terry Heath, Gladys Fowles,Barry Allard and Georgina Heath won 18-17;Lesley Allard, Ric Newson, Trevor Wearn and Ted Brown lost 24-14
Camberley will now play Kingsclere in the Final whilst Oakley play Old Basing in the 3rd/4th place play off. These games are understood to be due to be played on April 9th
2nd March 2011 - SO NEAR AND YET SO FAR
Georgina Heath and Claire Spreadbury were today at Melton Mowbray involved in a titanic battle in the Last 16s Of the Ladies National Indoor Pairs. Playing against Tye Green the girls dropped a three on the first end but after 5 ends they trailed by only one shot 6-5 and with both players having good games their supporters were confident they would do themselves justice. By 10 ends the scores were tied at 8-8. At this stage Georgina was easily out bowling her opposite number and Claire too was more than holding her own though the problem was that Lady Luck seemed to be with the Tye Green Skip. Tye Green then moved into a 3 shot lead but again Georgina and Claire rallied and at 15 ends the scores were tied at 12-12. The next end started well for Tye Green with their lead placing a bowl a few inches in front of the jack and another the same distance behind but Claire was by now in fine form removing the front bowl with a running wood and then drawing the shot to take a one shot lead.The 17th end saw Tye Green score one shot and then on the 18th some inspired play saw Georgina and Claire pick up a four. Next end however Lady Luck and some good bowling from the opposing skip conspired to reverse the situation. Down 1 shot at the turnover the Tye Green skip produced some cracking bowls as did Claire but the difference was that although Claire's were equally accurate Dame Fortune was not with her. So with 2 ends to play the scores were yet again tied but when Tye Green scored a two on the 20th end things looked bleak. With 2 bowls left to play on the last end and the girls holding only one things looked even bleaker but an injudicious last bowl from Tye Green gave away a shot and with Claire, rightly, electing not to play her last bowl the scores were yet again tied at 19-19.
So we came to the extra end and what a nail biter. With the last bowl of the game to be delivered and down in the head but having back bowls on both sides of the green, Claire elected to play a running bowl. She connected with the head and the bowl bounced out to Georgina's side bowl. A great victory? Sadly no. The jack hit Georgina's bowl and bounced back into the middle of the green so they were still one down and eliminated
The spectators from Oakley all felt the girls played superbly and deserved to win The neutrals felt the same and even Tye Green confessed they had the odd rub. It was,however,not to be. Both girls should though be proud of their efforts in losing so narrowly in a game that would have graced the Final.
20th February 2011 - LAST END HEARTBREAK
This morning at Longmeadow Oakley were eliminated by Old Basing from the Moreton Plate in a last end shoot out. The morning had begun so promisingly and at 5 ends Terry Heath's rink was all square and Ric Newson's up by 11 shots. This pattern continued and at half way Oakley led by 12 shots and with Derek Easton and Eric Lamkin on fire the club looked on course for victory. However between 10 and 15 ends Oakley scored only 6 shots whilst conceding 22 and Old Basing by now 32-28 up were in the driving seat. Undeterred Oakley hit back and at 20 ends were back in the lead by 3 shots but on that critical last end scores of 4 and 1 were dropped and Old Basing triumphed by 42 shots to 40. Oakley Scores: Paul Cresswell, Derek Easton, Eric Lamkin and Ric Newson won 22-15, David Clewer, Peter Stewart, Barry Allard and Terry Heath lost 27-18
19th February 2011 - BIRTHDAY BOY
There was a splendid turnout of over 60 members at Loddon Vale last night to celebrate the 90th Birthday of Life Vice President Frank Tuffs. Lured to the club under false pretences by Barry Lee, it was a shock for Frank to find so many friends, as well as his daughters Ros and Kathy, waiting to greet him. However he took matters in his stride as Spencer Kerley, in proposing a Toast to Frank, relayed to members Frank's life story, paying particular attention to his 32 years membership of the Club. Following the formalities most members dined and then towards the end of the evening Frank was invited to cut a splendid Birthday Cake baked by club member Sandy Lee
7th February 2011 - LADIES GO OUT OF WAVERLEY
At West Berks Indoor Bowls Club at Newbury, Oakley Ladies were beaten yesterday morning by Kingsclere. Both rinks made a poor start and after only 4 ends Oakley were 14-6 down. A determined rally. as Oakley become more used to the pace of the green, saw the game all square at 9 ends but by 15 ends Kingsclere had again moved ahead and led by 5. At 17 ends the gap was again reduced to 2 shots but Oakley were unable to improve on this losing eventually by 9.Oakley rinks were Mary Taylor, Nancy Goosey, Ruth Bown and Kay Kerley and Betty Hill, Averil Adams, Georgina Heath and June Harvie
30th January 2011 - OFF TO MELTON
Congratulations to Georgina Heath and Claire Spreadbury. This afternoon at the Dolphin Club in Poole they won by 7 shots in the Inter Area Final of the Ladies Indoor National Pairs and have now reached the National Finals. In the last 16 at Melton Mowbray on 2nd March they will play Tye Green from Essex.
23rd January 2011 - ANOTHER CUSHEON LOSS
Oakley "B" went down to their third successive Cusheon defeat in last night's rearranged game against Camberley and so went out of the competition. Derek Easton's rink got off to a good start leading by 6 shots to 5 at 5 ends though at this stage things did not look promising as Peter Stewart was 10 shots to 0 down. At 10 ends, though, Oakley were still in the game. Derek was level and Peter had pulled back to 7 down. That, however, was as good at it got as the strong Camberley outfit powered to a 42- 20 lead at 15 ends. Even the return to the bank of the Oakley supporters who had been enjoying an excellent Chinese meal in the restaurant did nothing to turn fortune Oakley's way. The final result was a comfortable win for Camberley by 65-26. Oakley scores: Betty Hill, Paula Taylor, Paul Cresswell and Peter Stewart lost 35-9, Ruth Stewart, Derek Hill, David Clewer and Derek Easton lost 30-17
16th January 2011 - SET BACK IN CUSHEON
Oakley "A" went down, last night, to defeat by Old Basing in the round robin section of the Cusheon Trophy at Loddon Vale. With both teams having won their two games to date this match would decide the Group winners and Basing began the stronger taking an early lead but after after 5 ends they led by only 8-7 and when Oakley moved into a 2 shot lead on the next end there were high hopes among the 20 or so Oakley supporters that the team would now motor on. It was not to be. By 10 ends Basing had opened up a lead of 7 shots. With Kay Kerley's rink struggling to contain their opponenents we were at 15 ends 35-21 down and although some inroads were made into the deficit Oakley never looked like turning the game round and Old Basing emerged deserved winners. Scores; June Harvie, Trevor Wearn ,Ric Newson and Ted Brown lost 18-19, Georgina Heath, Gladys Fowles, Terry Heath and Kay Kerley lost 16-26. Although a disappointing defeat it was not a mortal blow to hopes of winning the trophy as the team finished runners up in their group and progress to the semi final.
The scheduled Oakley "B" game against Camberley was postponed as "Camberley were unable to field a team". The match has been re arranged for next Saturday 22nd January.
9th Januauary 2011 - BIG FINISH IN MORETON PLATE
Playing this morning at Longmeadow in the Moreton Plate, Oakley found themselves trailing to Hants Police at 5 ends by 10 shots to 7 and at 10 ends by 18-16. The position was no better at 15 ends as Oakley were losing 28-26 with Trevor Wearn's rink down by 6 shots and Ted Brown's up by 4. Then Oakley hit a purple patch and over the remaining ends Trevor's rink conceded only 1 shot and scored 8 whilst Ted's rink racked up 16 shots without reply to record a 50 shots to 29 victory. Scores; Dave Clewer, Paul Cresswell, Derek Easton and Trevor Wearn won 17-16. Ric Newson, John Wilson, Eric Lamkin and Ted Brown won 33-13. In the next round on 20th February Oakley play Old Basing.
9th January 2011 - GIRLS WIN INDOOR AREA FINAL
Congratulations to Georgina Heath and Claire Spreadbury, who yesterday evening at Loddon Vale played magnificent bowls to defeat the strong Bournemouth pairing of Julie Hudson and Val Mansell by 21 -11 to win the Area Final of the National Indoor Pairs. They now go on to play the Inter Area final on a neutral green after which, if successful they will compete at the National Finals. A good contingent of Oakley members turned up to watch what was a high quality game
11th December 2010 - ALMOST A WHITEHILL WIPE OUT
This mornings game against Thatcham "A" in the Clark Whitehill Trophy at West Berks IBC
was expected to be difficult. The Oakley team was devoid of most of the clubs regular indoor players and Thatcham's side was full of experience. Nonetheless the size of the Oakley defeat was disappointing. The rink skipped by Trevor Wearn was never in the hunt and whilst Spencer Kerley's rink stayed in contention, thanks to an inspired performance by Peter Stewart, it was clear from an early stage that Oakley were in for a hammering and so it proved. Acting Captain Trevor conceded defeat at 15/16 ends. Scores; John Green, Paul Cresswell, Colin Carrier and Trevor Wearn lost 1-38, Dominic Flannigan, Sean Lassman, Peter Stewart and Spencer Kerley lost 10 -15. Still there is always the Plate competition in February!!
6th December 2010 - MORETON MAULING
Oakley Men suffered a heavy defeat, yesterday morning in the Moreton Cup at Longmeadow when the team, containing several players who play infrequently indoors, were outplayed by Three Mile Cross from Reading. With neither rink showing their best form Oakley lost 18-47. Scores: Sean Lassman, John Wilson, Eric Lamkin and Ted Brown lost 9-22, Peter Stewart, Paul Cresswell, Colin Carrier and Trevor Wearn lost 9-25. Oakley will now play in the Plate competition on 9th January
5th December 2010 - A LOSS AND A WIN IN CUSHEON
Last evening at Loddon Vale there was again mixed success for Oakley in the Cusheon Trophy. Oakley "B" began promisingly against a strong Basingstoke Town "A" side and at 5 ends trailed by
only 2 shots. Town then took command and moved into a 13 shot lead but between 10 and 15 ends a strong Oakley rally saw the deficit reduced to just 8 shots .Success was however to elude Oakley as over the closing stages the Town piled on the pressure, eventually winning by 23 shots. Scores: Ruth Stewart, Paul Cresswell, Derek Easton and David Clewer lost 21-25, Mavis Titheradge ,Frank Tuffs, Paula Taylor and Peter Stewart lost 13-32
For the "A" team it was a more successful evening. Playing against Yateley they were always in command, leading by 8 shots at 5 ends and by 20 at 10 and even though Kay Kerley's rink were struggling to contain spirited opponents the overall result was never in doubt with Oakley emerging triumphant by 51 shots to 24. Scores: Dominic Flannigan, Gladys Fowles, Terry Heath and Kay Kerley won 20-17, Georgina Heath, June Harvie, Claire Spreadbury and Ted Brown won 31-7. With two big wins under their belt Oakley "A" are guaranteed a place in the semi finals, no matter the result of their third game to be played on Jan 15th against Old Basing.
6th November 2010 - MIXED FORTUNES IN CUSHEON
Tonight at Loddon Vale there were mixed fortunes for Oakley in the Cusheon Trophy. For the first time in some years the club decided to field two teams in this competition which was originally set up to give outdoor clubs the chance to play each other competitively indoors. Oakley "B" found themselves drawn against a strong Kingsclere team and were well beaten by 61 shots to 16. Scores: Betty Hill, Frank Tuffs, Dave Clewer and Peter Stewart lost 11-33, Ruth Stewart, Derek Hill, Derek Easton and John Wilson lost 5-28 .It was, however a very different evening for the "A " team, which playing against the "B" team from Basingstoke Town, cruised to a comfortable victory.99-12. Scores: Dominic Flannigan, Gladys Fowles, Terry Heath and Kay Kerley won 38-9, Ric Newson, Georgina Heath, Colin Taylor and Ted Brown won 61-3
As this is initially a league competition both teams play again on Saturday 4th December
6th September 2010 - SUCCESSFUL CLUB TOUR
On Tuesday last 46 members returned to Oakley tired but happy after an enjoyable tour, led by President Rita Meakin, to Torbay.
Most of the party travelled down by coach on Friday and were soon ensconsed in the Toorak Hotel, the "upmarket" hotel which is part of the TLH Leisure Resort and members were soon using the resort's many facilities. On Saturday we played against the Paignton And Paignton Torbay clubs and were beaten in both games ,albeit narrowly in one. Sunday saw the club take on Torquay BC where we were well beaten but the team playing at Torquay Victoria eaked out a victory. Monday began with the great tennis challenge between Ruth Bown and June Harvie, an official umpire, Club Past Presidents acting as ball boys and an enthusiastic crowd. Honours were even though sadly this was not the case in the afternoon where over 11 rinks we lost narrowly to Torbay Country Club at their splendid facilities. Monday evening saw the usual end of tour festivities and on Tuesday we made our way home playing at Illminster, where we lost and at Chard where we won by one shot overall.
As usual a good number of fund raising activities took place and President Rita was pleased to announce that these activities raised in excess of £500 to be divided equally between her chosen charity and the club. The tour trophy for the most successful player was won by Barry Lee whilst the coveted trophy for the worst behaved tourist was lifted by the President's husband Arthur.
All the tourists would wish to thank the President for all her work in arranging the tour and also those other members who assisted in so many ways.
5th September 2010 - CLUB FINALS
Yesterday on a lovely late summer's afternoon the Club Finals were played at Malshanger. Some excellent bowling was watched by a good size group of members during both the morning and afternoon play and thanks are due to all who helped with the day.
In the morning session Ric Newson playing in the Men's Singles built up a comfortable lead of 15 -8 over Colin Carrier before Colin fought back and, with Ric stuck for a long time on 20, it looked as if he might be denied his first Singles title. Eventually however Ric obtained the necessary shot to emerge victorious by 21-16. The Ladies Final was more clear cut as Carolyn Ford, who had come through a very difficult half of the draw struggled to hold an in form Mary Taylor. Although 18-5 down Carolyn was playing well but on the day Mary was on song and emerged triumphant by 21-11. The Men's Acorn singles saw the biggest turn round of the day. John Lassman surged into a 10-1 only for son Sean to rally and run out the winner by 21-13 .Half an hour after his men's victory Ric Newson was again on the green attempting to lift the 2 wood title. This game was close for a long time with Ric and Terry Heath level at both 6 and 10 ends but Terry then took charge and won 17-9.
The afternoon saw Terry and Ric meet again in the Open Singles .Ric began well taking a 9-4 lead but Terry bowling to a shorter length then scored 11 without reply. Lengthening the jack Ric came back to 14-15 but Terry was not to be denied and made up for his disappointment at losing last years final by winning 21-17. The Ladies Acorn final was another close encounter with Christine Williams having, throughout the game, a very narrow lead over June Harvie. After 21 close fought ends Christine led 17-13 and shortly afterwards she closed out the game. The final game - the Mixed Pairs- saw Pat Goodall and Martin Smith take on the holders and many times winners Mary and Colin Taylor. For a while a shock looked on the cards as the"underdogs" led 7 -4 but experience told and the holders triumphed 24-9.
22nd August 2010 - WHITCHURCH NOVICE SINGLES FINAL
Commiserations to Sean Lassman who, for the second successive year, has been defeated in the Whitchurch League Novice Singles Final. After 27 ends the scores were tied at 19-19 and Sean held 3 shots for game with his opponent having one bowl left. Sadly for Sean that last bowl wicked off a short bowl and Sean lost 21-19.
15th August 2010 GIRLS GO OUT
Georgina and Claire took part in an exciting game today at Leamington in the National Quarter Final of the Under 25 Pairs. In a match where throughout the game neither team held a lead of more than 2 shots Oakley went into the last end 1 shot up and were holding three until the Hertfordshire skips last bowl moved the jack to set up a 2 shot win
14th August 2010 CHAMPION TERRYCongratulations to Terry Heath who this morning at Old Basing won the Whitchurch League Singles by 21-16
14th August 2010 GOOD START AT LEAMINGTON
Success for Hampshire today at Leamington as the Oakley pair of Georgina Heath and Claire Spreadbury beat Bedfordshire 15 - 10 and then Hertfordshire 19 - 10 to reach the quarter-final of the Under 25 Championship which will be played tomorrow morning.
11th August 2010 SHAUN REACHES WHITCHURCH NOVICE FINAL
Congratulations to Shaun Lassman who this week gave Oakley a hat trick of Whitchurch competition finalists by qualifying for the Whitchurch Novice Singles Final
9th August 2010 - AMY ROSE TEAM WIN ONE LOSE ONE
On Friday at Leamington, Georgina Heath was a member in the Hampshire Under 31s team that defeated Wiltshire in the first game in the Amy Rose Trophy. Hampshire were however much less successful on the Saturday morning. After a promising start which saw them leading by 2 at halfway they fell away in he second half and were eventually well beaten
4th August 2010 - GEORGINA LOSES IN THRILLER
At Leamington this morning Georgina Heath, playing her first game for nearly 6 weeks, had a calamitous start in her National Under 25 Singles dropping fours on the first two ends to her opponent from Huntingdonshire. However she gradually began to find line and length but was unable to make any dent in the score as her opponent moved out to a 18 -7 advantage. For most players this would have been a huge deficit but Georgina is made of stern stuff and raising her game still more she entered what was to be the last end 20 19 down. Her supporters had hopes of a great victory as Georgina placed her first 2 bowls within inches. A slightly fortuitous rub by her opponent then altered the head slightly and with the remaining bowls not changing anything the Umpire had to be called onto the green to determine shot Sadly the measure did not go Georgina's way but, despite her defeat, she impressed all the spectators with her skill and determination
3rd August 2010 - WHITCHURCH LEAGUE FINALS
Congratulations to Ric Newson and Terry Heath who emerged triumphant from their all Oakley semi final against Colin and Olive Carrier to reach the final of the Whitchurch Pairs for the third successive year. Good luck too to Shaun Lassman who will shortly play the Novice Singles semi final
30th July 2010 - WHITCHURCH LEAGUE FINALISTS
Congratulations to Terry Heath who has qualified for the Final of the Whitchurch League Singles where he may meet Barry Allard if the latter is successful in the other semi final. Oakley are also guaranteed a finalist in the Whitchurch League Pairs as Terry and Ric Newson, the current holders, meet Colin and Olive Carrier tomorrow in the semis
27th JULY 2010 - BARRY LEE GETS COUNTY BADGE
Congratulations to Barry Lee, who today at Farnham become the third Oakley player this season to be presented with his County Blazer Badge by President Michael Young. Playing against Surrey Barry was on a losing rink but so too were all the Hampshire players as the County crashed to a massive defeat which perhaps was some scant consolation for Surrey who two weeks ago lost to Hampshire in The Middleton Cup.
22nd July 2010 - GAZETTE WIPE OUT
Oakley Ladies Hopes of lifting the NHWBA Gazette Cup, for the third successive year, were cruelly dashed this evening at Hook as the home side comprehensively outplayed Oakley winning by 59 shots to 30. With Oakley fielding the three triples who had reached the Area semi finals of the county triples the match was expected to be close but, Betty Hill, Carolyn Ford and Nancy Goosey lost 21-12, Mary Taylor, Ruth Bown and Kay Kerley lost 21-12 and Janie Vickers, Rita Meakin and Olive Carrier lost 17-9
16th July 2010 - TRIPLE SO CLOSE
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This morning at Banister Park, Oakley's Triple of Betty Hill, Carolyn Ford and Nancy Goosey took on the Atherley's Ella Dibble, Jean Terrell and Chris Doig in the Quarter Final of the County Triples. In what was to be a very low scoring affair, Atherley took command in the early stages and by 5 ends had a narrow 6-2 advantage although they failed to increase this lead over the next 5 ends and indeed by 12 ends Oakley were back level at 9-9. Two singles and a double saw Atherley again move into a 4 shot lead at 15 ends and although Oakley won the remaining three ends they were restricted on each occasion to a single shot. Atherley, therefore, emerged triumphant by 13-12 in a game characterised by the fact that, of the eighteen ends, eleven were decided by one shot and all the others by two shots .It was disappointing for another Oakley team to lose by only one shot in the County Finals but all our representatives at Banister (and we had more than any other club in the Area) have done the club proud by coming through a competitive Area to reach such an advanced stage of the competitions. Oakley's hopes of success at the Nationals now depend on our juniors Georgina and Claire who in August will represent Hampshire in the Under 25 Singles and Pairs
16th July 2010 - CALAMITY AT COVE
Any hopes Oakley had of a good run in the County Club Championship evaporated at Cove yesterday evening as the strength in depth of the home side became more evident as the evening wore on. At 5 ends Oakley were down on three rinks although Ted Brown's rink's 10-1 lead meant we were trailing by only 12 shots. Through the next five ends the difference was reduced to 8 and at 13 ends with Oakley only 2 down there were glimmers of hope that there might be an upset. That hope soon disappeared as by 15 ends Cove had managed to move out to a 10 shot lead which by the end they had ruthlessly extended to 23 shots. Oakley scores: David Clewer, John Wilson, Barry Lee and John Ford lost 27-13, Chris Heath, Paul Cresswell, Ric Newson and Trevor Wearn lost 30-7, Sean Lassman, Derek Easton, John Lassman and Ted Brown won 25-16, Martin Smith, John Green, Colin Taylor and Spencer Kerley won 19-14
14th July 2010 - MORE WOE AT BANISTER
The start of play in todays quarter finals of the County Pairs was delayed because of heavy rain but once the players were able to get on the green our pair of Nancy Goosey and Janie Vickers began brightly and initally the game was close. Gradually however their opponents from Waterside moved away and eventually Oakley were beaten by 11 shots
14th July 2010 - CONGRATULATIONS ON BEING AWARDED COUNTY BADGES
At Illminster on Tuesday Terry Heath played in a winning rink as Hampshire defeated Somerset by 3 shots in an inter county match and after the game he was presented with his County Blazer badge by President Michael Young. The following day at Ryde Marina Trevor Wearn was less successful as Hampshire slumped to a 27 shot defeat by the Isle of Wight but for Trevor too it was his fourth game for the County and he also received his badge from the President. Congratulations to both players
13th July 2010 - JOHNS DISASTER
Any hopes that Mary Taylor and Kay Kerley had of it being third time lucky in their quest to reach Leamington in 2010 were soon dispelled at Banister Park this afternoon as Hampshire crashed out of the Johns Trophy to Sussex. Altough the rink skipped by Allyson Flint and with Mary at 2 had Hampshire's only good win, Kay was in early trouble being 18-0 down after only 7 ends, as a rink with 3 players who had performed so well the previous day failed totally to master the heavier conditions and eventually lost comprehensively by 32-8. Final Score Sussex 132 Hampshire 106
12th July 2010 - NO VISIT IN FOURS EITHER
This morning at Banister Park, Mary Taylor, Carolyn Ford, Ruth Bown had a comfortable passage into the semi final of the County Fours taking an early lead against Lymington and by 11 ends they were 9 shots up, a lead which they held to the end of the game. Their afternoon semi final opponents were a much tougher nut. With Johns Trophy players Jean Arnaud and Ann Pearce at lead and 2 (the position they occupy in Kay's Johns rink) another Johns player Margaret Darkin at 3 and the redoubtable 3 times England singles winner Wendy Line at skip, Atherley started as favourites. The early exchanges were close and at 8 ends the scores were tied only for Atherley to move out to a 13-7 lead at 13 ends. By 16 ends, Oakley, in what was a high class contest, had tied the scores at 13-13 and as the final end commenced Oakley had moved into a 2 shot lead. By now hopes were high but somehow Atherley fashioned a 2 shot position and with both skips having one bowl remaining Kay with her last bowl was narrow and pushed in another Atherley bowl so losing an enthralling game by 1 shot. For most supporters and indeed some of the Atherley support Oakley were the better team but in bowls the best team does not always win on the day. Mary and Kay now have to lift themselves for tomorrows Johns Trophy match and for Oakley let us hope our Pair on Wednesday and our Triple on Friday can go one better and reach Leamington
12th July 2010 - NO REPEAT VIST TO LEAMINGTON
Following their heroics last year in finishing runners up in the National 55s and Over Pairs there were high hopes that Mary Taylor and Kay Kerley could reach Leamington in this event for the second successive year. Sadly however these hopes wer not fulfilled as last night in the County Final (only one team qualiies in this event ) they were outgunned by a Cowplain pair skipped by Pam Lambshead.
10th July 2010 - HANTS AND BERKS HEARTACHE
It was a disappointing morning for Oakley playing in the semi finals of The Hants and Berks Cup on a bone hard, dry and dusty green at Alton Social. Both the Oakley and Hook teams found the quick game with its unreliable runs difficult to handle but play was of a high standard as both teams struggled for control. In the early stages Hook had a slender lead with their two winning rinks being almost covered by the rink of Spencer Kerley but as the game progressed the rinks of Colin Taylor and John Ford came back strongly and with only two ends to play Oakley had a 5 shot lead. With Colin's rink finished we were only 1 shot down on Spencer's rink's last end but the final bowl from the Hook skip flipped the jack sideways for a count of 3 leaving John's rink needing to hold their opponents to 1 shot for the win or 2 for the draw which would have meant an extra end. Sadly a 3 was dropped and Oakley exited the competition. Oakley scores; Paul Cresswell, Sean Lassman. Barry Allard and Colin Taylor lost by 3, Ric Newson, Eric Lamkin,Barry Lee and John Ford lost by 5, Martin Smith, John Wilson, Trevor Wearn and Spencer Kerley won by 7
8th July 2010 - MENS COUNTY CLUB
At Malshanger this evening Oakley Men took on Pyestock in the County Club Championship played over 4 rinks.The early stages saw Oakley establish a good lead but by 5 ends we led by just 5 shots and when Spencer Kerley's rink dropped a four and a five things did not look good. Fortunately however Ted Brown's rink was covering these losses and at 10 ends Oakley were still in front. A determined push through the next 5 ends saw Oakley move out to a a 26 shot lead and eventually Pyestock conceded the game when Oakley were leading 85-62. Oakley scores: Dominic Flannigan, Sean Lassman, Eric Lamkin and Ted Brown won 30-9, Ric Newson ,Barry Lee, John Wilson and John Ford won 22-11, Chris Heath, Paul Cresswell, Barry Allard and Trevor Wearn lost 24-15, Martin Smith, John Lassman, Colin Taylor and Spencer Kerley drew 18-18
In the next round Oakley are away to Cove
7th July 2010 - AREA FINAL HAT TRICK
Today at Alton Socia,l Oakley Ladies achieved their third success in this year's Area Finals when Nancy Goosey and Janie Vickers qualified for the County Finals in the Pairs. In the afternoon session our pair took revenge on Hook's Kath Woodgate who had put out two Oakley Pairs in earlier rounds by coming back from a substantial deficit to win 18-13. The evening was always going to be difficult as opponents Alton Social were playing on their own green which, given its size and the fact that they only ever play one way, was a significant advantage and at 5 ends Oakley trailed by 5-4, at 10 ends by 9-8 and at 15 ends by 13-11. Oakley pulled level 15-15 at 18 ends and took a narrow 2 shot lead into the 21st and final end. It was a tense few minutes but, despite opposing skip Shelia Goodwin's efforts, Oakley scrambled the shot to win 18-15 and ensure 7 Oakley Ladies will be competing in next weeks County Last Eights
The other qualifiers were Alton Social ( Margaret Holden) who beat Hook.
6th July 2010 - MORE OAKLEY LADIES REACH COUNTY FINALS
With three triples in the Northern Division's Area Finals Oakley were hopeful that at least one of the triples would today qualify to join our Fours in the County Last 8s to be held at Banister Park. It was always going to be a difficult task for Janie Vickers, Rita Meakin and Olive Carrier against the Cove Triple skipped by Allyson Flint and Cove emerged triumphant. Mary Taylor, Ruth Bown and Kay Kerley had a horrendous start against Kingsclere and were at half way trailing by 12 shots against the Kingsclere team of Pauline Tilley, Joan Walker and Hannah Burden (who have qualified in the Fours) and although they reduced the deficit to 4 shots with 2 ends to play they too came second. Meantime Betty Hill, Carolyn Ford and Nancy Goosey were beating the triple of Freda Green of Pyestock. The Area final saw Nancy's rink playing the Kingsclere team, that had beaten Kay's triple, and, after trailing by 6 shots to 4, at 5 ends Oakley moved out to a 17 -8 lead at 10 ends and eventually emerged victorious by 23 to 14. Congratulations to all three but it will have been a special night for Betty as this is the first time she has qualified for the County Finals
The other qualifiers are Hook who beat Cove
3rd July 2010 - GOOD WIN AT COVE
At Cove this evening Mary Taylor and Kay Kerley took on the Cove pair of Irene Galpin and Allyson Flint in the County semi final of the National 55s and Over Pairs and after 5 ends they held a narrow one shot lead. By 10 ends this lead had increased to 10 shots, an advantage Oakley maintained until the the 14th end, at which point the Cove pair rallied strongly and by 19 ends Cove had reduced the deficit to only 6 shots. A two on the 20th end was, however, enough to see Oakley through to the Final and should they be successful in that game they will represent Hampshire at Leamington for the second successive year
2nd July 2010 - OAKLEY LADIES RINK REACHES COUNTY FINALS
After a barren 2009, Oakley Ladies today reached the County Finals of the Hampshire Rinks. Playing on a very difficult green at Whitchurch, the Oakley rink of Mary Taylor, Carolyn Ford, Ruth Bown and Kay Kerley had a relatively easy passage into the Area Final, after playing Hook, but then faced a potential banana skin against Fleet Social, skipped by Margaret Hankin, who had beaten the star studded Cove Rink skipped by Johns Trophy star Allyson Flint .Throughout the game the score was always close but eventually Oakley emerged triumpant by 5 shots and so go on to to represent the North at the County Finals. They will be joined at Southampton by Kingsclere who caused a big upset by defeating Alton Social's Johns stars Margaret Holden and Brenda Plumpton
In the next few days Oakley representatives will also be trying to qualify in the Triples, where we have 3 teams in the Last Eights and in the Pairs where Nancy Goosey and Janie Vickers are still going. We wish them all good luck
30th June 2010 - MEN REACH SEMI FINAL OF HANTS AND BERKS CUP
Yesterday evening Oakley Men took on Marnell in the Quarter Final of the Hants and Berks Cup. Oakley initially found it difficult to come to terms with a heavy green. Ted Brown's rink was in trouble from the start and at half way Oakley were well down and our prospects did not look good.
The team however kept plugging away and with Ted's rink pulling back some of their large deficit and John Ford pulling well away from Geoff Riddy we went into the closing ends in front and managed to hold on for a 4 shot overall win. Oakley scores; Dominic Flannigan, Sean Lassman, Colin Taylor and Ted Brown lost 16-28, Barry Allard, Paul Cresswell, Terry Heath and Trevor Wearn won 18-16, Ric Newson, Eric Lamkin, Barry Lee and John Ford won 25-11
In the semi final Oakley will play Hook at Alton Social on 10th July
29th June 2010 - HAMPSHIRE LADIES GREAT WIN
Today in the Johns Trophy, at Worthing Pavilion, Hampshire produced a great performance to overturn the star studded Kent team by 10 shots to reach the Quarter Finals of the Johns Trophy. Our two Oakley players Mary Taylor and Kay Kerley must have wondered who they had upset as Mary, playing 2 to Allyson Flint was drawn against England Skip Sandy Hazell and Kay found herself skipping against the 2008 World Pairs Runner Up Wendy King who had Sian Gordon, England's 2010 Commonwealth Games skip as her number 3. Both lost narrowly but their performance in holding illustrious opponents meant that overall Hampshire emerged triumphant. Hampshire now play Sussex for a place in the semi finals at Royal Leamington Spa
21st June 2010 - CLUB FOURS
The Club Drawn Fours were held in good weather on Saturday and in the semi finals Carolyn Ford, George Hurst, Coral Wearn and Ruth Bown were beaten by Frank Tuffs, Sandra Lee, Sean Lassman and John Wilson with the other game resulting in a win for Lesley Allard, Irene Worsfold, Gladys Fowles and John Ford against Ric Newson, Christine Williams, Barry Lee and John Ramshaw. The final itself was a close fought encounter but eventually John Wilson's rink emerged triumphant by 10 shots to 8 against John Ford's.
20th June 2010 - HEARTBREAK HAT TRICK
Oakley's hopes of picking up National And County team trophies nose dived in the space of three days as the club experienced defeat in three competitions.. On Thursday, at Kingsclere, the Ladies played the Thornbery Trophy and at the end of the normal 21 ends the scores were tied with Mary Taylor, Carolyn Ford, Ruth Bowm and Kay Kerley's 5 shot defeat being offset by a 5 shot win for Janie Vickers, Coral Wearn, Rita Meakin and Claire Spreadbury. Sadly however the extra end was lost and Oakley bowed out early from the competition. Then on Sunday morning Oakley Men took on a strong Fareham team in the National Two Rink Competition. Oakley were forced to make four changes from the side that played in the previous round and with positional changes as well we were never in the game as Fareham emerged comfortable winners by 43 shots to 19 .Oakley Ladies did however emerge with credit from their defeat by Cove in the County Top Club Competition. As when we met the same team in the National competition Oakley were forced to play without some experienced players but as before their replacements shone and we lost by 2.5 to 1.5 disciplines. Oakley scores: Mary Taylor lost 21-17, June Harvie and Coral Wearn drew 17-17, Janie Vickers, Rita Meakin and Olive Carrier lost 22-10, Betty Hill, Christine Williams, Carolyn Ford and Ruth Bown won 19-16
15th June 2010 - COUNTY LADIES WIN IN JOHNS
At Pyestock this afternoon, Mary Taylor and Kay Kerley both played for Hampshire as the County Ladies, followed up their win over Berkshire by storming to victory over Middlesex, winning on all six rinks. Hampshire now play the winners of Kent and Surrey
15th June 2010 - STRONG OAKLEY REPRESENTATION IN AREA LAST EIGHTS
With the Northern Area competitions moving towards the closing stages Oakley still has players going in a number of events. Already through to the Area Last Eights are: Mens Singles - Colin Taylor; Mens Fours - Terry Heath, Dominic Flannigan, Colin Taylor and Ted Brown; Ladies Triples - Betty Hill, Carolyn Ford and Nancy Goosey and Janie Vickers, Rita Meakin and Olive Carrier and Mary Taylor, Ruth Bown and Kay Kerley; Ladies Fours - Mary Taylor, Carolyn Ford, Ruth Bown and Kay Kerley. We wish them all well and hope they reach the County Finals at Southampton.
14th June 2010 - CHARITY BOOST FOR GRANFERS
The annual game against the Berkshire Granfers was played yesterday at Malshanger and resulted in a victory for the visitors. More importantly, however four members played for the first time in a club game. The afternoon raised a splendid £275 towards the Granfers charities
13th June 2010 - SECOND WIN IN COUNTY TOP CLUB
An Oakley team, showing three changes from the previous round, travelled yesterday morning to Old Basing to take on their Ladies and in the early stages with Mary Taylor 8-1 down in the Singles and with both the Triples and Fours losing things did not look promising. Mary however then scored 14 shots in 6 ends and with Georgina Heath and Claire Spreadbury well in front in the Pairs Oakley gradually took control and eventually won by 3 disciplines to 1. Oakley scores; Mary Taylor won 21-13, Georgina Heath and Claire Spreadbury won 29-9, Vera Rhodes, Janie Vickers and Olive Carrier lost 19-13, Betty Hill, Gladys Fowles, Coral Wearn and Ruth Bown won 23-18
6th June 2010- LADIES WIN IN COUNTY TOP CLUB
Yesterday morning a strong Oakley team travelled to Yateley to play their first round game in the County Top Club Competition. After a win there, a week earlier, in the Gazette Cup hopes were high of a repeat performance and so it proved with Oakley winning all four disciplines in a comfortable victory. Oakley scores: Mary Taylor won 21-6, Georgina Heath and Claire Spreadbury won 28-13, Janie Vickers,Rite Meakin and Olive Carrier won 18-16, Coral Wearn, Carolyn Ford, Ruth Bown and Kay Kerley won 22-10. Oakley play Old Basing in the next round.
1st June 2010 - DOUBLE RINK WIN
Oakley men tonight played Pembroke Gardens from Portsmouth in the National Double Rink competition. Conditions at Oakley were not good as the game commenced and in the early stages it seemed the home team would have a comfortable win. At 5 ends Oakley led by 10 shots and despite Spencer Kerley's rink dropping a 5 and a wrong bias from a former President the lead at 10 ends was still 9 shots. At 15 ends Spencer had a narrow 2 shot lead but Ted Browns rink were well in control 19 -8. Gradually however Pembroke Gardens whittled down the lead and with Ted's rink dropping 8 shots over the last four ends we went into the last end with an overall lead of only 3 shots. At this stage however our former President redeemed himself for his earlier wrong bias by placing two bowls on the jack leading to a three for Oakley and progress into the next round where we play either Cowplain or Fareham. Oakley rinks; Colin Carrier, Dominic Flannigan, Colin Taylor and Ted Brown won by 3, Terry Heath, Trevor Wearn, Barry Allard and Spencer Kerley won by 2.
1st June 2010 - HAMPSHIRE LADIES WIN
Both Mary Taylor and Kay Kerley featured in today's Johns Trophy match where Hampshire's top 24 players took on Berkshire. Played at Hawley both our players were on winning rinks as Hampshire emerged triumphant, losing on only one rink, by 118 shots to 101. In the next round Hampshire will play Middlesex
29th May 2010- BRAVE PERFORMANCE ENDS IN NARROW DEFEAT
Oakley Ladies went to Cove this morning to play the National Top Club as massive underdogs but almost pulled off a surprise victory as a side missing 5 regular players and with 4 playing for the first time at this level stunned Cove with their tenacity. Mary Taylor gave Oakley a fine start with a 21-18 win to take the first discipline- the Singles. Cove then drew level as Avril Adams, Lesley Allard and Janie Vickers went down in the Triples to a powerful combination skipped by John's Trophy Skip Allyson Flint. The match remained level as Betty Hill and Coral Wearn battled to a 19-19 draw in the Pairs so with the Rinks still to finish the teams were tied on 1.5 points each and a win for either rink would ensure their team a passage into the next round. Sadly for Oakley our rink of Vera Rhodes, Nancy Goosey, Ruth Bown and Kay Kerley dropped a six on the penultimate end and ultimately lost by 26 shots to 23. Cove therefore went through by 2.5 points to 1.5 points. Speaking after the game Captain Ruth said she was disappointed at the result but enormously proud of the spirit shown by the team and grateful to all those who came into the team for the first time and had played so well.
27th May 2010-SUCCESSFUL START TO DEFENCE OF GAZETTE CUP
At Yateley this evening Oakley Ladies made a successful start in their efforts to win the NHWBA Gazette Cup, a trophy that the Club won in both 2008 and 2009, by winning 52 shots to 43. Oakley scores: Coral Wearn, Rita Meakin and Claire Spreadbury won 15-9, Carolyn Ford, Janie Vickers and Olive Carrier lost 13-24, Mary Taylor, Ruth Bown and Kay Kerley won 24-10
26th May 2010 - TWO SELECTED FOR THE JOHNS
Following the trials to select the Hampshire team for the 2010 Johns Trophy, congratulations go to both Mary Taylor and Kay Kerley who have have been informed that they have been selected to play in the match v Berkshire at Hawley on Tuesday 1st June
23rd May 2010 - DOUBLE RINK WIN
Yesterday morning Oakley eventually emerged triumphant from a very close game at home in the National Double Rink competition. Playing Aldershot Traction "B", Oakley took an early lead at 5 ends of 11-4 but a strong Traco team hit back and by 10 ends the scores were tied at 18-18 with Ted Brown's rink going well and Spencer Kerley's struggling to contain their opponents. This was to be the pattern of the match as Spencer's rink went 11 ends without scoring but Ted's was picking up shots. At 15 ends the scores were still level at 27-27 and at 18 ends Traco led by 32 to 31. THe last three ends, however, saw Oakley do just enough to triumph by 39 to 34. Oakley scores: Ric Newson, Trevor Wearn, Barry Allard and Spencer Kerley lost 25-13, Colin Carrier, Dominic Flannigan, Colin Taylor and Ted Brown won 26-9. In the next round to be played on 1st June Oakley are at home to Pembroke Gardens from Portsmouth
17th May 2010 - TOP CLUB DEFEAT
On a lovely Saturday morning at Cove, Oakley's Top Club team lost 4-1. The team showed 5 changes from the previous round and only one player, John Ford, played in the same discipline as against Odiham. Again Oakley gave themselves a mountain to climb by losing both singles disciplines and, although the rink skipped by Ted Brown won and the pairs of Colin Carrier and Trevor Wearn only lost on the last bowl, the triples were well beaten, thus ensuring an early exit from the competition. In the next round Cove will play Alton Social.
2nd May 2010 - TOP CLUB RESULT
This morning in heavy rain and what felt liked freezing wind Oakley Men played their first competitive game of the season in the National Top Club against Odiham and North Warnborough. Initally things did not go well as Martin Smith, who over the years has been so successful in the 2 wood singles discipline, lost to Ray Rodgers. This was followed by a defeat for Eric Lamkin in the 4 wood singles and although Terry Heath and Ric Newson were winning well in the pairs, the rink of Peter Stewart, Chris Heath, Colin Taylor and Spencer Kerley were 5 shots down and the triple of Colin Carrier, Barry Allard and John Ford were tied at 11-11, having let go an 11 shot lead. Odiham therefore seemed set for a 3.5 -1.5 or 4-0 win. To their credit however Oakley stuck to their task, difficult as it was in the prevailing conditions, and eventually the pair, triple and rink emerged triumphant (and very wet) to give the club a 3-2 victory. Some brave souls then threw their gear into the car and headed off for the club friendly at Devizes, whilst praying the afternoon would be dry.
1st May 2010 - SUCCESSFUL FUND RAISING EVENING
Last night's Race Night held at the Malshanger Club was a great success with almost £1200 being raised towards the new pavilion and this figure takes no account of the bar profit from the evening. Some 90 people attended the event, approximately half of whom were members, and judging by the noise and jollity a great time was had by all. The Fund Raising Sub Committee had done a great deal of preparatory work and we are indebted to those people and organisations who sponsored races and indeed to those members who found the race sponsors. Six races were run with everyone having the opportunity to become an owner (bidding became very competitive for the last race!) and the chance to choose who should be their jockey and dress up in their racing outfits. Throughout the evening Dell Boy Ric and Honest John were extracting money from the punters and at half way an excellent buffet was provided by the Ladies led by our President Rita. Thanks go to all who helped to create a very enjoyable evening.
28th March 2010 - OAKLEY LOSE NAIL BITER
Oakley's hopes of winning the Cusheon Trophy suffered a big blow last night when in the clash of the two previously unbeaten teams they suffered a heartbreaking last end defeat to Camberley. The match was expected to be tight and so it proved. Camberley opened up an early 4 shot lead but by ten ends the scores were tied with Ted Brown's rink covering the rink of Kay Kerley, which struggled throughout the game to hold opponenents who were in fine form. At 15 ends Oakley had opened up a 5 shot lead but Camberley came back to lead by 3 at 18 ends Again Oakley fought back and at 20 ends the scores were tied at 33-33 .Sadly, however, Kay's rink dropped a 5 on the last end and with Ted picking up 1 the match, to the disappointment of our many supporters, was lost by 38-34. Scores: Ric Newson, Dominic Flannigan,Colin Taylor and Ted Brown won 23-10, Mary Taylor, Peter Stewart, Georgina Heath and Kay Kerley lost 11-28.
This result means that Oakley are now guaranteed the runners up spot but for the club to win the trophy we have to rely on Loddon Vale "A" beating Camberley in the final game in three weeks time. A one shot win should do as Oakley's shot difference is vastly superior to Camberley but a betting man would favour a Camberley win.
4th March 2010 - NATIONAL INDOOR SINGLES
Yesterday, at the Kempston Indoor Bowling Club In Bedford, Claire Spreadbury represented Loddon Vale in the National Finals of the Ladies Indoor Singles. In her first game, against Anne Hawkins of Mid Suffolk, the runner up in 2006/7 in the National Champion of Champions, Claire emerged triumphant by 21 shots to 13. Then in the Quarter Final she met Annette Hallett of Dorchester. In a game that began at 8.30 in the evening both players scored heavily on the early ends before Annette moved away to a four shot lead. Claire fought back to level the scores at 13-13 but then her opponent showed just why she is the reigning Champion of Champions by drawing four bowls inside of Claire's nearest bowl (which was no more than 9 inches from the jack) to score a maximum 4. This boosted the Dorset players confidence sky high and from then on, even though Claire continued to play excellent bowls, Annette was in control running out the winner by 21 shots to 14.
28th February 2010 - THE RUN GOES ON
Last night at Loddon Vale an excellent turn out of supporters saw Oakley play their fifth match in this year's competition for the Cusheon Trophy. The team, showing one change from the previous game, started slowly against Loddon Vale "A" and in the early stages were 5 shots adrift but by 5 ends the scores were tied and by 10 ends Oakley had nudged into a narrow, but certainly not comfortable, lead of 5. Between the 10th and 15th ends Oakley increased that lead to 11 shots but just as it looked as if Oakley might be taking complete control Loddon Vale surged back and with only 3 of the 42 ends left to play Oakley's entusiastic supporters were biting their nails as Loddon's recovery reduced the lead to just 3 shots. Fortunately at this stage both Oakley rinks picked up three shots and eventually we ran out winners by 38 shots to 30. Oakley scores:Mary Taylor, Dominic Flannigan, Colin Taylor and Terry Heath won 20-11, Ric Newson, Chris Heath, Georgina Heath and Ted Browm lost 18-19
Oakley have now won 5 games out of 5 in this competition and are guaranteed at least the runners up spot. Camberley are also unbeaten but have played 2 games less. It looks as if the title will be decided on the 27th March when the two teams meet so please make a note of the date and come and support
19th February 2010 - OAKLEY MEMBER BECOMES ENGLAND SELECTOR
Bowls England has announced that Kay Kerley has been appointed as a National Selector. In an election to decide who should be the selector to represent the Southern Group of counties Kay won more votes than her opponent Surrey's Secretary Bobbie Pothecary. Kay will hold this post which involves the selection of all Women's Senior and Junior teams as well as Commonwealth Games and World Bowls Squads, for 4 years.
7th February 2010 - ANOTHER WIN IN CUSHEON
Last night at Loddon Vale,in front of the President and the Oakley supporters, a changed team, with 2 different skips from the last round, took on Andover in our fourth game in this year's Cusheon Trophy. Andover were our nemisis last year but Oakley began strongly with Terry Heath's rink picking up a seven on the first end.and at 5 ends Oakley led by 14 shots to 6. Steady scoring over the next 5 ends saw Oakley move out to a comfortable 18 shot lead at halfway and when Kay Kerley's rink picked up a six on the 13th end the game was almost all over for Andover. Oakley won eventually by 49 shots to 28. Oakley Scores: Mary Taylor, Dominic Flannigan, Colin Taylor and Terry Heath won 22-15, Ric Newson, Chris Heath, Georgina Heath and Kay Kerley won 27-13. Oakley, who have to date used 12 different players in this competition, remain top of the League with 4 wins from 4. Camberley are also unbeaten.
6th February 2010 - SUCCESSFUL CLUB DINNER
A very successful 32nd Annual Dinner, attended by just under 80 members and guests, was held last night at the Test Valley Golf Club. The toast of "The Guests" was ably made by President Rita Meakin, who provided some fascinating history on the history of the Dinner, and County President Michael Young responded. Sadly the HCWBA President Beth Roberts was indisposed but her "stand in" Sir Michael Colman in a witty speech proposed the toast of "The Club" congratulating prizewinners, drawing attention to the tremendous support the Club gives the County Associations and wishing it well with its plans for a new pavilion. During his speech Sir Michael, in recognition of the long connection between the club and his family, presented the Club with a new trophy " The Malshanger Bowl" which has been engraved by Philip Lawson Smith who holds the appointment of Hand Engraver of Glass to Her Majesty The Queen. The Club Vice President Derek Easton responded. Sir Michael then presented the trophies after which our four youngest members presented flowers to the Ladies on the Top Table and this was followed by dancing to our usual Disco. A raffle held during the evening raised £271 for club funds. Thanks go to all who contributed prizes and bought tickets
24th January 2010 - THIRD TIME LUCKY
After last week's disappointments when Oakley Men were well beaten in the Moreton Cup by Littleton and the Ladies succumbed to Tilehurst in the Waverley Trophy the Club was looking to record its first victory of 2010 as we took on Loddon Vale "B" in the Cusheon Trophy at Loddon Vale. With this year's competition being played on a league basis, Oakley went into the game sitting on top of the table, having won comprehensively in both their previous matches, but this game proved to be the hardest yet. Although Oakley were never behind the gap between the teams,during the first 10 ends, was only between 3 and 6 shots and it was not until the 14th end that the lead went into double figures. Even then the Loddon Vale team kept plugging away reducing the deficit at one stage to 8 shots. Eventually, however, Oakley triumphed by 50 shots to 39. Scores: Georgina Heath, Ric Newson, Peter Stewart and Ted Brown won 29-16, Mary Taylor, Gladys Fowles, Terry Heath and Colin Taylor lost 21-23. The next game is on Feb 6th against Andover.
24th January 2010 - PRE SEASON MEETING
At Mondays meeting the usual business was conducted of electing selectors and filling out competition forms ( Mens County entries are up 10% and the highest since 2004) but the main issue was an update on the proposed pavilion project. John Ford was able to report that after taking account of the £12k that had been agreed could be taken from Reserves and promised donations and loans from members we had now identified thay we should be able to find some £50k (half the project cost) to which could be added monies raised from special find raising activities and any further promises still in the pipeline. In the circumstances the Committee had agreed that we now needed to establish what funds could be obtained from Grant Bodies and Derek Easton was leading on this matter and a further report would be made to members once Derek's research had been completed. Funds loaned or donated by members would not be accessed until it was clear the project was feasible and affordable - any funds needed for pump priming the project would be taken from Reserves.
20th December 2009 - MORETON CUP SUCCESS
In the first round of the Moreton Cup at Longmeadow this morning, the Oakley Men's double rink team brushed aside the local challengers, Whitchurch, 47 - 28. Ted Brown with Eric Lamkin, John Wilson and Ric Newson came out comfortable winners 24 - 10 having led from the first end. The other Oakley rink of Trevor Wearn, Barry Allard, Peter Stewart and Dave Huyton started well but struggled with the Whitchurch shorter jacks and were trailing 7 - 14 at 13 ends after gifting their opponents 8 shots in 2 ends. Winning the next end, however, gave them the chance to get back on longer jacks and they took a 7, giving them the confidence to run on to win 23 - 18. Oakley's bid to regain the Cup they won two years ago continues on Sunday 17th January when they take on Littleton.
5th December 2009 - OAKLEY WIN IN CUSHEON
At Loddon Vale this evening Oakley cruised to a comfortable win against local rivals Old Basing in what was the club's second game in the competition. The early stages were closely fought but by around 8 ends Oakley, showing three changes from the previous game, had moved out to a 16 shot lead. This lead fluctuated over the next four ends between 16 and 12 shots but over the latter stages Oakley dominated and eventually won by 62 shots to 22.. Scores: Dominic Flannigan, Gladys Fowles, Terry Heath and Claire Spreadbury beat Vic Girle, Wilf Lacock, Shelia Stone and Mick Cullis 41-10; Georgina Heath, Peter Stewart, Kay Kerley and Ted Brown beat Brian Moon, Ron Ellis, Shelia Girle and Maurice Bates 21-12. Oakley will play their next game on 9th January. In other games tonight Camberley beat Basingstoke Town and Andover beat Loddon Vale
29th November 2009 - CLARK WHITEHILL DEFEAT
On Saturday morning at West Berks, Oakley were defeated in the first round of the Clark Whitehill Trophy. Scores were Dominic Flannigan, David Huyton,Ric Newson and Eric Lamkin lost 18-19, Colin Carrier, Frank Tuffs, Barry Lee and Trevor Wearn lost 10-34
24th November 2009 - AGM NEWS
At last night's AGM Rita Meakin was elected as President for 2010 with Derek Easton as her Vice President. Barry Lee became Men's Captain with Ric Newson as Vice. All other officers remain in post but there is one new committee member Terry Heath.
There was one major issue to discuss, namely whether the club should be looking to build a new pavilion on the side of the green opposite the car park. Following a presentation by Messrs Ford, Stewart, Lee and Easton the meeting agreed that a new building is highly desirable and that the committeee should set up a project but should avoid committing any significant monies until there is a better appreciation of the funding that might be available
8th November 2009 - CUSHEON TROPHY
Yesterday evening, at Loddon Vale IBC, Oakley began this year's challenge for the Cusheon Trophy. For 2009/10 the competition is being played in 2 Leagues with each team playing 7 games and then the two league winners meet to decide the champions
Our first game was against local rivals Basingstoke Town and for the early part of the game there was never much in it with Oakley holding the lead by 5/6 shots. At that stage the rink of Ric Newson, Georgina Heath, Kay Kerley and Ted Brown were leading by about 8 shots with Terry Heath, Dominic Flannigan, Claire Spreadbury and Colin Taylor trailling by a couple. At 10 ends however the game changed dramatically as Colin nosed in front and Ted picked up a 7 to ease out to a 15 shot overall lead. From there on the result was never in doubt and Oakley, to the delight of their supporters, eventually ran out 27 shot winners with Ted's rink up by 12 and Colin's by 15
Currently the next game is sheduled for the 5th December
7th September 2009 - CLUB FINALS
Finals Day on Saturday was well supported and saw some excellent bowling. In the morning session Trevor Wearn looked to be well in control in the Men's Singles as he raced to a 13-3 lead against Terry Heath but Terry had other ideas and taking the mat up the green he clawed his way back into the game to emerge triumphant by 21-18. The 2 wood singles between Eric Lamkin and Peter Stewart was less exciting as Eric led throughout to claim a 15-6 victory with 4 ends still to play. Eric's victory means he has now won all three major singles titles in the club. The final game of the morning, the Pairs Final between Carolyn Ford and Barry Lee and Mary and Colin Taylor, was expected to be a tight affair but in the event 10 times champions Mary and Colin were comfortable 28-6 winners..
The afternoon session saw Coral Wearn endeavouring to go one better than Trevor by attempting to win the Ladies Singles against Ruth Bown and as she came back from12-3 down to square the game at 12-12 her first singles title looked possible. Ruth, however, moved up a gear and emerged triumphant by 21-12. The Open Singles saw Terry Heath looking to do the coveted double by adding this title to his Men's crown and against Spencer Kerley he soon stormed into a 10-2 lead. Moving to long jacks Spencer pulled level at 10-10 only for Terry to move away to a 17-11 lead before somehow Spencer sneaked the title with a 21-18 victory. A big come back was also the order of the day in the Acorn Singles where Arthur Meakin established a 16-9 lead against Georgina Heath and looked set for victory. Rather like her father in the morning, Georgina then moved the mat up the green and sadly for Artur he was less successful at this length and Georgina eventually triumphed 21-16 to lift her first individual title outdoors.
3rd Setember 2009 - SUCCESSFUL CLUB TOUR
On Tuesday evening 57 weary but happy tourists returned from a highly successful club tour to Eastbourne, excellently organised by Club President John Ford. Having travelled down by coach on Friday morning the first game was a 6 rink encounter against the Parade BC on the sea front and despite fierce winds and a quick green Oakley managed to eke out a win by 108 shots to 107. Saturday saw 11 rinks play at Gildredge Park.and again, and helped by a big win from Phil Spreadbury's rink, Oakley managed a win, this time by 234 shots to 194.
Sunday was a rest day and most of the party went off on a trip to Sheffield Gardens which was followed by a trip on the Bluebell Railway and much nostalgia about the days of steam. Monday's game was against Eastbourne BC and on the fastest and best green many members had played on this season we went down by 190 shots to 177 in a 10 rink match
Monday evening saw the now traditional end of tour dinner. festivities and disco so next day some tired and some bleary eyed bowlers made their way along the coast to Bognor Regis where after a splendid buffet lunch we took on the combined might of the Bognor Regis and Bognor RAFA Clubs. For much of the game it looked as if a third win would be recorded but the exertions of the weekend took their toll and we fell away losing, in a 10 rink game by 202 shots to 174.
So the tour concluded with 2 games won and 2 lost and the overall scores tied at 693-693. The Tour Trophy for the player with the best results was won by Spencer Kerley whilst the more coveted Black Mark trophy ( for the individual who misbehaved most ) was won for a second time by Ric Newson. Following the Tour President John was pleased to announce that as a result of the Black Marks and other fund raising activities we had raised the wonderful sum of £710 for the Hospice