A COMBINED Green and Hemyock Short Mat Bowls contingent travelled to Torquay for a week’s competition which was a brand new and rewarding experience for them.

After getting settled into their rooms they went to the arena and were surprised at its size, with 12 a total of mats laid out. Practice was allowed before competition started on the Monday.

A total of 32 teams from as far afield as Swansea, Kent and Cornwall took part.

A great time was had by all at the short mat bowls event
A great time was had by all at the short mat bowls event (Submitted)

The competitions comprised of four sections which were singles, pairs, triples and fours.

The party was then split into groups as to who would play in which competition.

From start to finish, they found it hard work meeting some England international players who proved to be too good for the party.

As the week progressed, a few wins came their way but not enough to qualify for the Friday finals day.

The only team to win anything were Joy, Barbra, Doreen, Christen and Mick, who were given the bobby prize for gaining the least amount of points during the week. But they returned home with a bottle of wine each.

It also came as a big surprise when John Stephens was given a certificate for his vocal accompaniment.