Press reports
Reports on matches and other club events are submitted to the Henley Standard every week

19 Sept

On Wednesday afternoon Shiplake played Peppard for the third time this season – the traditional end of season ‘friendly’. Graham Kennedy skipped the highest winning rink. Graham, supported by Sylvia Blackmore, Pat Walker and John Snook scored 36 shots, and conceded just 7. Two other winning rinks plus a draw contributed to a win for Shiplake by 117 shots to 109.
Shiplake scores:
Angie Main, Eric Davis, Janette Macarthur, Bob Beard 15-16
John Chamberlain, Paula Benham, Les Redding, Wendy Cross 19-18
Jill Rumble, Eric Smith, Ray Wheeler, Iain Robinson 15-15
Val Beard, Wendy Buss, David Webb, Francis Benham 8-36
Sonia Stretch, David Buckett, Pat Main, Bill Blackmore 24-17
Sylvia Blackmore, Pat Walker, John Snook, Graham Kennedy 36-7

Who would win the Plomer Cup depended on the result of Shiplake’s game against Caversham on Saturday. Shiplake needed 8 points to clinch the title. Three rinks went ahead from the start, and stayed ahead, with both Roger Worth’s and Jim Bland’s rinks finishing with a shot difference of 17. On two rinks scores were more even at the half way point, but Shiplake rallied in the second half and by the end Shiplake had won on all five rinks – 12 Plomer Cup points and the title to Shiplake.
Shiplake scores:
Francis Benham, Janette Macarthur, Bill Blackmore, Allen Newbury 23-15
Val Beaumont, Max Jacob, Peter Christmas, Roger Worth 25-8
John Chamberlain, Howard West, Wendy Cross, Barry Evans 22-18
Simon Hastings, Mairwen West, Trevor Beaumont, Iain Robinson 24-16
Charlotte Jacob, Phyllis Mansfield, Les Redding, Jim Bland 26-9.

For their last game of the season Shiplake travelled up the M4 to BA Concorde. Played in glorious sunshine it was difficult to believe it was the middle of September and the outdoor season was over. After eight ends only one rink was in front. This rink – David Steel with Charlotte Jacob, Ann Cox and John Snook - handed in the best card, winning by 27 shots to 9. Once the visitors adjusted to the heavy green they scored steadily, and Shiplake went on to win by 15 shots – 85-70.
Shiplake scores:
Sonia Stretch, Jackie Stafford, David Buckett, Pat Main 13-19
Julia Perry, Max Jacob, Pat Steel, Bob Beard 13-17
Angie Main, Eric Davis, Jean Buckett
Wendy Cross 17-13
Charlotte Jacob, Ann Cox, John Snook, David Steel 27-9
Val Beard, Ed Jukes, Peter Cross, Phil Buckett 15-12.

On Monday 17 Shiplake ladies travelled to Oxford for the end of season OWBA game of President versus Vice-president. Ladies from Peppard and Henley also took part which meant that this south east corner of the county was well represented in this event. Shiplake’s Mairwen West is this year’s OWBA vice–president. An enjoyable afternoon finished with a win to Mairwen’s team. Shiplake’s Wendy Cross and Sylvia Blackmore distinguished themselves by being part of the highest winning rinks (one on each side).

Shiplake win the treble! The club has had an excellent season – winning the Plomer Cup, the MUL and ODBL Division 3, and thereby promotion to Division 2.

12 Sept

On Saturday Shiplake held a Fun Day in aid of charity. The two sides ‘Hers’ and ‘His’ were led by captain Wendy Cross and president Howard West. Players wrestled with a different scoring system, involving points rather than shots, and faced fines for such bad behaviour as touching the jack, putting the jack in the ditch, playing with the wrong stickers plus other perceived misdemeanours devised as the game progressed. Iain Robinson, with Pat Walker and Val Beaumont, were the highest winning rink. Records were not kept of who incurred the most fines – but the proceeds of the day amounted to £200 which will be donated to the Thames Valley and Chiltern Air Ambulance.
Scores (‘Her’s first): Jean Webb, Phil Buckett, Wendy Cross 105 Vera Harris, Mick Lovejoy, Barrie Evans 75
Margaret Bullock, Edna Orchard, Francis Benham 90; Paula Benham, Sylvia Blackmore, Howard West 90
Charlotte Jacob, David Webb, Peter Christmas 84; Helen Robinson, Bob Beard, Trevor Beaumont 96
Pat Walker, Val Beaumont, Iain Robinson 111, Val Beard, Pat Main, Phyllis Mansfield 69
Sonia Stretch, David Buckett, Daphne Jacob 78, Mairwen West, Ann Clarke, Les Redding 102
Angie Main, Peter Cross, Bryan Clarke 93; Jean Buckett, Max Jacob, Allen Newbury 87.

Sunday was Shiplake’s Finals Day. The first of the nine finals started at 10:30 and play continued until six in the evening. A substantial number of spectators enjoyed a day of excellent bowling. The weather was glorious.

In the Handicap Ryan Buckett’s steady play saw him inexorably draw ahead to beat Jim Bland by 21 shots to 11.
In the Novices John Chamberlain played Simon Hastings. John won’t be playing in the Novices next year after winning 21-7.
The Married Pairs had Jean and Phil Buckett playing Mairwen and Howard West. The Bucketts built up a comfortable lead, then the Wests rallied and came back strongly but Jean and Phil hung on to win by 22 shots to 14.
In the Mens Singles Barry Lambourne played Les Redding. The men were 7 all at 8 ends then Barry drew ahead to win 21-10.
In the Ladies Singles between Daphne Jacob and Helen Robinson Daphne added the title to her successes this year with a win by 21 shots to 4.
The Drawn Pairs pitted Mairwen West and Ryan Buckett against Jean Buckett and Francis Benham. At 16 ends the scores were level at 14 all, then Mairwen and Ryan went ahead to win 20-14.
In the Senior Citizens Bill Blackmore played John Chamberlain. Bill was ahead from the start and went on to win 16-7.
The Two Wood set Barry Lambourne against Margaret Bullock. A close fought game ended with a win for Barry by 2 sets to 0.
The Plate final was between Daphne Jacob and Bob Beard. Bob was in the lead up to the 11th end, then Daphne scored a 3 and a 4 to go ahead, and she went on to win 21-18.

5 Sept

On Saturday Shiplake held the Drawn Triples, an internal competition played for the Millenium Cup. The 36 bowlers battled in a strong wind through 5 rounds of 5 ends. The results were close, with everyone winning some and losing some, but two clear finalists emerged. The final provided a fitting climax to the day. Some excellent bowling from novice Ed Jukes, the ever reliable Pat Main and on form skip Iain Robinson secured a win against the triple of Margaret Bullock, Sonia Stretch and Les Redding.

On Sunday Shiplake travelled to Blackbird Leys. Iain Robinson continued his winning streak and skipped the highest winning rink. Iain, with Val Beard, Max Jacob and John Snook led from the start and won by 26 shots to the opposition’s 12. Captain Wendy Cross skipped the only other winning rink, and Shiplake lost the match by ten shots, 96-106.
Shiplake scores:
Helen Robinson, Angie Main, Terry Auger, Bob Beard 15-22
Val Beard, Max Jacob, John Snook, Iain Robinson 26-12
John Chamberlain, Wendy Buss, Peter Christmas, Wendy Cross 18-14
Charlotte Jacob, Ann Cox, Peter Cross, Daphne Jacob 18-34
Jackie Stafford, Eric Davis, Peter Higgs, Pat Main 19-24

29 August

On Wednesday Shiplake had a home game against Trenthams. Victories on five of the six rinks, including winning margins of 8 shots on Francis Benham’s and Ryan Buckett’s rinks, ensured a win for Shiplake by 113 shots to 92.
Shiplake scores:
Sonia Stretch, Pat Walker, Peter Higgs, Ryan Buckett 23-15
Phil Buckett, Edna Orchard, John Chamberlain, Francis Benham 20-12
Bob Beard, Max Jacob, Wendy Cross, Graham Kennedy 20-15
Jean Buckett, Paula Benham, Ray Wheeler, Mick Lovejoy 15-21
Sylvia Blackmore, Janette Macarthur, Bill Blackmore 15-13
Val beard, Peter Cross, Howard West, Trevor Beaumont 20-16.

On Thursday Shiplake played Courage Pensioners for the Bonzer Cup. Captain Wendy Cross, with Jean Webb and Phil Buckett, and helped by a 6 on the last end, achieved the best score of the afternoon, 29 shots to 17. Two further wins and a draw ensured that Shiplake retained the Bonzer Cup, winning by 107 shots to 82.
Shiplake scores:
Angie Main, Edna Orchard, Bill Blackmore 23-13
Paula Benham, Eddie Goddard, David Webb 18-18
Jean Webb, Phil Buckett, Wendy Cross 29-17
Sylvia Blackmore, Pat Main, Francis benham 15-18
Val Beard, Ed Jukes, Max Jacob, Bob Beard 22-16

On Saturday Shiplake played their last MUL game – at home to Harwell. Barry Lambourne, supported by Charlotte Jacob and Allen Newbury, were the highest scoring triple, winning by16 shots. Graham Kennedy’s rink was level at 13 ends then the Shiplake triple rallied, scored 11 shots, which included two 5s, and won by 9 shots. 10 MUL points to Shiplake, who regain the title of league champions.
Shiplake scores:
Val Beard, David Steel, Graham Kennedy 21-12
Val Beaumont, Bill Blackmore, Trevor Beaumont 18-17
Peter Christmas, Wendy Cross, Jim Bland, 20-11
Simon Hastings, Les Redding, Daphne Jacob 13-15
Charlotte Jacob, Allen Newbury, Barry Lambourne 26-10.

On Sunday Shiplake travelled across Reading for a 5 rink game against Huntley and Palmer. Len Mitton, aided by a player borrowed from the opposition plus Eric Davis and John Chamberlain, recorded an impressive 15 shot victory. Bill Blackmore’s rink achieved Shiplake’s only other win, and Shiplake narrowly lost the match by 90 shots to 96.
Shiplake scores:
Sonia Stretch, Paula Benham, Peter Cross, Bill Blackmore 18-16
Heather Jones (borrowed from opposition), Eric Davis, John Chamberlain, Len Mitton 28-13
Jean Webb, Jackie Stafford, Terry Auger, Wendy Cross 15-30
Angie Main, Ed Jukes, Janette Macarthur, Pat Main, 15-16
Vera Harris, John Snook, Sylvia Blackmore, Francis Benham 14-21.

On Bank Holiday Monday Shiplake held the annual Ladies v Gentlemen, which was played for the Margaret Evans Cup. Hopes were high at tea time as the ladies were ahead and seemed on track for a rare victory. However, despite good wins on Wendy Cross’ and Janette Macarthur’s rinks, strong finishes on Barry Lambourne’s and Peter Christmas’ rinks ensured a win for the men. This event provided an opportunity for some of Shiplake’s younger members to participate in a friendly but competitive match. Josh Trendall, Katie Bland and Jody Buckett all played well and show great promise for the future.
Shiplake scores (Ladies' names first):
Jill Rumble, Katie Bland, Sonia Stretch, Daphne Jacob 22, John Chamberlain, Josh Trendall, Pat Main, Jim Bland 19
Ann Cox, Sue Reid, Val Beard, Mairwen West 11, Len Mitton, Brian Evans, Barry Lambourne 31
Paula Benham, Christine Phillips, Pat Steel, Janette Macarthur 21, Simon Hastings, Jody Buckett, David Webb, Bob Beard 16
Janet Stockwell, Jean Webb, Wendy Cross 30, Francis Benham, Max Jacob, David Steel 7
Jackie Stafford, Sonia Higgs, Angie Main, Phyllis Mansfield 9, Eric Smith, John Snook, Peter Cross, Peter Christmas 35
Charlotte Jacob, Pat Walker, Helen Robinson, Val Beaumont 15, Jack Hall, Peter Higgs, Iain Robinson, Howard West 24.

22 Aug

On Wednesday Shiplake had a home game against Woodley. Barrie Evans, with Sonia Stretch, Phil Buckett and Peter Higgs, achieved the best score of the evening, with a winning margin of 21 shots. Further wins on the rinks of Trevor Beaumont and of captain Wendy Cross ensured a win for Shiplake by just 3 shots, 97–94.
Shiplake scores:
Janet Stockwell, Paula Benham, Brian Evans, David Steel 10-31
Val Beard, Pat Steel, Janette Macarthur, Ray Wheeler 16-23
Vera Harris, Bob beard, Eddie Goddard, Wendy Cross 20-14
Sonia Stretch, Phil Buckett, Peter Higgs, Barrie Evans 32-11
Jean Buckett, David Buckett, Francis Benham, Trevor Beaumont 19-15.

On Thursday Shiplake were at home against Hanborough for the last ODBL match of this season. Wins on 3 rinks, including a massive 36 shots to 8 victory on Ryan Buckett’s rink, gave Shiplake 5 ODBL points, enough to become Division 3 champions. After just three seasons in the league this is a great achievement and Shiplake men are looking forward to playing in Division 2 next season.
Shiplake scores:
Simon Hastings, Iain Robinson, David Bullock, Jim Bland16-19
Francis Benham, Pat Main, Graham Kennedy, Barry Lambourne 29-17
Darren St John, John Chamberlain, Bill Blackmore, Ryan Buckett 36-8
Peter Christmas, Eddie Goddard, Trevor Beaumont, Allen Newbury 26-16.

On Saturday Shiplake travelled to Hurst for an MUL game. Hurst had beaten Shiplake earlier in the season and Shiplake were eager for revenge. After 9 ends victory for Shiplake looked unlikely – Hurst were ahead on all 5 rinks. Restored by a cup of tea the Shiplake players gradually pulled back. By the end they managed to win narrowly on 3 rinks. With a win on shots by 83 to 79 Shiplake returned home with 8 MUL points.
Shiplake scores:
Val Beaumont, Bill Blackmore, Iain Robinson 14-10
Charlotte Jacob, David Steel, Barry Lambourne 18-17
Val Beard, Peter Christmas, Daphne Jacob 18-15
Sylvia Blackmore, Edna Orchard, Jim Bland 15-16
Simon Hastings, Wendy Cross, Barrie Evans 18-21.

On Sunday Shiplake had a home game against BA Concorde. Francis Benham, with Mairwen West, Eric Davis and Peter Higgs had an excellent win, scoring 30 shots and restricting the opposition to just 6 shots. The games on Howard West’s and Allen Newbury’s rinks followed a similar pattern – both were behind at 15 ends, then rallied to finish ahead. Shiplake won the match by 100 shots to 90.
Shiplake scores:
Angie Main, David Buckett, John Snook, Howard West 26-19
Mairwen West, Eric Davis, Peter Higgs, Francis Benham 30-6
Pat Steel, Max Jacob, Janette Macarthur, Wendy Cross 15-20
Ann Cox, Paula Benham, David Steel, Trevor Beaumont 9-26
Jackie Stafford, Sonia Higgs, Pat Main, Allen Newbury 20-19.

15 Aug

On Tuesday Shiplake hosted a county game. OBA President and Shiplake member David Bullock led an OBA side which included nine Shiplake men against the City and County of Bristol Bowling Association. Oxfordshire won the match.

On Wednesday Shiplake had a home Plomer Cup game against Watlington. Barry Lambourne, with Mairwen West, Pat Main and David Steel, achieved the best result of the evening, with a winning margin of 17 shots. Two other good wins from Ryan Buckett and Graham Kennedy ensured an overall win for Shiplake of 100 shots to 83. 8 MUL points for Shiplake.
Shiplake scores:
Mairwen West, Pat Main, David Steel, Barry Lambourne 25-8
Jean Buckett, Len Mitton, Eddie Goddard, Allen Newbury 14-20
Angie Main, Sonia Stretch, Howard West, Les Redding 12-25
Margaret Bullock, Pat Steel, Wendy Cross, Ryan Buckett 24-17
Phil Buckett, Brian Evans, Phyllis Mansfield, Graham Kennedy 25-13,

On Thursday Shiplake travelled to Woodstock for an ODBL match. Barry Lambourne, with Francis Benham, Iain Robinson and Graham Kennedy, achieved the best score of the evening, with a winning margin of 15 shots. Allen Newbury’s rink was level at 11 ends, then pulled away to win by 9 shots and Barrie Evans’ rink snatched victory on the last end. 5 ODBL points to Shiplake – securing promotion to Division 2.
Shiplake scores:
Peter Christmas, Eddie Goddard, Trevor Beaumont, Allen Newbury 27-18
Darren St John, Pat Main, Bill Blackmore, Ryan Buckett 22-25
Francis Benham, Iain Robinson, Graham Kennedy, Barry Lambourne 28-13
Simon Hastings, Len Mitton, Jim Bland, Barrie Evans 20-18.

On Saturday Shiplake travelled to Oxford to play Rover (Cowley). Some Shiplake players took time to adjust to the very fast green but it didn’t seem to affect Trevor Beaumont with wife Val, Sue Reid and John Chamberlain who led from the start and scored an impressive 34 shots, conceding just 8 to the opposition. Bill Blackmore’s rink finished in front after a close match, whilst David Steel’s rink recovered from a slow start to finish level. The final score was 113 shots to Shiplake and 130 to Rover.
Shiplake scores:
Val Beard, Sonia Stretch, Pat Main, Bill Blackmore 20-18
Helen Robinson, Ed Jukes, Janette Macarthur, David Steel 20-20
Angie Main, Terry Auger, David Webb, Wendy Cross 21-11
Julia Perry, David Buckett, Eddie Goddard, Phyllis Mansfield 9-44
Jean Webb, Pat Steel, Bob Beard, Les Redding 9-29
Val Beaumont, Sue Reid, John Chamberlain, Trevor Beaumont 34-8.

On Sunday Shiplake had the second away game of the weekend, across the river at Wargrave. Roger Worth, with Sonia Stretch, Pat Walker and Bob Beard, recorded the best score of the day with a winning margin of 13. Iain Robinson skipped the only other winning rink for Shiplake. Despite losing on three rinks Shiplake won the match by just one shot – 89 shots to Shiplake, 88 to Wargrave.
Shiplake scores:
Angie Main, Wendy Buss, Peter Higgs, David Steel 17-19
Pat Steel, Eric Davis, Janette Macarthur, Iain Robinson 19-13
Val Beard, David Buckett, Peter Christmas, Wendy Cross 14-23
Helen Robinson, John Snook, Pat Main, Les Redding 15-22
Sonia Stretch, Pat Walker, Bob Beard, Roger Worth 24-11.

On Saturday and Sunday Shiplake hosted the OBA finals. No matches could run concurrently because, for a record second time, Banbury Borough’s Greg Moon had qualified for all four. The Pairs and Singles took place on Saturday and the Triples and Fours on Sunday. Greg Moon triumphed in the Singles, and was on the winning side in the other three competitions.

8 Aug

On Wednesday Shiplake were at home to Peppard for an MUL game. Barry Lambourne, with Charlotte Jacob and Bill Blackmore, handed in the best card of the day showing a win of 29 shots to 10. Three other good wins gave Shiplake a shots win of 100 to 69, and 10 MUL points – consolidating their lead at the top of the league.
Shiplake scores:
Helen Robinson, Wendy Cross, Roger Worth 16-20
Charlotte Jacob, Bill Blackmore, Barry Lambourne 29-10
Val Beard, David Steel, Graham Kennedy 19-13
Val Beaumont, Iain Robinson, Barrie Evans 20-12
Sylvia Blackmore, Daphne Jacob, Allen Newbury 16-14.

On Thursday Shiplake travelled to Chipping Norton for an ODBL match. Ryan Buckett and Barrie Evans skipped their rinks to victory, but wins for Chipping Norton on the other two rinks and an overall loss of just two shots meant Shiplake came home with only 2 league points.
Shiplake scores:
Darren St John, Pat Main, Iain Robinson, Ryan Buckett 24-15
Peter Christmas, Eddie Goddard, Bill Blackmore, Allen Newbury 16-21;Francis Benham, David Bullock, Trevor Beaumont, Graham Kennedy 14-24
Simon Hastings, Len Mitton, Jim Bland, Barrie Evans 23-19.

On Saturday Shiplake entertained Wallingford. Janette Macarthur made a rare appearance as skip and, supported by Val Beard, Peter Higgs and David Webb, recorded an impressive 32-7 victory. Three further wins, including one by a 17 shot margin on Trevor Beaumont’s rink, gave Shiplake a substantial win of 120 shots to 72.
Shiplake scores:
Jean Webb, Ann Cox, Francis Benham, Trevor Beaumont 31-14
Val Beard, Peter Higgs, David Webb, Janette Macarthur 32-7
Jackie Stafford, Ann Clark, Bob Beard, Wendy Cross 19-21
Sonia Stretch, Ed Jukes, Len Mitton, Bryan Clark 18-14
Julia Perry, Paula Benham, Terry Auger, Les Redding 20-16.

On Sunday afternoon Shiplake travelled the few miles down river to Henley for a Plomer Cup game. Shiplake’s only winning rink was that of Graham Kennedy, with Helen Robinson, John Snook and Francis Benham. Shiplake returned home with just 2 Plomer Cup points.
Shiplake scores:
Julia Perry, Sonia Stretch, Bill Blackmore, Iain Robinson 20-21
Helen Robinson, John Snook, Francis Benham, Graham Kennedy 24-10
Val Beard, Jackie Stafford, Pat Main, Howard West 13-25
Sylvia Blackmore, Peter Higgs, Wendy Cross, Daphne Jacob 16-20
Mairwen West, Angie Main, Bob Beard, Allen Newbury 9-36.

On Saturday three Shiplake ladies took part in the OWBA Unbadged Singles at South Oxford. Charlotte Jacob proceeded through the rounds to the final with consummate ease. After a close contest she lost the final but is to be congratulated for her excellent performance.

On Sunday morning Shiplake was the venue for an Under 25s game between Oxfordshire and Kent (won by Kent). The Oxfordshire side included Shiplake member Simon Hastings.

This coming weekend 12-13 August Shiplake are hosting the OBA Finals of the Singles, Pairs, Triples and Fours competitions.

31 July

On Wednesday Shiplake entertained Tilehurst. Shiplake were hoping to avenge the defeat inflicted at Tilehurst just 10 days previously. Graham Kennedy, with Jean Buckett, Eric Davis and captain Wendy Cross achieved the highest winning score with a margin of 21 shots. Two other good wins on Bill Blackmore’s and Roger Worth’s rinks ensured victory for Shiplake by 130 shots to 101.
Shiplake scores:
Sylvia Blackmore, Eric Smith, Brian Evans, Ray Wheeler 18-20
Pat Steel, Max Jacob, Eddie Goddard, Pat Main 13-27
Bob Beard, Wendy Buss, David Webb, Roger Worth 29-15
Jean Buckett, Eric Davis, Wendy Cross, Graham Kennedy 28-7
Val Beard, Dave Buckett, David Steel, Bill Blackmore 25-10
Charlotte Jacob, Sue Reid, Phil Buckett, Len Mitton 17-22.

Thursday saw a key ODBL match for Shiplake as they entertained Blackbird Leys for a top of the table clash. Wins on three rinks, including an emphatic victory on Barry Lambourne’s rink by 33 shots, gave Shiplake 5 ODBL points. With 3 games to go and a lead of 11 points over third place Charlbury Shiplake have Division 2 firmly in their sights.
Shiplake scores:
Peter Christmas, Eddie Goddard, Allen Newbury, Roger Worth 20-24
Francis Benham, David Bullock, Graham Kennedy, Barry Lambourne 42-9
Simon Hastings, Bill Blackmore, Jim Bland, Barrie Evans 16-15
Darren St John, Len Mitton, Iain Robinson, Ryan Buckett 26-11.

On Saturday Shiplake were at home for an MUL game against the University of Reading. Barry Lambourne, with Margaret Bullock and Eddie Goddard, achieved the best result of the day, winning by 19 shots. Jim Bland had a comfortable win but the results on two other rinks were in doubt almost until the final wood – with Barrie Evans snatching a win and Graham Kennedy losing by just 2 shots. Wins on 3 rinks and an overall shots win of 101 to 81 gave Shiplake 8 MUL points.
Shiplake scores:
Helen Robinson, Bill Blackmore, Allen Newbury 13-23
Peter Christmas, Phyllis Mansfield, Graham Kennedy 16-18
Simon Hastings, Wendy Cross, Barrie Evans 19-15
Sylvia Blackmore, Iain Robinson, Jim Bland 23-14
Margaret Bullock, Eddie Goddard, Barry Lambourne 30-11.

On Sunday Shiplake’s second home game of the weekend was against Thame. New to the fixture list last season this was Thame’s first visit to Shiplake. Despite good wins for Daphne Jacob, with Charlotte Jacob and Dave Buckett, and Bill Blackmore, with Jean Webb and Peter Higgs, Thame won the encounter by 88 shots to 82.
Shiplake scores:
Jean Webb, Peter Higgs, Bill Blackmore 20-15
Sonia Stretch, Helen Robinson, Pat Main 11-18
Julia Perry, Terry Auger, Wendy Cross 13-18
Charlotte Jacob, Dave Buckett, Daphne Jacob 24-17
Angie Main, Peter Cross, David Webb 14-20.

24 July

On Wednesday evening Shiplake travelled to Lower Earley to play Suttons. Howard West skipped Shiplake’s only winning rink. Allen Newbury’s rink came close to a win – they were ahead from the start until the opposition drew level on the 20th end and then picked up 3 shots on the last end. The result of the match was a victory for Suttons – a reversal of Shiplake’s win earlier in the season.
Shiplake scores:
Charlotte Jacob, Pat Walker, Max Jacob, Roger Worth 18-21
Janette Macarthur, Sue Reid, Sylvia Blackmore, Trevor Beaumont 13-22
Eric Davis, David Webb, Howard West 27-12
Jill Rumble, Peter Higgs, Les Redding, Allen Newbury 18-21
Simon Hastings, Ed Jukes, Mick Lovejoy, Barrie Evans 9-28
Jean Webb, David Buckett, Ray Wheeler, Daphne Jacob 13-15.

For Thursday’s ODBL game Shiplake were at home to Oxford University Press. This game brought together the team occupying the bottom place in the league and the current league leaders. On three rinks Shiplake led from the start and secured comfortable wins, with an impressive 26 shot winning margin on Allen Newbury’s rink . The game was much closer on Ryan Buckett’s rink – the lead changed hands several times and finished as a draw. So 5½ points to Shiplake, enough to keep them top of the table on shot difference.
Shiplake scores:
Darren St John, Max Jacob, Trevor Beaumont, Ryan Buckett 17-17
Eric Davis, Les Redding, Bill Blackmore, Roger Worth 23-12
Simon Hastings, Ray Wheeler, Jim Bland, Barrie Evans 31-15
John Chamberlain, David Webb, Eddie Goddard, Allen Newbury 33-7.

On Saturday Shiplake travelled to Goring for an MUL game. The start was delayed due to torrential rain and as the green dried out it proved quite difficult to find the weight. At the tenth end Goring were ahead on all three rinks but Shiplake came back strongly. Shiplake president and captain of the day, Howard West, skipped the highest winning rink, supported by Charlotte Jacob, Jean Webb and Phyllis Mansfield. Two wins and a shot difference of 14 gave Shiplake 9 MUL points.
Shiplake scores:
Helen Robinson, Peter Higgs, Eddie Goddard, Daphne Jacob 20-21
Charlotte Jacob, Jean Webb, Phyllis Mansfield, Howard West 24-14
Mairwen West, Sylvia Blackmore, David Webb, Les Redding 19-14.

Shiplake travelled to Oxford for Sunday’s 6 rink game against South Oxford. David Steel with Helen Robinson, Eric Davis and Julia Perry achieved the best score of the day, closely followed by the rink skipped by Phyllis Mansfield. Wins on four rinks ensured victory for Shiplake by 127 shots to 100.
Shiplake scores:
Val Beard, Pat Steel, Val Beaumont, Pat Main 21-20
Simon Hastings, Wendy Buss, Peter Higgs, Trevor Beaumont 14-23
Sylvia Blackmore, Jill Rumble, Terry Auger, Bob beard 23-11
Janet Stockwell, Max Jacob, Eddie Goddard, Wendy Cross 13-19
Angie Main, Dave Buckett, Mairwen West, Phyllis Mansfield 26-13
Helen Robinson, Eric Davis, Julia Perry, David Steel 30-14.

17 July

On Wednesday morning Shiplake’s Daphne Jacob played in the quarter finals of the Ladies County Singles which were hosted by Henley on their bowling green. Daphne had a comfortable win which saw her playing in the semi-finals after lunch. Daphne lost this game, but is to be congratulated on her progress in this competition which firmly places her in the ranks of Oxfordshire’s top lady bowlers.

On Wednesday evening Shiplake were at home for an MUL game against Pangbourne. Daphne Jacob, supported by Charlotte Jacob and Peter Christmas, skipped the highest winning triple, with an impressive 20 shot margin. Iain Robinson and Mick Lovejoy also skipped their triples to victory, which ensured an overall win for Shiplake by 9 shots, and 8 MUL points.
Shiplake scores:
Helen Robinson, Len Mitton, Barrie Evans 17-25
Charlotte Jacob, Peter Christmas, Daphne Jacob 30-10
Margaret Bullock, David Webb, Iain Robinson 22-6
Val Beard, Wendy Cross, Roger Worth 4-33
Val Beaumont, Phyllis Mansfield, Mick Lovejoy 21-11.

For Thursday’s ODBL game Shiplake travelled to West Oxford. Roger Worth skipped the highest winning rink by a margin of 14 shots. Two other winning rinks meant Shiplake went away with 5 ODBL points, enough to put them back on the top of the division by half a point.
Shiplake scores:
Simon Hastings, Pat Main, Graham Kennedy, Barry Lambourne 21-13
Francis Benham, Howard West, Bill Blackmore, Allen Newbury 23-18
John Chamberlain, Ray Wheeler, Trevor Beaumont, Barrie Evans 18-21
Bob Beard, Len Mitton, Iain Robinson, Roger Worth 25-11,

On Saturday Shiplake entertained Maidenhead Town. The game provided a good contest and all concerned hope this first game beween the two sides will be the first of many. Mick Lovejoy with Eric Davis, Janette Macarthur and Les Redding, skipped the highest winning rink, and two other good wins from skips Bill Blackmore and Trevor Beaumont gave Shiplake victory by 117 shots to 91.
Shiplake scores:
Simon Hastings, Jackie Stafford, Sylvia Blackmore, Trevor Beaumont 29-17
Eric Davis, Janette Macarthur, Les Redding, Mick Lovejoy 34-10
Sonia Stretch, Vera Harris, Helen Robinson, Jim Bland 17-20
Darren St John, Max Jacob, Edna Orchard, Bill Blackmore 26-15
Charlotte Jacob, Sue Reid, David Webb, Daphne Jacob 11-29.

11 July

For Shiplake, after several matches played in blistering heat it was a relief to take to the green on Wednesday for the MUL game against Hurst in much cooler weather. In the event, Hurst adapted to the conditions better than Shiplake! Hurst won on three rinks and had the better overall score so went home with 8 MUL points. Shiplake’s highest winning triple was husband and wife team Iain and Helen Robinson, with Len Mitton. Roger Worth skipped the only other winning triple – 13-3 up after 8 ends they then stalled for 5 ends before regaining the initiative and finishing 4 shots clear.
Shiplake scores:
Val Beard, Bill Blackmore, Allen Newbury 15-21
Peter Christmas, Wendy Cross, Barrie Evans 11-24
Helen Robinson, Len Mitton, Iain Robinson 20-13
Edna Orchard, Howard West, Roger Worth 19-15
Sonia Stretch, David Webb, Mick Lovejoy 10-16.

Shiplake travelled to Charlbury for Thursday’s ODBL match. Two wins and one draw, and an overall score of 72 shots to Charlbury’s 74, meant Shiplake came away with their lowest score in the league this season - just 2½ points. Barrie Evans skipped the highest winning rink, supported by John Chamberlain, Ray Wheeler and Trevor Beaumont.
Shiplake scores:
John Chamberlain, Ray Wheeler, Trevor Beaumont, Barrie Evans 21-15
Simon Hastings, Pat Main, Len Mitton, Graham Kennedy 17-17
Peter Christmas, Bob Beard, Iain Robinson, Roger Worth 21-20
Francis Benham, Howard West, Bill Blackmore, Allen Newbury 13-22.

On Saturday Shiplake travelled to Hook. Peter Christmas, with Jackie Stafford, Eric Smith and Phil Buckett, were the highest winning rink – recovering well from 5 shots down at tea-time to win by 5 shots. Pat Main skipped the only other winning rink and Shiplake lost the match with 106 shots to Hook’s 137.
Shiplake scores:
Jean Buckett, Max Jacob, Peter Higgs, Pat Main 19-15
Jackie Stafford, Eric Smith, Phil Buckett, Peter Christmas 23-18
Sonia Stretch, David Buckett, Helen Stain, Edna Orchard 19-21
Julia Perry, Paula Benham, Terry Auger, Wendy Cross 14-31
Charlotte Jacob, Eric Davis, Peter Cross, Francis Benham 18-28
Angie Main, Sonia Higgs, Sylvia Blackmore, Les Redding 13-24.

On Sunday Shiplake were at home to Wokingham. Pat Main’s winning streak continued. Playing with Sonia Stretch, Wendy Buss and Peter Higgs he skipped the highest winning rink. Playing against his old club Ray Wheeler skipped his rink to victory by 17 shots. Wins on two other rinks gave Shiplake a winning score of 130 shots to 93.
Shiplake scores:
Jean Buckett, Paula Benham, David Buckett, Allen Newbury 18-14
Vera Harris, Pat Walker, Bob Beard, Graham Kennedy 20-18
Sonia Stretch, Wendy Buss, Peter Higgs, Pat Main 29-9
Angie Main, Ed Jukes, Janette Macarthur, Wendy Cross 16-18
Val Beard, Phil Buckett, Terry Auger, Ray Wheeler 30-13
Julia Perry, Sue Reid, Helen Robinson, Francis Benham 17-21.

4 July

A week of mixed fortunes for Shiplake. On Wednesday they entertained neighbours Henley for a Plomer Cup match. Brian Evans, supported by Sonia Stretch and Max Jacob, achieved the best result of the evening, with a shot difference of 11. Final result: 6 Plomer points each.
Shiplake scores:
Jacky Stafford, Phil Buckett, Peter Christmas 17-13
Helen Robinson, John Snook, David Steel 7-34
Sonia Stretch, Max Jacob, Brian Evans 26-15
Val Beaumont, Pat Steel, Bill Blackmore 11-22
Jean Buckett, Peter Higgs, Wendy Cross 20-19.

For Thursday’s ODBL match Shiplake travelled to Hanborough. There were comfortable wins on Barrie Evans and Allen Newbury’s rinks but the other two rinks lost by just one shot which gave 2 ODBL points to Hanborough and four to Shiplake.
Shiplake scores:
Simon Hastings, Pat Main, David Bullock, Graham Kennedy 16-17
Francis Benham, Len Mitton, Eddie Goddard, Allen Newbury 20-12
John Chamberlain, Max Jacob, Trevor Beaumont, Barrie Evans 26-15
Bob Beard, Bill Blackmore, Iain Robinson, Roger Worth 14-15.

On Saturday Shiplake travelled to Maiden Erlegh. Mick Lovejoy, with Val Beard, David Buckett and Janette Macarthur achieved the highest score for Shiplake with a margin of 11 shots. Howard West skipped the only other winning rink and Maiden Erlegh won the match with a score of 124 shots to Shiplake’s 96. Revenge for Shiplake’s victory in the opening game of the season!
Shiplake scores:
Val Beard, David Buckett, Janette Macarthur, Mick Lovejoy 27-16
Pat Steel, Eric Davis, Pat Main, Iain Robinson 16-17
Sonia Stretch, Bob beard, Francis benham, David Steel 10-22
Helen Robinson, Helen Stain, Les Redding, Wendy Cross 14-22
Jackie Stafford, Paula Benham, Ray Wheeler, Trevor Beaumont 11-31
Angie Main, Terry Auger, Eddie Goddard, Howard West 19-15.

On Sunday morning Shiplake fielded an unchanged team for the third round of the Top Club competition against Oxford City and County. The spectators were treated to some excellent bowling from both sides but the visitors, who included an England player and several eminent county players were in devastating form. In the Singles Margaret Bullock made a good recovery after a slow start and lost by just 2 shots. With wins all four rinks Oxford City and County go on to the next round. This is the furthest that Shiplake have ever progressed in this competition, and the ladies are to be congratulated on their performance.
Shiplake scores:
Margaret Bullock (Single) 19-21
Sylvia Blackmore, Val Beaumont (Pair) 14-28
Mairwen West, Phyllis Mansfield, Wendy Cross (Triple) 10-21
Charlotte Jacob, Jean Webb, Edna Orchard, Daphne Jacob (Four) 8-22.

On Sunday Shiplake were at home to Rover (Cowley). Wins on all six rinks made a satisfactory end to the week. Allen Newbury with Angie Main, Pat Steel and Phil Buckett achieved the best score of the day with a winning margin of 20. Pat Main’s rink staged the best recovery of the day – 8-18 down at 10 ends, they came back to win 30-22. Score: Shiplake 162 shots, Rover 102.
Shiplake scores:
Jean Buckett, David Buckett, Peter Higgs, Iain Robinson 21-18
Helen Robinson, Pat Walker, David Steel, Graham Kennedy 21-13
Margaret Bullock, Vera Harris, Ray Wheeler, Howard West 26-13
Sonia Stretch, John Snook, Phyllis Mansfield, Pat Main 30-22
Angie Main, Pat Steel, Phil Buckett, Allen Newbury 39-19
Jackie Stafford, Max Jacob, Val Beaumont, Wendy Cross 25-17.

27 June

On Wednesday Shiplake travelled to Pangbourne for an MUL match. It took time for the Shiplake players to adjust to a fast but tricky green as reflected in the scores for the early ends. The score on captain Wendy Cross’ triple was 10 all after 10 ends, then the visitors forged ahead to win by a margin of 10 shots. Oxfordshire president David Bullock turns out regularly for his home side, despite a full schedule of county events. On this occasion, David, with Helen Robinson and Francis Benham, was also level at 10 all at the half-way point, then went on to become the highest scoring rink. Shiplake won the match 104 shots to 65, gaining 10 MUL points.
Shiplake scores:
Margaret Bullock, Edna Orchard, Allen Newbury 21-11
Charlotte Jacob, David Steel, Roger Worth 15-19;
Val Beard, Les Redding, Wendy Cross 23-13
Helen Robinson, Francis Benham, David Bullock 26-12
Mairwen West, Eddie Goddard, Daphne Jacob 19-10.

For Thursday’s ODBL game Shiplake were at home against Woodstock. Roger Worth with Simon Hastings, Bill Blackmore and Iain Robinson achieved the highest score of the evening. Two other winning rinks and a shot difference of 30 gave Shiplake 5 ODBL points – a good result but they slip to second place in the division.
Shiplake scores:
Francis Benham, Len Mitton, Graham Kennedy, Allen Newbury 24-15
Peter Christmas, Bob Beard, Trevor Beaumont, Barrie Evans 20-14
Simon Hastings, Bill Blackmore, Iain Robinson, Roger Worth 32-15
Eddie Goddard, Pat Main, David Bullock, Barry Lambourne 17-19

On Saturday Shiplake’s vice-captain David Steel took 5 rinks to Prospect Park. The Shiplake players did not let the hot weather affect their game. They only lost on one rink and won the match 112 shots to 74. Shiplake have now won 23 of the 26 mixed matches played so far this season. David Steel skipped the highest winning rink. David with Val Beard, Pat Walker and Eddie Goddard won by a margin of 25 shots.
Shiplake scores:
Val Beard, Pat Walker, Eddie Goddard, David Steel 34-9
Sonia Stretch, Peter Higgs, Pat Main, Trevor Beaumont 20-14
Jackie Stafford, Ann Cox, Phil Buckett, Bill Blackmore 18-14
Angie Main, David Buckett, Janette Macarthur, Bob Beard 18-22
Jean Buckett, Sue Reid, Ray Wheeler, Peter Christmas 22-15.

Sunday was a big day for Shiplake when OBA president David Bullock brought a strong team of Oxfordshire players for an OBA President’s Game against his home club. As the visitors adjusted to the green they inexorably drew ahead on all but 2 rinks. Skip Graham Kennedy – drawn against Shiplake member Barry Lambourne who was in the president’s team – held the opposition until the last 3 ends and lost by just 3 shots. The honour of being the highest winning rink for Shiplake went to Jim Bland, supported by Darren St John, Bob Beard and Trevor Beaumont.

Shiplake president Howard West used this public occasion to announce that in recognition of his many contributions to the club Eric Davis was appointed Honorary Life Vice-President. Eric has been a member for over 30 years and is the longest serving member of the club. His name appears many times on the club honours board. He played many times for Oxfordshire and in 1991 he played in a triple in the National Finals at Worthing after reaching the county finals. He was also Shiplake’s green keeper for 17 years.

Shiplake scores:
Francis Benham, Peter Higgs, Len Mitton, Barrie Evans 17-27
Darren St John, Bob Beard, Trevor Beaumont, Jim Bland 23-16
Eric Davis, Max Jacob, Eddie Goddard, Howard West 12-28
David Webb, David Steel, Iain Robinson, Allen Newbury 7-36
Simon Hastings, Pat Main, Brian Evans, Roger Worth 17-29
Peter Christmas, David Buckett, Bill Blackmore, Graham Kennedy 14-17.

20 June

Another busy week for Shiplake started on Wednesday with a home game against Suttons. After 10 ends the home team was ahead on only 2 rinks. Then the Shiplake players stepped up a gear and the final result was a win on all six rinks and a shot difference of 60.
Shiplake scores:
Mairwen West, Max Jacob, David Bullock, Barry Lambourne 17-16
Charlotte Jacob, David Webb, Mick Lovejoy, Barrie Evans 21-20
Val Beaumont, Francis Benham, Wendy Cross, Graham Kennedy 22-14
Joe Wylie, Edna Orchard, David Steel, Trevor Beaumont 32-10
Margaret Bullock, Bob Beard, Phyllis Mansfield, Howard West 25-9
Val Beard, Pat Steel, Peter Christmas, Daphne Jacob 26-14.

For Thursday’s ODBL game Shiplake were at home for a shortened game of 15 ends against Chipping Norton. Trevor Beaumont with Simon Hastings, Len Mitton and Iain Robinson, achieved the highest score of the evening. Barrie Evans and Barry Lambourne also skipped winning rinks, and the draw on Allen Newbury’s rink gave Shiplake 5½ ODBL points – putting them back to the top of the division on shot difference.
Shiplake scores:
Peter Christmas, Bob Beard, Eddie Goddard, Barrie Evans 19-11
Francis Benham, Max Jacob, David Bullock, Barry Lambourne 17-10
Joe Wylie, Pat Main, Bill Blackmore, Allen Newbury 10-10
Simon Hastings, Len Mitton, Iain Robinson, Trevor Beaumont 25-7.

On Saturday Shiplake were at home for an MUL game against Goring. In his third match in four days Trevor Beaumont skipped the highest winning rink. Wins for all five triples gave Shiplake 12 MUL points to consolidate their position at the top of the MUL.
Shiplake scores:
Helen Robinson, David Steel, Trevor Beaumont 26-4
Mairwen West, Eddie Goddard, Allen Newbury 26-7
Edna Orchard, Howard West, Barrie Evans 18-17
Simon Hastings, Wendy Cross, Jim Bland 29-12
Val Beard, Les Redding, Iain Robinson 23-8.

On Sunday morning Shiplake fielded an unchanged team for the second round of the Top Club competition against Thame. Margaret Bullock won her Singles game comfortably, but after close games the Triple and the Pair lost narrowly, leaving everything hinging on the Four. Again this was a close game, but Shiplake came from behind to win. So 2 games all but Shiplake won on shot difference and now go on to the third round against Oxford City and County.
Shiplake scores:
Margaret Bullock (Single) 21-7
Sylvia Blackmore, Val Beaumont (Pair) 13-19
Mairwen West, Phyllis Mansfield, Wendy Cross (Triple) 16-19
Charlotte Jacob, Jean Webb, Edna Orchard, Daphne Jacob (Four) 26-16.

On Sunday afternoon Shiplake’s vice-captain David Steel took 5 rinks to Broomwade. On a “sporty surface” (David’s words) David had an excellent game to snatch victory for his rink by 2 shots. David Webb, with Jean Buckett, Eric Davis and Ann Clark achieved the highest score of the day. Francis Benham’s rink also had a comfortable victory. However Broomwade won the match by 106 shots to 88.
Shiplake scores:
Angie Main, Terry Auger, Wendy Cross, Francis Benham 22-14
Jean Buckett, Eric Davis, Ann Clark, David Webb 25-14, Jean Webb, Pat Walker, Pat Main, Iain Robinson 14-32
Pat Steel, Paula Benham, David Buckett, Bryan Clark 10-31
Helen Robinson, Jacky Stafford, Phil Buckett, David Steel 17-15.

13 June

On Wednesday Shiplake entertained six rinks from Island Bohemian. Bill Blackmore, supported by Francis Benham, Pat Steel and David Bullock, had a game of two halves – the visitors were well ahead at the half way point, then failed to score after the 12th end and lost by 7 shots. At the end of the game each side had won on three rinks, but the high scores on Roger Worth’s and Barrie Evans’ rinks gave Shiplake victory by 130 shots to 105.
Shiplake scores:
Angie Main, John Snook, Val Beaumont, Barry Lambourne 15-19
Francis Benham, Pat Steel, David Bullock, Bill Blackmore 20-13;
Margaret Bullock, Max Jacob, Peter Christmas, Wendy Cross 20-25
Janet Stockwell, Sue Reid, David Steel, Barrie Evans 29-9
Sonia Stretch, Eric Davis, Pat Main, Roger Worth 31-15
Joe Wylie, Jacky Stafford, Brian Evans, Allen Newbury 15-24.

For Thursday’s ODBL game Shiplake travelled to Blackbird Leys. The teams were on their mettle, as both were unbeaten in the league. Comfortable wins on Roger Worth's and Barrie Evans’ rinks earned 2 ODBL points, but that was all that Shiplake took away. The overall score was in Blackbird Leys’ favour, giving them four ODBL points in total.
Shiplake scores:
Joe Wylie, Pat Main, Allen Newbury, Graham Kennedy 14-26
Francis Benham, Len Mitton, David Bullock, Barry Lambourne 18-28
Darren St. John, Simon Hastings, Iain Robinson, Roger Worth 24-16
Peter Christmas, Bill Blackmore, Trevor Beaumont, Barrie Evans 21-17.

For Saturday’s game Blackbird Leys came to Shiplake. Helped by the loan of two Shiplake bowlers, Bill and Sylvia Blackmore, Blackbird Leys achieved a second victory over Shiplake in 3 days! Allen Newbury with Val Beaumont, Terry Auger and Pat Main were Shiplake’s only winning rink.
Shiplake scores:
Sonia Stretch, Angie Main, Les Redding, Jim Bland 16-26
Simon Hastings, Pat Walker, David Webb, Wendy Cross 14-22
Peter Christmas, Sue Reid, Edna Orchard, Trevor Beaumont 20-22
Val Beaumont, Terry Auger, Pat Main, Allen Newbury 23-18.

The Under 31s Ladies’ county game scheduled to be played on Shiplake’s green on Sunday morning was postponed. In its place Shiplake fielded two rinks for a friendly game against the County U31s. The young ladies, which included Shiplake’s Charlotte Jacob, plus two lads who have played for Oxfordshire Mens U25s, impressed everyone and showed great promise.
Shiplake names first: Jean Webb, Sonia Stretch, Phil Buckett, Peter Christmas 21, Liz Elvin, Helen Stain, Simon Hastings, Rachel Coombs 7
Sylvia Blackmore, Jean Buckett, Val Beaumont, Dave Webb 10, Jody Fitter, Jack Hall, Charlotte Jacob, Donna Grant 15.

Shiplake were looking for revenge when they travelled to Three Mile Cross on Sunday. Three Mile Cross had been the first team to beat Shiplake this season. Highest score of the day was on Trevor Beaumont’s rink. Trevor, supported by Helen Robinson, Gordon Orchard and Francis Benham won by an impressive margin of 29 shots. 2 shots on the final end on Bryan Clark’s rink gave them victory by one shot. Shiplake won the match by a satisfying 136 shots to 99.
Shiplake scores:
Sylvia Blackmore, Angie Main, Len Mitton, Iain Robinson 8-27
Val Beard, John Snook, Phyllis Mansfield, Howard West 30-12
Jean Webb, Eric Davis, Ann Clark, Wendy Cross 18-20
Sonia Stretch, Jacky Stafford, Bob Beard, Bryan Clark 19-28
Helen Robinson, Gordon Orchard, Francis Benham, Trevor Beaumont 38-9
Mairwen West, Paula Benham, Pat Main, David Webb 23-13.

6 June

Another busy week for Shiplake started on Wednesday with a home game against Palmer Park. The rink skipped by Barrie Evans, supported by Simon Hastings and captain Wendy Cross, achieved the best score of the evening. Comfortable wins on three other rinks resulted in a shot difference of 49 and 10 MUL points.
Shiplake scores:
Pat Steel, Joe Wylie, Allen Newbury 17-20
Simon Hastings, Wendy Cross, Barrie Evans 26-10
Angie Main, Peter Christmas, Graham Kennedy 23-10
Val Beard, Mick Lovejoy, Roger Worth 25-14
Jean Buckett, Jim Bland, Barry Lambourne 23-11.

In Thursday’s ODBL game Shiplake had another good result in their away game against Oxford University Press. Barry Lambourne’s rink achieved the highest score of the evening. Barry has averaged over 30 shots per game so far this season, which has helped Shiplake be top scorer in the League. Shiplake’s 5 ODBL points consolidated their position at the top of the division.
Shiplake scores:
Francis Benham, David Bullock, Jim Bland, Barry Lambourne 36-6
Darren St John, Simon Hastings, Iain Robinson, Ryan Buckett 27-13
Peter Christmas, Trevor Beaumont, Roger Worth, Barrie Evans 30-16
Joe Wylie, Pat Main, Alan Newbury, Graham Kennedy 19-33.

On Saturday Shiplake held their in-house Drawn Fours competition. Two clear finalists emerged from two halves of the draw. An exciting final saw skip Howard West, with Eddie Goddard and Pat and Angie Main take on skip Jim Bland, supported by Jean Buckett, Pat Steel and Max Jacob. Going in to the last end Howard’s rink had a 3 shot lead but the last bowl of the day, an accurate weighted shot from Jim, removed the only opposition wood from the head to give Jim’s rink 4 shots and the title.

On Sunday morning ten Shiplake ladies played the ladies of Carterton at home in the first round of the Top Club competion. The Single and Four won comfortably but the Triple and the Pair were both in doubt until the last end. The final result was a clean sweep, and Shiplake go on to the next round against Thame.
Shiplake scores:
Margaret Bullock (Single) 21-5
Sylvia Blackmore, Val Beaumont (Pair) 20-19
Mairwen West, Phyllis Mansfield, Wendy Cross (Triple) 21-18
Charlotte Jacob, Jean Webb, Edna Orchard, Daphne Jacob (Four) 30-11.

On Sunday afternoon Shiplake were away at Wallingford. Six of the ladies had been in action in the morning but still had enough energy to bowl another 21 ends and contribute to Shiplake’s tally of 118 shots to Wallingford’s 75. Two of the Top Club participants, Daphne Jacob and Mairwen West, with Gordon Orchard and Pat Main, accumulated the highest score of the afternoon.
Shiplake scores:
Charlotte Jacob, Phil Buckett, Len Mitton, Allen Newbury 26-12
Sonia Stretch, Jean Webb, Edna Orchard, Howard West 26-17
Angie Main, Jacky Stafford, Les Redding, Wendy Cross 18-18
Jean Buckett, John Snook, David Webb, Trevor Beaumont 16-18
Mairwen West, Gordon Orchard, Pat Main, Daphne Jacob 32-10.

May 30

Shiplake members endured a wet week on the bowling green. No games were cancelled but two were curtailed.

On Wednesday Three Mile Cross travelled from the other side of Reading to Shiplake. After playing 12 ends in the rain the players retreated into the clubhouse for an early supper. Mick Lovejoy, supported by Sylvia Blackmore, Peter Higgs and Pat Main achieved the best score of the day in this shortened match, winning by a margin of 10 shots. However Shiplake lost by 56 shots to 61, and also its unbeaten record - but who knows what might have happened if the full 21 ends had been played!
Shiplake scores:
Sylvia Blackmore, Peter Higgs, Pat Main, Mick Lovejoy 16-6
Joe Wylie, David Buckett, Edna Orchard, Peter Christmas 5-11
Val Beard, Vera Harris, David Steel, Graham Kennedy 6-11
Gordon Orchard, John Snook, Phyllis Mansfield, David Webb 13-11
Jean Webb, Pat Steel, Francis Benham, Barry Lambourne 5-15
Angie Main, Len Mitton, Bob Beard, Bill Blackmore 11-7.

For Thursday’s ODBL game Shiplake were at home to West Oxford. On 3 rinks Shiplake were ahead from the start and won by substantial margins. The rink skipped by Barrie Evans, with Peter Christmas, Len Mitton and Trevor Beaumont had more of a tussle. They were 3 shots behind going into the 21 st end. Barrie managed to trail the jack with his first wood and draw with his second to give his rink the 3 shots needed for a draw. 5½ ODBL points to Shiplake.
Shiplake scores:
Francis Benham, Peter Higgs, David Bullock, Barry Lambourne 31-11
Darren St John, Simon Hastings, Iain Robinson, Ryan Buckett 30-10
Peter Christmas, Len Mitton, Trevor Beaumont, Barrie Evans 17-17
Joe Wylie, Bob Beard, Alan Newbury, Graham Kennedy 21-10.

On Saturday Shiplake players were in action at two venues. Eight ladies travelled to South Oxford to take part in the Oxfordshire Ladies Unbadged Pairs competition. Defending 2005 champions Sylvia Blackmore and Val Beaumont won their first game but then lost to another Shiplake pair Charlotte Jacob and Jean Webb. Charlotte and Jean are now through to the semi-final which will take place in July.

The other action on Saturday was at Great Hollands. A fine drizzle was falling as the game got underway. The heavy green became heavier as the afternoon went on, the rain continued to fall and after 14 ends the game was called off. At this stage Shiplake were well in the lead on three rinks and the winners overall by 76 shots to 55. New bowler Sue Reid acquitted herself well in her first game for the club.
Shiplake scores:
Sonia Stretch, Eric Davis, Pat Main, Graham Kennedy 12-14
Peter Christmas, David Buckett, Edna Orchard, Trevor Beaumont 18-6
Gordon Orchard, Sue Reid, Les Redding, Wendy Cross 19-8
Francis Benham, Peter Cross, Janette Macarthur, Iain Robinson 11-17
Helen Robinson, Max Jacob, David Steel, Howard West 16-10.

On Sunday Shiplake took six rinks to Florence Park in Oxford. Jim Bland, with Charlotte Jacob, Peter Cross and Peter Higgs, had a narrow victory – holding 22 shots after 13 ends they failed to gain any more shots and won by 22 shots to 21! Shiplake won the match by 142 shots to 98.
Shiplake scores:
Margaret Bullock, Max Jacob, Bob Beard, David Steel 23-17
Charlotte Jacob, Peter Cross, Peter Higgs, Jim Bland 22-21
Sonia Stretch, John Snook, Phyllis Mansfield, Wendy Cross 30-16
Val Beard, Pat Steel, Francis Benham, Trevor Beaumont 26-14
Mairwen West, David Buckett, Sylvia Blackmore, Daphne Jacob 29-8
Paula Benham, Sonia Higgs, Pat Main, Len Mitton 12-22.

On Monday Shiplake held the annual President v Chairman match. This was another game interrupted by rain but the showers failed to dampen the spirits of the 42 bowlers taking part. The match was played for the Betty Shaw Cup. This was presented to the club in memory of Betty by her daughters, one of whom was there to present the cup to Phyllis Mansfield – the club chairman – who led her side to victory over president Howard West’s team by a margin of just 8 points.

23 May

On Wednesday, on a cold and wet evening, Shiplake travelled to Peppard for a MUL game. Best result of the evening was achieved by Barrie Evans with Charlotte Jacob and Janette Macarthur. Best recovery of the evening was on Graham Kennedy’s rink – where Shiplake came back from 10-2 down to win 16-12, gaining one shot on the final end to give Shiplake a win overall by 81 shots to 80. The MUL points were shared 6 apiece.
Shiplake scores:
Joe Wylie, Eddie Goddard, Daphne Jacob 14-20
Margaret Bullock, David Steel, Barry Lambourne 15-17
Charlotte Jacob, Janette Macarthur, Barrie Evans 22-14
Val Beard, Bill Blackmore, Graham Kennedy 16-12
Sylvia Blackmore, Brian Evans, Les Redding 14-17.

After the excitement of the cup, Thursday’s ODBL game was Shiplake’s first league game. They were at home against Charlbury. Graham Kennedy, supported by Joe Wylie, John Chamberlain and Alan Newbury won by an impressive margin of 26 shots. Final result - 5 league points to Shiplake, one point to Charlbury.
Shiplake scores:
Francis Benham, Trevor Beaumont, David Bullock, Barry Lambourne 29-10
Darren St John, Simon Hastings, Iain Robinson, Ryan Buckett 23-12
Joe Wylie, John Chamberlain, Alan Newbury, Graham Kennedy 33-7
Peter Christmas, Bill Blackmore, Len Mitton, Barrie Evans 18-24.

On Saturday 30 Shiplake members gathered for an afternoon of target bowls. This type of game favours the accurate draw bowler, but also has rules capable of different interpretations, which led to much lively discussion as the points were allocated for each end. All participants contributed a plate towards the post match meal, as has become the custom for club events, and everyone agreed that it had been a most enjoyable afternoon.

On Sunday Shiplake entertained South Oxford. Because of the weather the game was in doubt up to the last minute but optimism rather than common sense prevailed, the players ventured out, and the game went ahead in damp conditions that gradually cleared as the afternoon wore on. Daphne Jacob, with Sonia Stretch, Peter Cross and Eddie Goddard, had an excellent result – 9-13 down after 10 ends, then amassing a total of 34 shots by the end, without allowing the opposition to add to their score. The final result was another win for Shiplake by 139 shots to 94 - maintaining their unbeaten record in mixed club matches this season.
Shiplake scores:
Pat Steel, Pat Main, Edna Orchard, Trevor Beaumont 23-15
Angie Main, Pat Walker, David Steel, Les Redding 17-17
Charlotte Jacob, Max Jacob, Bob Beard, Wendy Cross 18-20
Val Beard, Peter Higgs, Phyllis Mansfield, Len Mitton 22-20
Simon Hastings, Dave Buckett, Val Beaumont, Allen Newbury 25-9
Sonia Stretch, Peter Cross, Eddie Goddard, Daphne Jacob 34-13.

16 May

On Wednesday Shiplake entertained Wargrave. The weather looked as if it might prevent the game, with thunder and lightning all around as the players assembled, but after a delay of a few minutes the game got underway. By the end Shiplake had beaten the opposition as well as the weather, winning on 3 rinks and by 112 shots to 83.
Shiplake scores:
Ann Clark, Pat Steel, Mick Lovejoy, Len Mitton 23-9
Sylvia Blackmore, John Snook, Bill Blackmore, Barry Lambourne 36-11
Mairwen West, D. Buckett, W. Cross, B. Clark 16-20
Jackie Stafford, Peter Higgs, Brian Evans, Grahan Kennedy 28-10
Eddie Goddard, Pat Walker, David Steel, David Webb 9-33.

On Thursday Shiplake’s cup run came to an end. They had their third away game in the ODBL cup, against Headington and despite a fine performance from all Shiplake couldn’t repeat their previous successes and Headington were the victors by a margin of 24 shots.
Shiplake scores:
Peter Christmas, Trevor Beaumont, Eddie Goddard, Graham Kennedy 13-19
Joe Wylie, David Steel, Bill Blackmore, Alan Newbury 12-21
Francis Benham, Peter Higgs, David Bullock, Barry Lambourne 8-15
Darren St John, Simon Hastings, Len Mitton, Ryan Buckett 13-15.

On Saturday Shiplake travelled to Burghfield. Good results on Trevor Beaumont and Mick Lovejoy’s rinks ensured an overall win for Shiplake.
Shiplake scores:
Sonia Stretch, Angie Main, Bob Beard, Trevor Beaumont 26-15
Ann Cox, Janette Macarthur, Peter Higgs, Mick Lovejoy 23-21
Val Beard, Jackie Stafford, David Steel, Brian Clark 13-19
Ann Clark, Pat Steel, Eddie Goddard, Peter Christmas 16-18
Joe Wylie, Pat Main, Val Beaumont, Les Redding 14-17.

On Sunday Shiplake were away at Watlington for a Plomer Cup match. Wins on four out of the five rinks, with Barry Lambourne, supported by Mairwen West, Max Jacob and David Webb achieving the best result of the day, ensured victory for Shiplake by 104 shots to 77, and 10 Plomer Cup points.
Shiplake scores:
Charlotte Jacob, Phyllis Mansfield, David Bullock, Bill Blackmore 17-22
Joe Wylie, Jean Webb, Wendy Cross, Ryan Buckett 21-13
Sylvia Blackmore, Peter Cross, Howard West, Daphne Jacob 21-14;
Mairwen West, Max Jacob, David Webb, Barry Lambourne 27-11
Jean Buckett, Phil Buckett, Len Mitton, Graham Kennedy 18-17.

8 May

Shiplake started a busy week hoping to maintain their 100% unbeaten record. On Wednesday they had a 5 rink game away at Woodley. Skip Graham Kennedy, supported by David Bullock and Pat and Angie Main achieved the best score of the evening with an impressive 19 shot difference. The final result was a win for Shiplake by 106 shots to 72.
Shiplake scores:
Vera Harris, Dave Buckett, Len Mitton, Barrie Evans 18-23
Peter Christmas, Pat Walker, Mick Lovejoy, Bill Blackmore 19-14
Francis Benham, Gordon Orchard, Wendy Cross, Roger Worth 21-13
Angie Main, Pat Main, David Bullock, Graham Kennedy 29-10
Pat Steel, John Snook, Edna Orchard, Barry Lambourne 19-12

On Thursday Shiplake men played the first round of the ODBL cup away against Witney Mills. The men hoped to reproduce the form that had given them a good win in the preliminary round. In this competition it’s the shots difference that counts and although both teams won on two rinks Shiplake go on to the next round. They scored 67 shots against the opposition’s 58.
Shiplake scores:
John Chamberlain, Trevor Beaumont, Graham Kennedy, Ryan Buckett 20-11
Joe Wylie, Iain Robinson, David Bullock, Allen Newbury 16-17
Peter Christmas, Bill Blackmore, Eddie Goddard, Barrie Evans 10-17
Francis Benham, Peter Higgs, Roger Worth, Barry Lambourne 21-13.

On Saturday Shiplake travelled to Harwell for their third MUL game. After a close game Daphne Jacob’s triple picked up 4 shots on the final end to secure victory by 19 shots to 15. Barry Lambourne’s triple came from behind, conceding just one shot in the last six ends to win 17-14. Final score 10 MUL points to 2.
Shiplake scores:
Mairwen West, Peter Christmas, Graham Kennedy 20-16
Val Beaumont, David Steel, Barry Lambourne 17-14
Simon Hastings, Trevor Beaumont, Daphne Jacob 19-15
Charlotte Jacob, Howard West, Barrie Evans 24-7
Joe Wylie, Wendy Cross, Allen Newbury 17-23.

Sunday’s game was at home against Abingdon, a club new to the fixture list last year and paying their first visit to Shiplake. Playing on the captain’s rink, Ann Clark and Paula Benham’s contribution to their rink’s victory merited special mention by the visiting captain in her after match speech. The result was a convincing win for Shiplake by 123 shots to 77.
Shiplake scores:
Ann Cox, Pat Steel, Francis Benham, David Webb 25-22
Val Beard, Sonia Higgs, Pat Main, Len Mitton 22-18
Ann Clark, Paula Benham, Bob Beard, Wendy Cross, 27-12
Angie Main, Sonia Stretch, Peter Higgs, Bryan Clark 32-8
Jean Webb, Terry Auger, David Buckett, Les Redding 17-17

1 May

On Tuesday 16 Shiplake men travelled to West Witney for an ODBL cup match. The chance of progressing to the next round seemed slim – they had been drawn away for this preliminary round against a team that reached the final last year. However the men rose to the challenge and won the match by a margin of 5 shots.
Shiplake scores:
Bill Blackmore, Len Mitton, Eddie Goddard, Barrie Evans 13-16
Joe Wylie, Pat Main, Iain Robinson, Alan Newbury 18-14
John Chamberlain David Steel, David Bullock, Trevor Beaumont 13-17
Francis Benham, Peter Higgs, Roger Worth, Barry Lambourne 24-16

On Wednesday Shiplake went to Palmer Park for their first Manchester Unity League match. On four rinks Shiplake led from the start, with the triple skipped by Bill Blackmore achieving the best result. The final score was 86 shots to 66, and 10 MUL points for Shiplake, two for Palmer Park.
Shiplake scores:
Val Beaumont, Alan Newbury, Barrie Evans 16-13
Peter Christmas, Wendy Cross, Ryan Buckett 17-11
Helen Robinson, David Bullock, Bill Blackmore 21-11
Val Beard, David Steel, Daphne Jacob 18-9
Francis Benham, Edna Orchard, Iain Robinson 14-22

On Saturday Shiplake, with vice-captain David Steele in charge, played host to Great Hollands in a six rink friendly game. Bryan Clark, with Charlotte Jacob, Pat Main and Edna Orchard, achieved the highest score of the day. The rink skipped by Val Beaumont had a commanding lead at 13 ends, and despite a strong comeback by the opposition, held on to win by 1 shot. Shiplake won the match by 143 shots to 115.
Shiplake scores:
Ann Cox, Peter Higgs, Les Redding, Val Beaumont 21-20
Sylvia Blackmore, Sonia Higgs, David Steel, Peter Christmas 21-18
Sonia Stretch, Dave Buckett, Eddie Goddard, Alan Newbury 24-16
Pat Steel, Terry Auger, Ann Clark, Bill Blackmore 20-22
Angie Main, Max Jacob, Joe Wylie, Trevor Beaumont 19-27
Charlotte Jacob, Pat Main, Edna Orchard, Bryan Clark 37-12

Shiplake’s second MUL game was away again, versus the University of Reading. The University have won the league for the last 2 years and Shiplake were eager for a good result. Shiplake made a good start – winning the first end on all 5 rinks. But after that the game developed into a very close match – and on 3 rinks at 17 ends the result could have gone either way. The final score was a very close 91-87, and 8 MUL points to Shiplake, 4 to the University.
Shiplake scores:
Helen Robinson, David Bullock, Barry Lambourne 19-11
Peter Christmas, Phil Buckett, Daphne Jacob 21-19
Simon Hastings, Wendy Cross, Barrie Evans 15-16
Jean Buckett, Joe Wylie, Graham Kennedy 16-23
Mairwen West, Iain Robinson, Jim Bland 20-18

Shiplake is holding an Open Evening for prospective new members on Tuesday May 9 th, from 5pm to 8. More details from secretary Paula Benham, 0118 947 6453, or on the club’s website bowlsShiplake.com.

25 April

As the new bowling season starts Shiplake members are looking forward to a busy summer. A Shiplake member – David Bullock – is serving as Oxfordshire Bowling Association President this year – a great honour for the club. This will be marked by several county events to be held at Shiplake. The membership has been boosted this year by a number of bowlers from Stuarts, the Henley club that sadly closed at the end of last season.

Captain Wendy Cross was in charge of the first match of the season, which took place on Saturday against Maiden Erlegh. It was a glorious sunny day which tempted out several spectators who were able to bask in the sunshine on the patio whilst watching an entertaining game. Iain Robinson, supported by Sylvia Blackmore, Peter Cross and Joe Wylie, built up a commanding lead of 18 shots to 2, then allowed the opposition to come back to 18-10, before getting back into their stride and finishing with the best score of the day. Alan Newbury’s rink battled to keep in touch until the 16 th end, after which the opposition failed to score and final score was 20-13. Shiplake won on 4 rinks and the final score was 103 shots to 77.
Shiplake scores:
Helen Robinson, Sonia Stretch, Len Mitton, Alan Newbury 20-13
Val Beaumont, Pat Walker, Bob Beard, Mick Lovejoy 19-23
Val Beard, Peter White, Wendy Cross, Bill Blackmore 18-17
Vera Harris, Trevor Beaumont, Edna Orchard, Barry Lambourne 21-13
Sylvia Blackmore, Peter Cross, Joe Wylie, Iain Robinson 25-11

The sun didn’t shine for Sunday’s match against Caversham, who Shiplake played on the last weekend of the 2005 season, when the weather was considerably better. Two former Stuarts ladies featured in two impressive wins. Daphne Jacob led her rink of Mairwen West, Peter Higgs and Les Redding to a 29-8 victory whilst her granddaughter Charlotte Jacob led in Howard West’s rink, which won 32-4. Caversham are now playing in the Plomer Cup and the win of 119 shots to 62 also set Shiplake off to a good start in the cup with 10 points to Caversham’s two.
Shiplake scores:
Mairwen West, Peter Higgs, Les Redding, Daphne Jacob 29-8
Charlotte Jacob, Ann Cox, Pat Main, Howard West 32-4
Pat Steel, Terry Auger, Eddie Goddard, Barrie Evans 21-12
Jackie Stafford, Max Jacob, Bill Blackmore, David Steel 20-15
Angie Main, John Snook, Dave Buckett, Peter Christmas 17-23

Press reports 2005
Press reports 2004