Return match for councillors and bowls club players

TOWN councillors joined members of Henley Bowls Club at their annual friendly match.

The event took place at the club’s green in Mill Meadows, which is owned by the council.

Players were sorted into four mixed teams comprising both councillors and club members and then played 12 ends on two rinks.

Mayor Sarah Miller played several ends in her mayoral chain before taking it off because it was too heavy.

Councillor Kellie Hinton said: “I try to come most years. The matches are always very friendly, fun and casual and anyone of any ability can play.

“I want to organise a town council versus the bowls club match at the adventure golf next door.” Club chairman Sally Daniells said: “Down here all your stress just disappears. We are in a beautiful location by river, next to the bandstand and the park.

“We always make a point of opening the gate to the green so that members of the public can sit and enjoy the games.”

Co-secretary Jeanie Davis said: “I have been playing for 10 years now — I love it.

“It’s just lovely playing and being outside. It’s great exercise and bowling is competitive as well.”

The club, which has 80 members, is currently the top of both the Oddfellows Triples League and Plomer Cup League.

Mrs Daniells said: “We are just one big family and we all look out for each other, even when members stop bowling.”

After the match, all the players enjoyed fish and chips together in the clubhouse.