2024 Season Summary

At the start of the year, during the winter period it was good to see members having the opportunity to meet up at the social gatherings, held on the first Saturday of each month and the Clubhouse being used for mid-week whist drives, Both these events were organised by President Ann Kelly and raised substantial revenue for Club funds.

The Bowling season did not start well however with some 25% of our members not renewing their subscription. Among these were a number of long duration members including George Bennet, Gordon & Jan Harris, Kath Sully, Freda Thompson and Cyril Wilcox. The resignation of most of these was due to infirmity or illness.  Our attempts to recruit new members was somewhat frustrated at the start of the season due to the unseasonal wet and cold conditions. As the season progressed however, we were able to attract a number of new members with the final number of members just below 50 at end of season.

The Working Group continued to operate throughout the year with the buildings and surrounds being in pristine condition at the start of the season, thanks to their efforts. Despite the adverse weather conditions, early year, the Green bowled well from the outset and received favourable comment from visiting teams throughout the bowling season. The Club again hosted the final of the Wessex Friendly Mixed Fours League In itself, testament to the quality of the Green.

In his first year as Club Captain, Toby Strang found the job challenging in the early part of the season with loss of numbers and members reluctant to make themselves available for matches, particularly in the Men’s County League. The situation eased as the season progressed and the weather improved. Ladies Captain, Ann suffered mobility problems for most of the season and the Club much appreciated the support given to her by Vice Captain, Audrey Pilkington. Overall Somerton finished 7th (out of 11) in the Wessex Friendly League, 4th (out of 9) in the South West Somerset ladies League and 7th (out of 11) In Division 1 of the South-West Men’s County League.

The Club Competitions proceeded smoothly again this year, thanks to the good offices of Competition Secretary, Ray Kelly. Congratulations to Dave & Mary Sutton who again won the primary singles competitions between them.  Details of the respective winners and runners up are posted on the Club’s website. The Presentation evening was again held at the ‘Club at Somerton’ being enjoyed by all those in attendance.

Towards the end of the year, Club members were shocked at the sudden death of our Chairman, Phil Catlin. Phil had been Chaiman for the past eight years and dedicated a great deal of his time in supporting the activities of the Club. We also recently learned of the passing of Bill Davey who was a club member for ten years during the early 2000’s.

Finally, the Club AGM was held in November, at which a motion was passed to revise the composition of the Management Committee. Notably John McFarlane did not apply for re-election as Treasurer having served in that post for over 20 years. The Club did receive a full set of nominations for the respective Officer positions and with a new Chairman (Dave Forsyth) and Treasurer (Myf Ashton) we are well placed to address the challenges and opportunities that no doubt will arise next year.