Spalding Indoor Bowls Club will play host to some of Britain’s best bowlers when the Open Singles Circuit rolls into South Holland over the festive period.
The circuit comprises of numerous open singles tournaments across the country, with prize money and ranking points on offer.
Spalding IBC, who host the annual Spalding Open at the town’s Castle Sports Complex on Albion Street, will welcome current world number one Nicky Brett, from Ely, and former world champion Billy Jackson (Lincoln) to their event this year.
The current world number 13, 15 and 18 will also be in action, as well as a host of other international players and local talent.
Spalding bowlers include current international and club captain Graham Smith, junior international Jordan Philpott and England trialist Martin Spencer, all of whom are in action on the first night.
Play will commence at 6pm on Sunday, December 27 with two sessions of play, before a full day’s play on Monday, December 28 (from 8am).
The final will be held around 9pm, with all matches played to a sets format.
There is free entry on both days, so sports fans in the district are encouraged to attend what is sure to be a real feast of action.
This year’s open has generously sponsored by Hughes Electrical.
Last year’s event was won by Ely ace Brett, who came from a set down to beat the impressive Keith Renwick in a high-quality final.
- Spalding IBC’s friendly bowlers were on fine for as they played host to a team from the Peterborough Conservatives.
Although the Peterborough team fought well throughout the match, Spalding went from strength to strength and finally closed the game by winning on all rinks – and with a hefty 65-shot advantage.
The winning rink honours for Spalding went to the team of Chris Broughton, Colin Taylor and skip Roger Perkins who was also team captain on the day.
- Spalding IBC’s over-60s team secured an excellent victory at Stamford in their latest Lincolnshire League Division One game.
The match was very close throughout, with Spalding only one shot ahead after five ends and two shots ahead at ten ends.
It was there that Spalding slowly built a lead to finish 13 shots ahead, winning 91-78.
Spalding won on three rinks, taking 14 of the 18 points on offer.
Spalding’s best rink was skipped by Steve Buffery, ably assisted by Eric Wakefield, Pete Allen and Phil Beeken.
Captain for the day was David Lunn assisted by Mike Taylor.
