Farmer's super run is halted

Shropshire's record-breaking crown green bowler has finally been beaten in the County Merit.

Peter Farmer has won the Shropshire Star-backed title for the last three years, but his history-making run was ended yesterday.

The Market Drayton postman, who plays for Premier League champions St Georges, lost in his qualifying game at Coddon.

And the man who brought the sensational run of the four-time Merit winner to an end was Rob Jones of Wrockwardine Wood.

His form has been a revelation since giving up the captaincy of the Wrockites - and he proved the point by beating Farmer 21-19.

"I had a big lead and was 20-13 up - but you don't beat Peter Farmer easily," said a delighted Jones, who works for Lyreco in Telford.

"I was just pleased to qualify for the finals of the County Merit because it is such a big tournament, but to beat Peter with his record was fantastic for me."

By Malcolm Fletcher