Calverhall confusion 'won't be tolerated'
An attempt to "avoid a repeat" of the Calverhall controversy which tarnished Shropshire bowls in 2009 has been launched, writes JAMES GARRISON.
Representatives of the Whitchurch League have tabled a motion for all open competitions in the county to be given the go-ahead, providing two weeks notice is given and a £5 payment made by the organising club.
The current by-law states open competitions must be given consent from the Shropshire Crown Green Bowling Association before it can go ahead.
"This proposal is a direct result of what happened with Calverhall," said Whitchurch League president Peter Williams.
The Whitchurch League have forwarded the proposal after Calverhall were punished for holding their traditional family doubles competition last September.
The event was held in conjunction with the north Shropshire village's fun day - but coincided with Shropshire defeating Yorkshire to become national champions.
SCGBA originally banned two Calverhall officials - chairman Alan Ratcliffe and John Wynn - from bowling activity for 12 months and fined the club £250.
But British Crown Green Bowling Association officials labelled those punishments "excessive" at an appeal hearing, with Ratcliffe being cleared and the fine reduced to £25.
"There was a very strong feeling at the last two Whitchurch League executive meetings that SCGBA had been heavy handed and we didn't want a repeat of Calverhall," added Williams
The motion will be voted on at the SCGBA annual meeting on Monday, February 1, at Reman Services in Shrewsbury.
