President's hopes for county bowling's big day

The president aims to reign as king on the biggest day of the Shropshire bowling calender next month, writes JAMES GARRISON.

County president Alan Mayhew has become one of the first bowlers to reach the Shropshire Merit finals while holding the most senior position.

And the Castlefields ace, winner of the prestigious title back in 1983, is ecstatic to have reached the elite field of 32 heading to Bicton on Sunday, June 27.

"I'm thrilled to be there in my year as president," said Mayhew, who came through qualifying with two victories at Severnside No 3 green in Shrewsbury on Sunday.

"I'm not sure whether anybody has got to the finals before while they have been president – maybe Dick Meyrick did it.

"I've been to finals day six or seven times and it's always special.

"It's a big honour to do it in my time as president but it's a shame a lot better players have been knocked out and that has-beens like me have got through.

"Hopefully I can win a couple of games but I will need some luck with the draw."

While Mayhew – now 58 – will be one of the big outsiders for glory, there is no doubting his desire to be at Bicton as both dignitary and player.

He was due to have a leg operation two days before the final – but that will now be cancelled.