‘Mistakes have been made’ - Shropshire have double vote for crisis meeting

Shropshire will have two votes in tomorrow’s make-or-break meeting of the crisis-hit British Crown Green Bowling Association.

The future of the sport’s governing body goes on the line at a Special General Meeting at the Walkers Club in Warrington, called to try and answer waves of criticism over the running of the organisation.

Shropshire association officers discussed the emergency at an executive meeting last weekend, after which a worried county chairman Phil Scott said: “The clear consensus from the room was to support the current Board's proposals (for a way forward).

“There is still much to discuss at Saturday's special meeting, and it is inevitable that there will be differing opinions.

“However, unless the sport genuinely wants a permanent split, it is vital that everyone attending listens carefully focuses on the future - rather than dwelling on the past.

“Mistakes have undoubtedly been made on both sides - and in some cases significant mistakes – and change is never easy.”

But Scott admitted to fears for the future, adding: “Those attending tomorrow need to consider carefully the damage that is already being caused to the sport.

“The decisions made could have consequences that last for many years. If events unfold as many expect, there may be no easy route back.

“One side is focused on the wider governance, development and long-term sustainability of the sport, while the other side appears to place greater emphasis on competitions, tradition and maintaining structures that have existed for many years.

“Both viewpoints have value, but neither can secure the future of crown green bowling in isolation

“If responsibility, respect and common sense prevail, there is still an opportunity to build a stronger future. If not, there is a real risk of creating a divide that may take years, if not decades, to repair.”

A two-thirds majority is needed to get the Board's proposals approved - and with the BCGBA's affiliated counties split down the middle, it really is crunch time.

North Shropshire

Adderley and Malpas Sports will have that champion feeling tonight as the North Shropshire bowls association hosts a record presentation evening.

They edged thrilling first division championship races in the Whitchuch and Market Drayton leagues respectively and so will be int he spotlight at the Hill Valley Hotel.

“We have 186 people attending the event, the highest we have had in many years,” said happy Leah Marshall, secretary of the body that was launched just two years ago to run both evening leagues. “Attendees will enjoy a three-course meal with entertainment from local artist followed by the presentation.

“It will be a lovely evening to celebrate the success of all and a lot of work has gone into this event, hoping it will be the best one yet and that Hill Valley can be our venue for many years to come.”

Wraight heads north

Bandit Bowls promotions go on the back burner for Shropshire No.1 Callum Wraight this weekend as he heads north aiming for big prize money.

A one-day invitation 32 with a £400 top cheque is his target tomorrow at Golborne in Wigan with Yorkshire stars Chris and Josh Mordue looking to be his biggest threats in the line-up.

The Castlefields 40-year-old joins more coveted company 24 hours later close by at the Red Lion, West Houghton, Bolton - the home of the British Panel.

That’s where a big name invitation 16 includes the likes of great open circuit rivals Simon Coupe, Wayne Ditchfield and Kevan Shaw, plus many local stars.

Meanwhile, the BB programme sees the usual one-dayer tomorrow at Allscott Heath (9am start, £15 entry) while round seven of the winter series with 13-up round robin games is at Meole Brace on Sunday with sessions starting at 9am and 1.30pm, entries costing £10.