Bournemouth Trip - great fun
Firstly - a huge thanks to Vicky and Charlie for organising such a fantastic trip - the first that the Club has done for many years. There were 37 of us that were treated to a mini break in a lovely part of the country and all enjoyed a fun and entertaining few days away .... and we even managed to fit in three matches. We had time in the mornings to explore the area and time in the afternoons to make new friends at Poole Park, Brockenhurst and Bournemouth Clubs - unfortunately losing in all three matches - but what an experience and we still enjoyed ourselves.
The package included transport, accommodation and food - but we managed to find the drink ourselves at the bar 
. The 3 star hotel was very central and some of us were lucky with some nice views.
We had 24 playing in each of the three matches - so team selections were made so that everyone played at least once. We all looked smart in whites with our new Club shirts.
All of the Clubs were very welcoming and had some lovely greens - two of them even had two greens - nice to have that space. We put up a good effort with our bowls - but were beaten on nearly all rinks. We still had fun and there was always a bit of banter whilst playing - but a lot more back in their Clubhouses.
Tea and biscuits were followed by thanks (and the obligatory raffle - we even won some!!) - some more formal than others. We were also treated to a drink at the bar and socialising followed ........ but then it was soon back to the hotel for evening's food and entertainment.
We were lucky to have entertainment provided on two nights at the hotel - the last night we were invited down to the hotel where Sutton Bowling Club were staying and joined in their evening. The Singers were very good on all three nights and we probably put more energy into our dancing than bowling ..... We certainly enjoyed ourselves and friendships were cemented.
This trip was more than a bowls tour - it was getting to know each other better and celebrating the camaraderie we have at Dorking Bowls.
And then it was back home - but first we had to make sure that Martin remembered all of his belongings .......
