THORPE'S bowlers played their opening Windsor League match at Happy Valley.

On an ideal day in terms of weather, they were successful on three rinks and took eight points out of the ten available.

Results: Will Cole, Kenny Kendrick, Al Baxter 29-8; Derek Bailey, Robin Smith, Terry Smart 20-12; Brian Smith, Bob Clifford, Barry Day 16-13; Ron Kettle, Kevin Cooper, Ray Knight 18-20.

Meanwhile, Thorpe's Stanford League team travelled to Brightlingsea for their first game of the season in fairly dismal conditions and were held to a 4-4 draw.

Results: Will Cole, Malcolm Wakelin, Bill Baines, Roy Knight 20-19; Dennis Willoughby, Bob Clifford, Barry Day, Dave Sullivan 14-23; Terry Greenwald, Derek Bailey, Alan Clark, Terry Smart 18-16.

The Premier League team were at home on a perfect green but with not such good weather conditions.

Unfortunately, it took its toll and a heavy defeat was encountered as all eight points went to Dovercourt.

Results: Chris Haygreen, Mike Oakley, Mick Dutfield, Peter Ayling 20-26; Ken Rice, John Ward, Brian Hopkins, Mark Hale 14-18; Stuart Walsh, Colin Barker, Alan Baxter, Roger Hopgood 13-25.

Thorpe held their annual ladies v gentlemen game in slightly lower temperatures than would have been ideal and with the occasional shower.

However, it did not dampen spirits and with skill and determination, the ladies triumphed over the gentlemen, as they do every year.

The bowling was followed by a buffet and cream tea in the clubhouse.