AT THE beginning of last season, local girl Saskia Hunt joined Hemyock Bowling Club as a 16-year-old college student, choosing to do lawn bowling as the physical component of her Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award.

Other than a few fun sessions with her grandfather who bowls for Tiverton West End, she had done no serious bowling previously.

She achieved her Gold Award with no problems, and was presented with her certificate by Prince Edward at Buckingham Palace.

Having enjoyed bowling in her first year, Hemyock were delighted when she rejoined the club this year.

Telling almost no one in the club, she quietly entered the Devon County Ladies Under 25 championships, where she won through to be a finalist. Both finalists are automatically entered into the National Bowling Championships at Leamington Spa, and so, having just reached her 18th birthday, she will represent Devon, and Hemyock. Naturally, the Hemyock club will be following her progress.

In addition to Saskia, the Devon club are delighted to have a 12-year-old girl playing for them in friendlies, and Saskia’s younger sister is now also an enthusiast. All this goes to prove that bowls is a sport for all ages, and all are welcome. If any other young people would like to bowl as part of their DoE experience the club would love to welcome them.

The club cannot hide the fact that with some regulars out of action for medical reasons, and others struggling with the demands of work and family obligations.

Consequently the club has launched a drive for new members and would love to see anyone interested in bowling on any Friday evening Club Night, No experience is needed and free coaching is available.

A warm welcome is guaranteed, and what better way to spend a warm summer evening, enjoying a drink from the bar, and getting some easy paced exercise.