Forres Bowling Club open their green for the first time to roll out new season with President’s versus Vice-President’s team clash

Forres Bowling Club President, Alex Porter, welcomed around 60 members and guests to the club's 2024 green opening, and was delighted to see some potential new members present.

A total of 51 players took part in the annual President versus Vice-President match, with some playing just eight ends to allow others the opportunity to participate.

The first jack of the season was delivered by the club's youngest current member, ten-year-old Charley Dustan.

The President's team won four of the six ties as his side emerged with a 105-76 victory.

The top rink of the day was that of Davie Petrie, Struan Porter, Willie Robertson and Paul Coutts. They scored a six and a seven as they showed Neil Ogilvie no mercy in a 28-9 victory for the President's team.

Paul Rogan also hit a six to take a 13-2 advantage over Lindsey Petrie. Their tie finished 21-9 in Rogan's favour.

Winning all but one of the initial seven ends put Dean Dobbs 12-1 up on the Forres men's champion, Gary Mackie. Mackie improved thereafter, but was unable to prevent a 22-12 defeat.

Jutta Hewett also won six of the first seven ends to lead John Smith 10-2, and eventually strike a first victory for the vice-president,15-8.

Forres Vice-President, Brian Caldwell, took advantage of the poor play of his counterpart to lead 10-2 after nine ends. A fightback from Alex Porter narrowed the scoreline to 9-11, before Caldwell saw the game out 15-9.

John Ross held a comfortable 17-7 lead over John Matthews in 13 ends, before Matthews won the final three ends and just miss out 16-17.

Always interested in promoting the sport and their club, Forres Bowling Club are hosting 'Taster Sessions' from 2pm to 4pm this coming Saturday and Sunday. Anyone interested in giving the game a try should contact Alex Porter on 07876 684203 or email portergeist2607@hotmail.com.