DOVERCOURT Outside Bowling Club started the summer season with their traditional opening game, between the Captain and President's teams.

Forty-eight players were involved and they all wore their new club shirts, sponsored by East of England Co-op.

The Co-op's Maria Leach (area manager) and Sam Tye (local branch manager) came along as guests of honour and the final result was a victory for the Captain's team.

The groundsman had been worried by the condition of the green after all the recent rain.

However, the warm and sunny week preceding the game meant a last cut of the grass could be made on the morning of the game and the rink was in very good condition.

Afterwards a ploughman’s tea was served with homemade cakes supplied by club members.