End of Wisbech 40-year era of Metal Box and CMB bowlers at farewell to Railway Road green

At the end of a 40-year era of Metal Box and CMB, the club members held their final club championship and farewell party at their Railway Road green.

They will be reborn, sharing with March Town Bowls Club, next year as Black Cat Bowls Club.

Founder members from 1978, Pete Haddon, Terry Slade, Cyril Betts, Terry Semper and John Fox, were present throughout the day and Pete Haddon presented the trophies along with chairman Mel Joyce.

Results of the finals were – Triples: Mel Joyce, Sue Tolliday, Andy McEwan 25 v Rob Bonello, Allen Richardson, Lyn Humphreys 7; Men 2w singles: Matthew Fox 21 v Mel Joyce 20; Ladies 2w singles: Jane Carter 21 v Sue Norman 6; Ladies 4w singles: Sue Norman 21 v Lyn Humphreys 20; Open 4w singles: Matt Hewitt 21 v Paul Bennett 7.

Pairs (Australian rules): Willie Wood & John Fox 20 v Jock Findley & Mel Joyce 14. Ray Hill: Paul Bennett 2 sets v Angela Osborne 0 sets.

Banks player of season: Ken Brighty.

Player of the season: Andy McEwan.

The club stated: “Extreme thanks to Mel Joyce, John and Nancy Fox for organising the finals and barbecue and competition secretary Matt Hewitt for organising the games.

“Thanks to Barbara Joyce for organising the ‘crab’ for a bottle of Grant’s whisky which was won by founder Terry Slade’s niece from Australia, raising £55.

“A £50 donation from Newton BC for the Les Howard tournament which unfortunately had to be cancelled, was matched by a £50 donation from CMB BC and the £155 will go to Alan Hudson Day Centre, Wisbech.

“CMB BC say a very sad farewell but are very positive and look forward to their green share with March Town BC in 2020 as Black Cat Bowls Club.”

If you are interested in joining the Black Cat BC, please contact secretary Paul Bennett on 01945 480857.