Banned bowler fights on

The man at the centre of a Shropshire bowling storm has vowed not to play the sport in the county again if his ban for 2010 is not overturned.

And Calverhall chairman Alan Ratcliffe believes other bowlers could follow suit if his appeal fails.

Ratcliffe continues to face a 12-month suspension, along with fellow club member John Wynn, after a special meeting of the county executive this week confirmed the bans and Calverhall's £250 fine.

Calverhall found themselves in the dock after running an open doubles - as part of the village's Fun Day - on the day Shropshire won the Crosfield Cup, after being refused permission by the Shropshire association.

But Ratcliffe remains determined to see through his appeal - and has promised strong action if he is unsuccessful.

"If I'm banned, it will be the end of me as a bowler in Shropshire," revealed Ratcliffe, who is remaining tight-lipped over his defence.

"And, looking at the feeling, I think there may be a few more that follow."

Ratcliffe has been encouraged by the "amazing" support he has received - both at a recent Whitchurch League meeting and via letters to the British Crown Green Bowling Association, who are due to hear his appeal.

But Ratcliffe has no idea when or where that appeal will be heard, having received no contact from the BCGBA since filing his complaint four weeks ago.