Same again as Lawson takes title
It wasn't just Rich Lawson who was celebrating on County Handicap day – Chris Elsbury had plenty of reason to smile too.
For while Bowring skipper Lawson was retaining the main trophy with another super showing, Hadnall bowler Elsbury received the Clare Cup after being declared the best newcomer on the day.
"He was adjudged to receive the trophy as he had qualified for the final stages," said referee Mike Potter.
"Chris turned back the clock as he recently took up the game again following a break of 14 years through work and family commitments." An entry of 68 on a warm day was up 14 on last year. But it was the same story as in 2015 with Lawson coming out on top.
He beat the last man to retain the Handicap title, Michael Beer of Castlefields, 21-17 in a final lasting 36 ends on Old Shrewsbury No.1, going deep into the corners to get out from 14 across after leading 12-5.
Lawson had defeated county No.1 Callum Wraight 21-19 in a last eight that featured three Castlefields men, while two north Shropshire bowlers proudly made the semi-finals.
Semi-final scores: Lawson 21 Gary Whitehall (Adderley) 19, Beer 21 Cedric Bancroft (Woore) 13.
