Trophy time for Wrockwardine Wood's history-makers

The Telford club became only the second in the 21-year history of the competition to win the eight-a-side title three times in a row.

British Ladies president Sue Todd presented the trophy to Louise Cotton at the governing body’s ladies Christmas prize-giving lunch on Saturday at the Village Hotel in Whiston, Liverpool.

And it was an extra special occasion as the silver salver trophy is named after late Wrockwardine Wood legend Eileen Hinton, who had a lengthy spell as British Ladies association chairwoman.

The Wrockites matched the hat-trick feat of Yorkshire’s New Mill between 2014 and 2016 by beating Dearne Sports by seven shots in September’s final at Cleckheaton in Yorkshire, led by skipper Natalia Moseley.

It was a stunning seventh time Wood had triumphed in an event that was launched in 2003.

Meanwhile, there may be a shortage of active bowls referees in Shropshire, but those who help make the laws will be out in force on Saturday.

The county will be sending four delegates to the British Referees Society’s AGM at Winnington Park in Northwich, where secretary David Williams will oversee proceedings.

Williams led a well attended seminar organised by the Shropshire Referees Society at Tilstock earlier this year – and is poised to return for another early next year.

“Due to the success of the seminar with David Williams, and a few changes to rules, we would like to repeat this before the 2025 season starts and this time in the Telford area,” said Shropshire society secretary-treasurer Louise Cotton.

“Four Shropshire referees will be attending the British AGM on December 7 and we are always looking for those wishing to progress to complete their referee exams.”

• The one-day competitions run by Bandit Bowls are due to return for the first time since November 16 at the Sir John Bayley Club tomorrow (9am start, £12 entry for round robin and knockout ties) – weather permitting.