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  Latest Buntingford Bowls Club News

17th September - All results from Club Finals Day 2019 have been added to the Member Profiles section of the website.

14th September - Today was the last home weekend friendly of this season, Captain v Captain.  6 triples saw every rink in use, 36 players in all enjoying the September sunshine.  Lots of merriment, high jinks and dubious behaviour saw the gentlemen defeat the ladies.  Many thanks to all those who made this so enjoyable.  To Eddie and his band of merry helpers for providing us with an excellent meal, all those that helped make our club look spectacular, even at the end of the season.

4th September - Final EHBL tables show Buntingford Bears finishing in 6th place of division one, and the Buntingford Bulls narrowly missing out on promotion by finishing 3rd in division three. Well done to everyone who played throughout the year.

3rd September - Ross Murphy and Tony Keeling will play in the finals of the EHBL pairs competition on Sunday 8th September, starting at 10am at Welwyn & District Bowls Club. Ross Murphy will also play in the final of the singles at 1pm. Ross Murphy, Dave Murphy, Mark Plume and Gary Warrender will also contest the fours at 3pm. Please go along and support our club members in these finals!

29th August - Ross Murphy won the first round of the National Men's 2 Wood Singles Competition in Leamington. He beat Stuart Holland from Spartan & Lakeside 14-7. Unfortunately, Ross lost the second round of the competition to Dave Love from Wellingborough 14-10. An excellent achievement to make it that far. Thank you to all of the club members that went up to support him too!

28th August - Two Buntingford ladies have contested the semi final of the EHDWBA Millennium singles in a very hard fought match.
Roxana Clifton took an early lead of 18-2 only to be pegged back by Grace Gibbs, the final score being Roxana 21 Grace 16.
Good luck to Roxana in the final on Tuesday 10th September at Hoddesdon Rosehill Bowls Club.

26th August - Mad dogs, Englishmen and Bunty bowlers go out in the midday sun...  28 intrepid souls competed in very hot conditions for the annual Aussie Pairs competition.  The winners were Chris Hatley & Brian Bushell.  Thanks to everyone who made this event happen.

24th August - Debbie Marks, Gwen Beale, Ellen Amos & Roxy Clifton finished a commendable third in this year's Rosehill Gala.

19th August - The latest EHBL tables show both the Buntingford Bears and the Buntingford Bulls in 3rd place in their respective divisions. Well done to both teams so far!

6th August - Tony Keeling, Dave Murphy, Vic Greenberg and Bryan Davies have won the first round of the Senior Fours at Leamington! They were 4 up going into the final end, where they then dropped a 3. The team won with an extremely close score of 16-15. They will play the second round on 7th August, in front of many supporters from the club. Good luck and we'll hopefully see the trophy being brought home!

6th August - Ladies Gala Day was an oustanding success. 22 teams battled for the title of 2019 champions. The overall winners of the day were Rosehill, closely followed by Bishops Stortford and Riverain A in second and third places. Lots of money was raised for the club and everyone had a great time. Thank you to everybody that helped make the day run as smoothly as it did!




5th August - Roxanna Clifton is through to the semi-final of the Millenium cup. She will play the winner of Grace Gibb's quarter-final being played on 7th August. Good luck to both in the rest of the competition.

4th August - Buntingford have won the Eversley cup. Three Fours played Welwyn Garden City in the morning and advanced to play Garston in the finals in the afternoon. Well done to all that represented the club!

31st July - Chris Hatley, Val Moules and Dinah Geere have gone through to the semi final of the EHDWBA triples competition, having beaten a team from Hertford. The score of 7 late on in the game was the turning point.
Good luck in the next game.

29th July -  

Fancy playing something different? 

Fancy wearing something different?

28th July - Ross Murphy has won the Mens County 2 Wood Singles Competition, with an incredibly close score of 16-15, against a player from Garston. Good luck to Ross up in Leamington- His games will take place on Tuesday 27th August. Please head up to support if you can!
 
25th July - Latest EHBL tables show the Buntingford Bears take up 8th position in division one, and the Buntingford Bulls coming an incredible second place in division three - Fingers crossed for promotion!

24th July - The rink of Pete Warren, Vic Greenburg, Scott Wake and Carl Frostick scored a 'double hotshot' in the county league on Tuesday night against a decent side from Datchworth. Extremely rare to get an 8, let alone two in the same game!
We eventually won 32-16 and our other rink (Ross Murphy, Bryan Davies, Dave Murphy and Tony Keeling) won 28-14.

23rd July - A message from our president...

July 6th was Club Presidents Day - 36 members of the club played 2 different games of bowls but not as we know it!
The first game was played with 2 jacks and the second game was played without a jack until the head had been created. Great fun was had by all especially when it came to scoring!

The overall points winner was Roseanne Bantick.

A lovely meal from the kitchen team led by Roxana finished
off the day. There was a spectacular raffle, a spider and scratch cards
for everyone.

The grand sum of £428.00 was raised on the day and this
together with the money raised at last year’s event gave a
total of £1028.00 to donate to Macmillam Nurses.

Thanks to all who helped out on the day and made it so
successful.

22nd July - Bryan Davies, Vic Greenberg, Dave Murphy and Tony Keeling have won the senior 4s with a good display of bowls against a Garston 4. They now go to Leamington on 6th August where their first round is against a Wiltshire 4. They have to win 5 games over 3 days to become National champions. Hotel is booked, why not pop up and support them, Leamington is a fabulous experience!

20th July - 27 intrepid bowlers competed in the annual Fixed Jack competition, the result was very close with Bob Lowers & Mick Marks tying for third place, Dave Murphy just missing out on glory and finishing second and this year's winner was Brian Bushell by a nose.  John Collins won the Spider (it was a measure).  Many thanks to Rosemary Webber and her helpers for a lovely lunch, thanks to all those who provided raffle prizes.  A massive thank you to Phil Geere & Roger Evans who set out the rinks so expertly.  Next event is Aussie Pairs on August Bank Holiday Monday, the list is already up in the clubhouse.

Too many cooks didn't spoil the broth!

Sue Batchelor had two portions of the raspberry pie,
all labelled and waiting for her...

1













9th July - Ross Murphy won the Semi-Final of the County 2 Wood singles competition on the last end, 14-13. He will be in the final at Bishops Stortford on Sunday 28th July. It would be great to see many members supporting him at this event. Ross will also be heading to Leamington since he reached the county final! 

18th July - Sadly Dinah Geere has had to withdraw from the County Unbadged Competition semi final due to unforeseen circumstances.
She managed to win four rounds which was a great achievement this year.

16th July - Well done to Warwick Brown, John Collins & Mick Marks though to EHBL Triples quarter finals, after winning against a strong team from Shire Park on Monday 15th July.

13th/14th July - A historic moment, Bunty won BOTH of this weekend's friendlies. On Saturday 13th away against Cheshunt and on Sunday 14th at home to Allenbury's.

13th July - Latest EHBL tables see Buntingford Bears rise to 10th position in division one and the Buntingford Bears fall to 3rd in division three. 

10th July - Mark Plume and Dave Murphy march on in the FIFA 2 wood pairs beating Don Fox and partner 21-11.

4th July - Another great win for Dinah Geere going through to the semi finals of the Ladies County unbadged competition. She beat Laura Hay from Garston 21-20. Thank you to Dinah Geere for this update. 

2nd July - The 'Old Bunty Geezers', Bryan Davies, Vic Greenburg, Dave Murphy and Tony Keeling travelled to a very heavy Potters Bar for the senior fours quarter final against a Royston 4. After going down 9-0 in the first 4 ends and being behind the whole game, the bunty geezers picked up a 3 on the last end to win 17-16. The Semi-Final is next week at Welwyn against Mill End. Thank you to Dave Murphy for this update. 

29th June - Buntingford travelled to Rosedale on Saturday to play a friendly for the inaugural 'Oz Cup'. It was a very hot day and even though the captain of the day, Dave Murphy, lost his triple Buntingford won 80 shots to 72. Well done to all and thanks to Rosedale for an enjoyable game and good company. Thank you to Dave Murphy for this update. 

28th June - Roger Evans and Mike Hatley had a good win over a pair from Hertford Castle on a very hot and sultry day in the East Herts Bowls League Mens Pairs. On being 4 - 1 down after 4 ends, Roger decided to shorten the mat on the 5th end to great effects, with the Bunty pair winning 32 - 10  with the visitors shaking hands after 18 ends. Thank you to Mike Hatley for this update. 

8th June - Dinah Geere has made it through to the quarter finals of the County unbadged singles competition. An exceptional acheivement and possibly a first for the club too. Thanks to Dinah Geere for providing this update.

27th June - Greg Amos and Dave Murphy travelled to Whit Hern in the Bowls league pairs today and won 20-12. Thank you to Dave Murphy for this update.

27th June - After going behind 16-5 to a Bengeo 4, Ross Murphy, Dave Murphy, Mark Plume and Gary Warrender shortened the jack and went onto to win 25-18 in the Bowls league 4s.Thank you to Dave Murphy for this update.

26th June - Roger Evans, Mike Hatley, Tony Keeling and Carl Frostick had a good win over a strong team from Welwyn Garden City in the East Herts Bowls League Fours. After a slow start, the Bunty Boys took hold of the game after five ends to win 23 - 10  with the visitors shaking hands on 18 ends. Thank you to Mike Hatley for this update.

21st June - Latest EHBL tables show Buntingford Bears taking up 15th position in division one, and the Buntingford Bulls at 2nd place in division three.

16th June - Tony Keeling and Dave Murphy travelled to Sawbridgeworth on a Rainy, sunny, cold and warm day (no snow) and beat a Sawbridgeworth pair 21-19. A close match- the Bunty old boys dropped a 3 on the 20th end then got a 3 on the last end to draw, after Dave bowled the last wood taking the jack back. They won with a 2 on the extra end. Thank you to Dave Murphy for this update.

13th June - Vic Greenberg & Mark Plume beat Carl Frostick & Scott Wake in a high quality match in the County Pairs. There was nothing between them for much of the game with some outstanding bowls from all four players, and towards the end of the game Vic and Mark Pulled away to record the victory. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

13th June - Tony Keeling & Dave Murphy left it late to reach the next round of the County Pairs by picking up three shots on the last end at Hoddesdon & Rye Park. Well done lads. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

13th June - Hard luck to the Ladies of Debbie Marks & Roxana Clifton in their County Pairs match. After leading for much of the game they went into the last end leading by 4 shots – but dropped a 5 to head out of the competition. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

12th June - The county league 2 fours season got off to a solid start at Whithern, with the team winning 4 of the 6 points available. The rink with Peter Warren, Vic Greenberg, Scott Wake & Mark Plume overran their opposition with a thumping 46-10 victory. On a difficult rink, the team of Ross Murphy, Bryan Davies, Tony Keeling & Garry Warrender went down 16-23.
Well done lads, and thanks to team manager Roger Evans & Ellen and Greg Amos for braving the bed weather to support the team. Thank you to Vic Greenberg for this update.

12th June - Record tumbled as Buntingford’s Men won by a 43 shots in their Thurgood Cup match against Hertford. The match was shortened to a 15 end game because of the heavy rain, and they only played 14 ends before shaking hands. Ross Murphy, Dave Baxter, Dave Murphy & Carl Frostick won 28-6. Peter Warren, Vic Greenberg, Scott Wake & Mark Plume won 28-7. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

12th June - Bryan Davies has made it through to the last 16 of the County Unbadged Singles after defeating fellow club member Rick Brown.Thank you to Mark Plume for this update. 

11th June - Buntingford’s Men picked up 4 points in their first County League match of the season at a very heavy and interesting Whit Hern Green. Ross Murphy, Bryan Davies, Tony Keeling & Garry Warrender went down 16-23, but the rink of Peter Warren, Vic Greenberg, Scott Wake & Mark Plume secured a whopping 46-10 win! Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

11th June - County Singles wins for Carl Frostick against Dave Murphy, Garry Warrender against Mark Plume, Vic Greenberg against Ross Murphy, and a win for Tony Keeling sees 4 Buntingford players through to the Last 32 of the competition. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

10th June - On a windswept, wet & freezing evening, the 'old boys' 
consisting of Tony Keeling, Vic Greenberg, Dave Murphy & Brian Davies travelled to Batchwood Hall in St Albans and won 15-10 in the Men's Senior Fours. They now progress to the quarter finals at Potters Bar on 2nd July against either a team from Royston or Sawbridgeworth. Good luck to our boys! Thank you to Vic Greenberg for this update. 

9th June - Buntingford’s Men still can’t get past the second round of the Bowls England National Top Club competition after a 3-2 loss to Baldock. It all came down to the Fours match with the Bunty Boys holding 4 shots on the 20^th end, only for the opposing skip to get a piece of luck to reduce the deficit. The 21^st end didn’t go the lads way and Buntingford bowed out. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

9th June - Buntingford 1 lost by 5 shots to a strong team from Kings Langley in the Tony Allcock Trophy competition. Thank you to Dinah Geere for this update.

5th June - Comfortable wins in the County Pairs for Carl Frostick & Scott Wake, and Vic Greenberg & Mark Plume. Unfortunately for both pairs will now face each other in the next round! Tony Keeling & Dave Murphy also made it through to the next round.Thank you to Mark Plume for this update. 

5th June- Current EHBA League Tables see the Buntingford Bears take up 15th position in division one, and the Buntingford Bulls take up 11th place in division three. 

5th June - Dave Murphy beat Colin Dyer from Rosedale in the county singles last night. 21-8 . Thank you to Dave Murphy for this update.

4th June - 8 Buntingford players have made it through to the 3^rd Round of the County Singles which is the most there has ever been. Unfortunately now in round four, 6 of those players will now play against each other! Thank you to Mark Plume for this update. 

4th June - A new partnership between Mark Plume and Dave Murphy beat a pair from Herford in the EHBA 2 wood pairs.   25-10 . Thank you to Dave Murphy for this update.

3rd June - Nice to see new Members Dave Baxter and Dennis Beauchamp playing their first competitive match in a Buntingford shirt together. Both have recently joined the club from Cheshunt and came through their EHBA Pairs first round match with ease. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

3rd June - 7 down with 2 ends to play – no problem!?! Roxana Clifton & Bryan Davies were just that when they then went and picked up a 6 followed by a 4 to win by 3 shots in their EHBA Mixed Pairs match. It’s never over until it over……Thank you to Mark Plume for this update. 

2nd June - Buntingford’s Men came through a tricky tie at Stevenage in the National Club Two Fours. With the draw seeing Rinks 1 and 6 being played on the lads expected them to be the best two rinks – but they were far from that! One rink was 4-0 down and the other 10-3 down but both rinks recovered to win comfortably. Peter Warren, Vic Greenberg, Carl Frostick & Mark Plume won 22-13. Ross Murphy, Tony Keeling, Dave Murphy & Garry Warrender won 26-18. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update. 

1st June - The first game in the Middleton Cup match didn’t go Hertfordshire’s way as they were beaten 19 points to 3 against Cambridgeshire. Carl Frostick playing at three on his rink went down 29-14. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update. 

31st May - For those that like stats and facts, in the 5 Matches Buntingford’s Men have won in external competitions so far this year, they have won on 16 rinks, and lost none. A really great start to the season. Thank you to Vic Greenburg for this update.

31st May - Buntingford’s Men came through a tough encounter against Royston in the County Top Team competition. The Bunty Boys won all four matches to record a 4-0 win, but the match was tougher than the score line suggested. Well done to the Team of Peter Warren, Scott Wake, Mark Plume, Vic Greenberg, Carl Frostick, Garry Warrender, Dave Murphy, Tony Keeling, Ross Murphy & Bryan Davies. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update. 

31st May - Tony Keeling and Dave Murphy beat a Bishop's Stortford pair at home in the first round of the EHBA pairs. 23-11 . Thank you to Dave Murphy for this update.

29th May - Ross Murphy, Carl Frostick, Scott Wake & Mark Plume bowed out of the County Fours at the Quarter Final stage. Not a great rink to be playing on at Baldock and with the poor weather contributed to an under par performance from the lads. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update. 

27th May - The Hertfordshire Middleton Cup Team has been named for their first match against Cambridgeshire. Congratulations to Carl Frostick on his selection and this will be the first time he plays a ‘back-end’ position at this level as he is chosen to be playing three to Nick Muir. Peter Warren takes his plays as a reserve for the first game, and I’m sure it won’t be long until Peter is picked to play. All the best lads. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update. 

24th May - Buntingford’s Men came through against Whit Hern in the Hertfordshire County Club Championship (Eversley) winning on all 3 rinks. Thank you to Mark Plume for this udpate. 

23rd May - Buntingford’s only triple left in the County Triples Competition bowed out in the round of last 16 against a very strong Harpenden Team. Last year’s finalists Carl Frostick, Scott Wake & Mark Plume never really got going and found themselves 17-3 down at the half way stage. They battled back and got close but conceded the game on the last end. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

22nd May - A historic first as all 3 Buntingford Ladies left in the County Unbadged Singles competition have made it through to the Last 16. Roxana Clifton, Debbie Marks and Dinah Geere are still going strong and have put themselves in a great position to progress further. We wish the Bunty Belles all the very best. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

22nd May - On the same night as the Ladies, Buntingford’s Men had 4 players in the first round of the County Singles – and all 4 came through with ease. 8 Buntingford players will take to the green in Round Two.Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

21st May - A fantastic effort from Dave Clifton, Mick Grimsdale, Len Purdy and Greg Amos as they took their Middleton Cup opponents to the last end in the County Fours Last 16 clash. It wasn’t to be in the end but the lads have reached this stage of the competition for the very first time and can feel proud of their achievement. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update. 

21st May - Ross Murphy, Carl Frostick, Scott Wake & Mark Plume took on a very strong Royston four in their last 16 match of the County Fours and with some excellent bowling came through by 7 shots. Their Quarter Final match will be played at Baldock Bowls Club on Wednesday 29^th May. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

21st May - Congratulations to Peter Warren & Carl Frostick on their selection for the Hertfordshire Bowls Middleton Cup Squad. Carl has been a regular for a number of years now, but this is Peter’s first ever call up. 6 Buntingford members have played in the Middleton Cup in the past and Peter will add more history to the club if selected for the first match. Both players deserve their selection and we wish them all the very best. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

19th May - Buntingford’s Men had a very comfortable 5-0 victory against Hemel Hempstead in the National Top Club. This competition has not been very favourable for the Bunty Boys in the past as they have not gone further than the second round, but this impressive start put the lads on the right path to progress deep into the latter stages. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update. 

18th May - A great start for Buntingford in the National Tony Allcock Trophy as they won through Round One. Last year the team reached the Last 32 in the Country and have made a positive start this year. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

18th May - Ross Murphy & Carl Frostick finished on the highest winning rink as Hertfordshire took on Cambridgeshire in the Eastern Counties League. This puts the lads in an excellent position as the Middleton Cup Squad is selected at the end of the month. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

16th May - Two Buntingford Fours are through to the Last 16 of the County Fours – and a first for Greg Amos Four reaching this stage of the competition. An easy win for Ross Murphy, Carl Frostick, Scott Wake & Mark Plume at Whit Hern 22-9, and a solid win for Dave Clifton, Mick Grimsdale, Len Purdy and Greg Amos at Sawbridgeworth. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update. 

16th May - Bryan Davies and Vic Greenberg won through in the National Old Man Pairs first round with a great win against Don Fox & Mark Harris from Sawbridgeworth. The correct name for the Competition is the ‘Senior Pairs’ but it doesn’t quite have the same ring to it…. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update. 

15th May - Carl Frostick, Scott Wake & Mark Plume came through a tough encounter in front of a bumper crowd at Bishop’s Stortford Bowls Club in their County Triples match against Scott Lepley & Co. A close start to the game but the Bunty Boys ran out 19-10 winners and reach the Last 16 as the only Buntingford Triple left in the competition. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update. 

14th May - The road back to Leamington is underway for the Bunty Boys as they cruised through the first round of the National Two Fours Competition with a comfortable win at Whitethorn 50-27. The rink of Peter Warren, Vic Greenberg, Scott Wake & Carl Frostick won by 4 shots, and Ross Murphy, Tony Keeling, Dave Murphy & Garry Warrender won by 19 shots. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

14th May- Three Bunty Belles are into the 3^rd Round of the County Unbadged Singles. A great win for Dinah Geere against John’s Trophy Squad member Sarah Best from Ware. Equally impressive wins for Roxana Clifton and Debbie Marks. Well done Ladies. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

13th May- Matthew Murphy can hold his head up high after an impressive display in his first ever County Competition. After a slow start in the County Unbadged Singles Matthew dug in and came close to victory. Although the final result didn’t go his way, he was commended for his conduct on the green and his excellent performance. Well done Matthew. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

12th May - Peter Warren, Ross Murphy & Carl Frostick took part in the latest Middleton Cup Trial at Welwyn & District Bowls Club. All 3 Buntingford players have an excellent chance of making the Middleton Cup Squad that is selected at the end of May. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update. 

10th May - Three County Fours Teams into the 3^rd Round of the County Fours – and a debut for Michael Foulger in a County Competition. Teams of Roger Evans, Michael Foulger, Dave Baxter & Bryan Davies (who won through against a strong Rosedale Four), Ross Murphy, Carl Frostick, Scott Wake & Mark Plume won through comfortably, and Peter Warren, Tony Keeling, Vic Greenberg & Garry Warrender also had a comfortable win. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

9th May - A great turnout for the ‘Free Lessons’ as over 20 people turn out. Thank you to all of the Coaches and helpers. 

9th May- The battle of Buntingford went to Carl Frostick, Scott Wake & Mark Plume as they won through their County Triples match against Ross Murphy, Tony Keeling & Garry Warrender. Nip and tuck throughout the match came down to the last 2 ends. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

3rd May - A tough start for the Bunty Boys in an early 1^st Round Triples match. Mark Plume playing his first match since his Appendix operation struggled to bend down and played Lead. Dave Murphy subbing for Scott Wake played Two, and Cark Frostick skipped the Triple to a win at a very heavy and unpredictable Sele Farm green. Thank you to Mark Plume for this update.

3rd May -  A tight finish in the first ‘Battle of Buntingford’ this season as Ross Murphy, Tony Keeling and Garry Warrender got the better of Rick Brown’s triple on an extra end in the first round of the County Triples. Rick Brown’s triple fell behind early on and were heading for an early bath – but inspired by Mick Marks excellent performance they battled back to force the game into an extra end – and Mick missed winning the match by just a matter of centimetre’s with his last bowl. A great game to start the season off with. Thank you to Mark Plume for providing this update. 

24th April - Now that the outdoor season is underway, it is time to to update about Buntingford's successes in the indoor season. After winning division B in the 2017/18 indoor season and getting promotion to 
Division A, the Bunty boys were at again in the 2018/19 season, winning the division A title by a clear six points. The team went unbeaten in the first half of the season winning the first 13 games, but a blip in mid season saw the team drop to third in the table. A resurgence of form saw the team win their last half dozen games to finish the season well.
A squad of: Mike Hatley, Brian Bushell, John Collins, Rick Brown, Roger Evans, Ross Murphy, Dave Murphy, along with Riverain's Ron Williams did Buntingford proud.
Also Mike Hatley, Brian Bushell, along with Ron Williams, lost narrowly in the clubs men's triples final to a team containing a national indoor finalist, so no shame there.
All in all, a successful indoor season for Buntingford.

22nd April - The first bowling event of this year's season was a roaring success with 7 rinks of triples playing.  The Spider was won by Brian Bushell and Mick Grimsdale was this year's winner of the Spoon Drive.  A big thank you to all those in the kitchen who provided a lovely meal afterwards, those who set out the rink, those who helped on the bar.  The sun shone and good fun was had by all.


I bid a fond farewell to the website after 12 years......
After spending hour upon hour upon hour updating the news, collating stats and facts, delving deep into our history and having access to over 5000 photograph's - it's now time for someone new to take over the reigns.
Thanks for reading. Mark.


         The Website is in tip-top condition for the upcoming season:

 - This includes a brand new 'Past Members' page.
 - The 'Current Member 2019' section is all up to date.
 - The 'Club History' section has been updated.
-  The 'History in Pics' page contains new photograph's.
 - The 'Club Honours' page has been updated.
 - The 'Club Finals Results' page shows more detail.
 - The 'Club Fixtures for 2019' have now been loaded.

     On Monday 22nd April 2019 at 10.15am the total visitors to the Buntingford Bowls Club Website was 50602. 
       There have been 1844 views so far in 2019 averaging 16 visitors every single day. Thanks for visiting us.
                                               (The website count stood at 48758 at the end of 2018)


14th April - Congratulations to Peter Warren and Carl Frostick as both have received a Hertfordshire Middleton Cup Trial and both have been selected in the first Eastern Counties League games. We wish them all the best as they battle for places in the Middleton Cup Squad that will be announced at the end of May.

13th April - Today was the Club's annual spring clean morning. Many thanks to those who worked very hard to get our rink and surrounds ready for the forthcoming season. Thanks also to the members who worked inside the club, washing, cleaning and tidying up. The Club's first game is a Spoon Drive on Monday 22nd April at 2.30pm.

18th March -
Gold Medal success for Murphy & Plume representing Team England in Hong Kong & China.
What a fantastic experience for Ross Murphy & Mark Plume to be the first players in Club History to pull on a Bowls England shirt and represent their Country.

The Hong Kong World Invitational Event was played on Indoor Greens and Outdoor greens. With 21 Countries taking part Ross Murphy and his rink were 'England 'A', and Mark Plume and his rink were 'England 'B'.
Countries came as far as South Africa (who had 4 Internationals in their team, accompanied by a Team Manager). Zimbabwe were represented, Australia, Macau. Commonwealth Medalists from Malaysia and China were present. Canada made the journey, a team from South Korea also came, and many, many more.
And what a start for both Ross and Mark!
6 League Games with only the best 4 placed teams across all of the groups qualifying for the Semi Finals. A tough competition and a Gold Medal for Ross Murphy who had an excellent game in the Final against Malaysia. Mark and his rink started with a Bronze Medal. It was still all so surreal.

Onto the China Open and 'wow' again. A Gold Medal for Mark Plume who faced Ross Murphy and his England rink in the Final. Ross settled for a Silver this time around.

A 3rd tournament took place in China which was another 3 hours drive from the first, and this time England 'A' (Ross) bowed out in the Group phase, with England 'B' (Mark) reaching the Quarter Finals only to be defeated by just 1 shot by China. Our England 'C' team won that event making England the first ever Country to make a clean sweep winning all 3 competitions. Our Ladies Team also managed 2 Bronze Medals in their 3 tournaments making it a memorable 2 weeks for Team England.
                         
  

15th February - 32 members and friends had a great week at Potters Leisure Resort. Several people excelled in Competitions including Archery, Air Rifle Shooting, Clay Pigeon Shooting along with Snooker and Segway. We even had a couple of big wins at Bingo!
Sadly we did not fare very well in the Bowls Competition and nobody progressed to the final stages this time.
Our thanks to Greg and Ellen Amos who organised the trip. Dinah.

24th January - A reminder to all members about the upcoming 'Out of this World Quiz' this Saturday evening (26th). It is not too late to add your name to the list of attendees. Please contact either Roxy, Debbie, Gwen or Ellen if you wish to attend. Thank you.

You'll notice that some of the pages are having a makeover.
 - The Home Page has been re-designed slightly.
 - The Club Information page has been re-worded completely and updated.
 - The Current Members 2018 page has been updated.
 - The Past Members page is more structured now and will be finished shortly.
 - The news from 2017 that was currently on the Latest News page has now been moved to the Club News 2007-2017 page. If you've got some time it's always great to look back to see what has happened over the years........
 - The Club History page has been updated further.

 - And don't forget our Facebook page. Any member can join the group, and any member can post a story, or a photograph - don't be shy......... 

 - I need your stories to add to the Website. A plea at the AGM was for more members to contribute and send in their news for me to publish.
At the moment it's still the same 1 or 2 members that seem to do so and we have 100+ members at the club.............

 - Please contact me at: admin@buntingfordbowls.co.uk

18th January - The latest Club Newsletter has been uploaded to the website.

13th January - The Buntingford Bowls Club Socials are coming up thick and fast and your club needs you to make them a success.
January 26th at 7.30pm for an 8pm start - An Out of this World Quiz with Vic
March 9th at 7.30pm for an 8pm start - Big Mick Quiz Night
Please pop down the club to add you name to the list of attendees, or contact Debbie Marks direct. Thank you

SUBS are due by February 28th: The Club is open every Wednesday morning to pay them in person, or contact Roxana Clifton to arrange payment.
And remember - The Junior fee this year is FREE - yes, completely FREE!
This is an excellent opportunity to promote the club to under 18's as the only sporting activity in Buntingford that is completely FREE of charge. The club needs your help to spread the word. Put it on Social Media, tell your friends, shout it from the roof-tops.... The Club is at the height of it's popularity and needs to capatilise on the success of 2018. Everyone can play their part - PLEEEAAASSSEEE.....

       On Sunday 13th January at 2.00pm the total visitors to the Buntingford Bowls Club Website was 49016. 
        There have been 258 views so far in 2019 averaging 21 visitors every single day. Thank you so much
                                                 The count stood at 48758 at the end of 2018
 
 Congratulations to Ross Murphy & Mark Plume
      as both will represent England in 3 World 
       Invitational Events in Hong Kong & China:

  ENGLAND REPRESENTATIVES ENDORSED TO COMPETE AT EVENTS
                                  IN CHINA AND HONG KONG:
Bowls England is delighted to endorse 12 bowlers to compete in the Tiger Bowls World Invitation, which will take place on the 9th and 10th March 2019, followed by the One Belt One Road World Invitation from the 11th to 16th March 2019, organised jointly by the Hong Kong Lawn Bowls Training Centre and Shenzhen Zhong Ti Shi Dai International Sports Development Co. Ltd.

Bowls England received a lot of interest in this opportunity, and have obtained special dispensation from the event organisers to enter three rinks into the 2019 events. The individuals endorsed by Bowls England to participate are: Ashley Caress (Lincolnshire), James Fuge (Essex), Josh Minto (Northumberland), Ross Murphy (Hertfordshire), Steve Pallas (Northumberland), Jason Parkinson (Lancashire), Mark Plume (Hertfordshire), Simon Richardson (Northumberland), Charlie Souter (Surrey), Robert Stirling (Lancashire), Glenn Williams (Hertfordshire) and Chris Yeomans (Northumberland).

These prestigious tournaments are poised to become one of the signature bowls events on the International Bowls Calendar. Being one of the largest annual International Lawn Bowls events in the world, Tiger Bowls has, in the past, attracted over 500 bowlers to take part in the event.To make these events even more competitive and exciting, invitations are sent to all national members of World Bowls and also all local clubs in Hong Kong to participate in. Bowls England wishes the 12 players the best of luck for both Tournaments.

1st January - Report from Debbie Marks on the New Years Eve Party:
The club members welcomed in 2019 at a banquet last night. Many thanks to Roxy for a scrumptious four course dinner, preceeded by canapes. Thanks to Graham Waite for providing the music, thanks to Mick Marks for manning the bar, thank you to all the troupers in the kitchen who tidied up after the meal, you know who you are. Happy New Year to everyone, looking forward to seeing you at the next social on Saturday 26th January.

1st January 2019 - A new Website Record......
31st Dec 2018: Website count stood at 48758 = 9308 views in 2018 Averaging 25 views per day.
31st Dec 2017: Website count stood at 39450 = 8450 views in 2017 Averaging 23 views per day.
31st Dec 2016: Website count stood at 31000 = 8607 views in 2016 Averaging 24 views per day.
31st Dec 2015: Website count stood at 22393 = 5950 views in 2015 Averaging 16 views per day.
31st Dec 2014: Website count stood at 16443 = 4733 views in 2014 Averaging 13 views per day.
31st Dec 2013: Website count stood at 11710 = 4441 views in 2013 Averaging 12 views per day.
31st Dec 2012: Website count stood at 7269 = 2788 views in 2012 Averaging 7 views per day.
31st Dec 2011: Website count stood at 4481 = 4481 views 2007-11 Averaging 3 views per day.
                   (The Buntingford Bowls Club ​​Website was constructed in July 2007)
This is the year to capatalise on our success from 2018. Please spread the word about our great club. We are truly a fantastic club. Thank you.

31st December - Buntingford was all set for the New Years Eve Party....
                                 
Did you go? Please send me in the photo's. Thank you

New Year's Eve Celebrations...............
The list is up in the clubhouse for this event. If you cannot get to the club to add your name, then please let Debbie Marks or Roxana Clifton know if you want to attend. Please come along and support the Club. Thank you

                   
   Merry Christmas from everyone at             Buntingford Bowls Club

     On Saturday 22nd December at 9.45am the total visitors to the Buntingford Bowls Club Website was 48644. 
      There have been 9194 views so far in 2018 averaging 25 visitors every single day. Thank you so much

15th December - Buntingford's Bowls Club Pre-Christmas Buffet Bash took place last night. A big thank you's to Roxy & Ellen for a wonderful spread, to Mick Marks for manning the bar, to John Collins for making the Xmas cake used in 'guess the weight of the cake' competition, to Mick Grimsdale for 'play your cards right' and to Debbie for the quiz. Thank you to all those who attended and to those who bought along raffle prizes.  Have a very Merry Christmas and look forward to some of you at the New Year's Eve Dinner.

11th December - Congratulations to Roger Evans:
County Junior Women's Manager:  The County Executive are pleased to announce that Roger Evans of Buntingford Bowls Club, and Executive Member of Hertfordshire Bowls Coaching Society has been appointed as the Junior Women's Manager. Roger is bringing many years of coaching experience with the Juniors to this role and we have every confidence that he is the right person for the job.

8th December - Some Indoor Bowls news: Congratulations to Mike Hatley who has been awarded his Hertfordshire Indoor County Badge. Mike represents Riverain Indoor Bowls Club during the winter months and I'm not aware of any outdoor Buntingford Bowls Club member that has an Indoor County Badge - so a little piece of history has been created there.
Well done Mike.

7th December - Around 50% of the club turned out for the AGM this year which is slightly up on last year. A number apologies were sent for absence,  but again there were a large number of 'no shows'. However, there was lots of healthy debate across a number of topics and we thank you all for your atttendance and input.
The club would like to express their thanks and gratitude to Phil Geere.
Phil stepped down from the position of Club Facilities Manager after numerous years of service and did an outstanding job. This position is now vacant and we'd now like members to step forward to take on this rewarding position.
The Gents have a new Captain in John Collins. John was the previous Vice Captain and we wish him well for the forthcoming year.
Keith Savage joins the Committee, and all other positions remain unchanged.

7th December - The Club Officials 2019 page has been updated.
The Club Information page has also been updated.

7th December -
The Club website has passed 9000 visitors in a Calendar year which is a new club record! 
Thank you and please keep sending me in your news stories......

   On Friday 7th December at 9,.00pm the total visitors to the Buntingford Bowls Club Website stood at 48462.               There have been 9012 views so far in 2018 averaging 26 views every day. Thank you so much

30th November - The Past Member and Current Member Profile pages are still being updated.

21st November - The Current Member Profiles page has been updated.

21st November - A new Past Members section is under construction.

21st November - Your Club AGM documents have been circulated and sent to you via email. If you haven't received these documents please contact me at admin@buntingfordbowls.co.uk or contact Debbie Marks direct. Thank you.

20th November - Some of the Current Member Profile Photograph's have been updated.

20th November - The Club History has been updated.

19th November - Buntingford Bowls Cub laid on another great event as they held the Annual East Herts Bowls Association Presentation evening. Well done to all of the prize winners, and a big thank you to Roxana Clifton, Debbie Marks & Roger Evans for providing an excellent meal.

18th November - Next weeks Indoor game at Cheshunt on the 24th November has been cancelled as the Cheshunt club could not raise a team. I bet they were just scared......

17th November - The EHBA Presentation has been moved to Buntingford Bowls Club. Due to a poor uptake of the tickets, a decision was made to move venues and reduce the costs to £12 for a buffet and entertainment. So, if you are at a loose end this evening please get in touch with Roger Evans and let him know you're interested in attending. Thanks.

   On Saturday 17th November at 9.20am the total visitors to the Buntingford Bowls Club Website stood at 48187.               There have been 8737 views so far in 2018 averaging 27 views every day. Thank you so much.

14th November - After finally getting round to celebrating our 2017 performances, here is a team photo showing our record trophy hall:
          

12th November - The Home page has been updated with new photogragh's.

12th November - The Latest Club Newsletter has been added to the 'Newsletters 2018' page. And with a new proposal to re-design our club badge in time for our Centenary year, I would certainly recommend visiting the 'Club History in Pics' to see how our club badge has evolved over the years before passing your feedback to our Committee. Thank you.

12th November - The Club History page has had a complete overhaul with new photographs added. Also there are many updates included.

12th November - The History in Pics has been updated with new photographs. In addition both the EHBA and EHBL Photo galleries also have new additions with new photograph's added.

10th November - A new record has been created for number of visits to this website in a calendar year. Thank you - and please keep sending in your news stories to admin@buntingfordbowls.co.uk

10th November - Some of the photo galleries have been updated.

8th November - In the next few hours someone will click onto the website and turn the counter to a new record for number of website visitors in a calendar year. 48047 is the number now - just 11 more 'hits' and we're there...

8th November - Last call for any 'Rule Changes/Amendments' to be in ahead of the AGM. Any items will need to be with Frank Beale in writing by today!
Any Other Business items will need to be with Frank  Beale by 29th November. Thank you.

6th November - Member Profiles updated with the National Tony Allcock Trophy performance this year where the club reached the last 32 in the Country - a tremendous achievement!

4th November - So we're just a few more visits away from a record........ 
If the view counter reaches 48058 - then we have a new record for number of visits in a Calendar year. If its you that visits and makes the record - why not drop me an email and tell me? Email - admin@buntingfordbowls.co.uk

2nd November - Dont forget if you want to make any rule amendments in time for the AGM they will have to be sent to the Chairman in the next couple of days. For 'Any Other Business' its 7 days before the meeting. Thanks

    On Friday 2nd November at 3.30pm the total visitors to the Buntingford Bowls Club Website stood at 47950.                  There have been 8500 views so far in 2018 averaging 27 views every day. Thank you so much.

23rd October - There have been lots of Website updates.
The Club Members 2018 page has been completely revamped. It has been updated and shows all of your achievements for 2018.
Our Club History page has been updated with some background history on the creation of our Club Badge. This new information is courtesy of Eddie Plume with thanks.
Lots of the other website pages have also been tweaked here and there.

  On Tuesday 23rd October at 9.00pm the total visitors to the Buntingford Bowls Club Website stood at 47793.                  There have been 8346 views so far in 2018 averaging 28 views every day. Thank you so much.

20th October - Please can all of our members take time to look at the notice boards. There are also a lot of Social events coming up. Please also take the time to nominate for the upcoming Indoor matches. Thank you.

 - Don't forget Competition Entry Night this Friday. This is for the External Competitions (Club Competition entries will be early next year). Thank you.

    On Tuesday 16th October at 9.30am the total visitors to the Buntingford Bowls Club Website stood at 47669.                  There have been 8219 views so far in 2018 averaging 29 views every day. Thank you so much.
 - We are well on the way to smashing the record for number of views in a Calendar year. Currently this stands at 8607 in the year 2016.
Thank you to everybody, and please keep sending in your latest news stories & photograph's.

16th October - Another excellent Buntingford Bowls Club Presentation Evening with more than 1 or 2 sore heads in the morning. A massive thank you to Roxana Clifton & Roger Evans for their organisation, and thank you to our guest speakers of Bryan 'lads, lads, lads' Davies, Dinah Geere and our  Hertfordshire Ladies County President Natalie Chalcraft.

13th October - The October newsletter has now been added to the website.

6th October - Don't forget next weeks Presentation Evening. It's 6.30pm for a 7pm sit down so please don't be late and keep everyone waiting. Thank you.

29th September - Thank you to those members that supported the Club Renovation day. There were around 30-40 people at anyone time and nice to see some of the new members helping out. A big thank you to Ellen Amos for keeping us all fed and watered.

28th September - Following our successful season as a Club, the 'Club Records' page has now been updated. There have been a number of records created this season that will go down in the History of the club.

28th September - Some sad news to report that Peter Branagan has passed away. Peter had been a member since the early 90's and in his time was a Club Two Wood Pairs Champion. Our thoughts are with Joan and family.
                                  
Funeral details: 11am at Harwood Park Crematorium, Stevenage, SG2 8XT, on Monday 29th October, and then back to Buntingford Social Club.

24th September - All members should have now received an email with a Competition Entry form attached. This must be completed if you wish to enter a Hertfordshire County Competition, an EHBA, an EHBL, or an EHDWBA competition. The club will be hosting a 'Competition Entry Night' on Friday 19th October at 7.30pm where I would encourage you all to attend.

You may already be aware that Hertfordshire have withdrawn the County Under 30 Singles and Officers Singles competitions from their programme.
In the past Buntingford have had no success in the Officers Singles but did enjoy much success in the County Under 30 Singles. This competition began in 1980 and the club won this competition 6 times, with 2 further Runner Up's. Buntingford Bowls Club have been the second most successful club in the history of this competition:
Mark Plume holds the Hertfordshire County Record with 4 wins, Scott Wake and Carl Frostick have each won the tournament once. Both Mark and Scott have also each been Runners Up. 

23rd September - So the weather beat everyone today as the end of season 'Captain v Captain' finale was cancelled - and it probably saved everyone from food poisoning given those that were down to carry out the tea duty today... ...
Don't forget next weekend is the scheduled renevation works - all hands on deck please.

19th September - The 'Club Honours' page has been updated with the 2018 record haul of reaching 16 External Competition Finals.

19th September - A number of menu pages on this website  are now being updated as the season draws to a close:
 - The 'Club Record Wins' page has been updated with many of the record scores being achieved this year.
 - The 'Club History page' has been updated with more information.
 - The 'Club County Players' page has been updated with the 2018 stats.
 - The 'Photo Galleries' are now being updated with 2018 photo's.
 - Two new pages have now been added to the website:
    'Rankings - Titles' and 'Rankings - Finals'. If you have ever won a competition, or even been in a Final at any level - you will be ranked amongst our great club history.
 - Our Facebook page is also packed full of photograph's and information about our great club  aswell. 

  On Tuesday 18th September at 2.30pm the total visitors to the Buntingford Bowls Club Website stood at 47033.             There have been 7583 views so far in 2018 averaging 29 views every day. Thank you so much.


So this season will surely go down as the greatest season ever in the history of Buntingford Bowls Club. A number of 'historic firsts' have seen the club reach new standards. A record number of players have contributed to a magnificent season,  and the highlights and achievements are listed below.

16th September -
  COUNTY LEAGUE CHAMPIONS 2018
Buntingford's Men rounded of their fantastic season by winning the Hertfordshire County League.
After reaching the Semi Finals they faced arguably the best club in Hertfordshire on their own green - Garston. However, they were no match for the mighty Bunty Boys as they steamrolled their opponents 43-25.
In the County League Final they faced Harpenden. This was a repeat of the 2014 Final and this time the result was exactly the same!!!
The Bunty Boys ran out 43-30 winners to move up to 2nd in the all-time winners list with 3 County League Titles since the competition began in 1995.
And on a great note, Buntingford did not lose a single rink during the entire 2018 campaign.

A big thank you to Team Manager Roger Evans for kicking off the day with our traditional Breakfast for reaching this stage of the competition.
Thank you to our reserves Bryan Davies, Dave Murphy and Roger Evans.
And a big thank you to our faithful travelling support of Ellen & Greg Amos, Jennie Keeling, Daryll Davies and Micky G.

The victorious team were:
Peter Warren, Vic Greenberg, Scott Wake, Mark Plume, Ross Murphy, Tony Keeling, Carl Frostick & Garry Warrender.  
     
County League Final v Harpenden 43-30
Peter Warrren, Vic Greenberg, Scott Wake & Mark Plume won 24-11
Ross Murphy, Tony Keeling, Carl Frostick & Garry Warrender drew 19-19
County League Semi Final v Garston 43-25
Peter Warrren, Vic Greenberg, Scott Wake & Mark Plume won 21-12
Ross Murphy, Tony Keeling, Carl Frostick & Garry Warrender won 22-13

East Area League Cup Final v Northaw & Cuffley 50-37
Stan Keen, Bryan Davies, Tony Keeling & Garry Warrender won 19-18
Peter Warren, Vic Greenberg, Scott Wake & Mark Plume won 31-17

                           Final East Area 'Division A' League Table:
            Team                     Played   Won   Drawn   Lost   For   Against   Points
        Buntingford                     4          4          0         0     219       79         24
    Bishop's Stortford               4          2          1         1     156      143        15
         Datchworth                    4          2          1         1     145      151        15
             Ware                          4          0          1         3     125      182         3
     Sawbridgeworth                 4          0          1         3     107      199         3

                             East Area League 'Division A' Results:
Away v Bishop's Stortford 40-26
Bryan Davies, Tony Keeling, Dave Murphy & Garry Warrender won 20-15
Roger Evans, Vic Greenberg, Scott Wake & Mark Plume won 20-11
Home v Sawbridgeworth 70-16
Ross Murphy, Vic Greenberg, Carl Frostick & Garry Warrender won 31-11
Peter Warren, Dave Murphy, Scott Wake & Mark Plume won 39-5
Home v Ware 53-24
Ross Murphy, Bryan Davies, Carl Frostick & Tony Keeling won 21-18
Peter Warrren, Vic Greenberg, Dave Murphy & Mark Plume won 32-6
Away v Datchworth 56-13
Peter Warren, Vic Greenberg, Scott Wake & Mark Plume won 37-4
Roger Evans, Tony Keeling, Dave Murphy & Garry Warrender won 19-9

14th September - The 'Club Finals Results' page has now been updated.

14th September - Buntingford Bowls Club Finals Results 2018:

Dinah Geere wins the Ladies Singles and Ladies Handicap 'Double'.
Debbie Marks win both Ladies Pairs Competitions.
Howard Baker wins 3 Club Finals.
Ross Murphy, Scott Wake and Garry Warrender both win 2 Finals.
Jenny Newington wins her first Club Final after 6 previous Runners Up.
John Collins win his first Club Final after 4 previous Runners Up.
Joan Wilson wins her first Club Final.
Jennie Keeling wins her first Club Final.
Michael Foulger wins the New Members Cup and together with Runner Up Nathan Jennings, they have a great bowls future ahead of them.

12th September - The last of the Club Finals takes place this Thursday at 4.30pm (12th Sept). Chris Hatley, Jan Ward & Roger Evans take on Howard Baker, Jennie Keeling & Garry Warrender (subbing for the injured Dave Murphy).
Supporters welcome. Thank you

   The Buntingford Gala due to take place this weekend has been cancelled.

Some upcoming events taking place at the club:
Saturday 13th October 6.30pm - Buntingford Presentation Evening
Friday 19th October 8.00pm - External Competition Entry night.
Saturday 3rd November 8.00pm - Big Micks Quiz

11th September - The 'Club History' page has been updated with our magnificent achievements this season - and of course more history can still be created this season as Buntingford's Men play in the Hertfordshire County League Semi Finals this Sunday morning at Garston Bowls Club.

11th September - Our Bowls England Photo gallery has been updated on the website with all of the Buntingford Bowls Club members that have qualified for the Bowls England National Championships. Please select 'Bowls England Pics' from the menu page to view the latest photgraphs added.

11th September - 'Club History in Pics' has also been updated.

9th September - Buntingford created history today after having reached 3 East Herts Bowls League Finals.
Sue Batchelor & Ross Murphy were the clubs very first Finalists in the Mixed Pairs Competition:
                             

Roger Evans, Mike Hatley, Tony Keeling & Carl Frostick were the clubs first Fours Finalists since the year 1925:
         

In the Pairs Garry Warrender subbed for the injured Dave Murphy, and with partner Greg Amos became the Clubs first Pairs Finalists since 1925 aswell: 
                            

A new page has now been added to the website given our recent club successes in the East Herts Bowls League competitions 'EHBL Finals Pics'

 On Monday 10th September at 10.00am the total visitors to the Buntingford Bowls Club Website stood at 46724.             There have been 7274 views so far in 2018 averaging 28 views every day. Thank you so much.


8th September - Club Finals Day Results will follow after the completion of the Club Triples Final this Thursday, but a massive thank you to Roxana Clifton, Ellen Amos, Gwen Beale and lots of helpers in the kitchen, on the Bar and on the green. And thanks to Roger Evans for his organisation on the day.

6th September - Buntingford Bowls Club now top 600 Appearance for Hertfordshire since the start of their History......
Following Ross Murphy & Roger Evans representing Hertfordshire this week, Buntingford players have now played a massive 601 games for their County.
61 Hertfordshire games this season have featured Buntingford Players and this is a new club record. Well done to the 9 Buntingford Members that have played for Hertfordshire this season at 'Friendly' level, 'Eastern Counties' Level, 'Middleton Cup' level and 'Balcomb Trophy' level. You have done the club proud this season. Number of Appearances below:
9 - Mark Plume, Garry Warrender, Roger Evans
8 - Carl Frostick
7 - Ross Murphy
5 - Vic Greenberg, Dave Murphy, Tony Keeling
4 - Peter Warren

Incidently Dave Murphy should have been playing the last County game, but as many of you know Dave is currently incapacitated with a broken fibula. We wish Dave a speedy recovery.

  Saturday 29th September has been chosen as the  'Club Renovation Day'.
This is where we put the green to rest for the winter and involves cutting, seeding and loading tonnes of top soil onto the green. This is a big job and the club require as many members as possible to help throughout the day. Please can you all make every effort to attend. Th ank you.

4th September - A big thank you, and welcome to our new Website sponsors:
   
A full page detailing more about the services and care Layston Grove Offer has been added to our 'Website Sponsors' page. Their logo is also displayed  on the front page of our website. For more information call 01763 274327 or alternatively please visit www.oakdalecaregroup.com

4th September - Greg Amos has decided to step down from his role as Men's Club Captain. We would like to thank Greg for all of his hard work and committment during his time in office.

4th September - The latest Club Newsletter has now been added to the website. Please visit the 'Club Newsletter' page for the latest updates.


   On Monday 3rd September at 7.50pm the total visitors to the Buntingford Bowls Club Website stood at 46413.                There have been 6963 views so far in 2018 averaging 28 views every day. Thank you so much.

 
   Buntingford Bowls Club Finals Day Programme has now been finalised:

9.30am
Ladies Four Wood Pairs:
Ellen Amos & Val Moules v Jenny Newington & Debbie Marks
Mens Four Wood Pairs:
Steve Baker & Garry Warrender v Howard Baker & Scott Wake

10.00am
Boniwell Singles:
Tony Keeling v Vic Greenberg

10.30am
New Members Semi Finals:
Michael Fourger v Tom Jennings
Terry Cooper v Nathan Jennings

12.30pm
Williams Novice Singles:
Keith Savage v John Collins
Ladies Handicap Singles:
Dinah Geere v Jenny Newington
Mens Handicap Singles:
Garry Warrender v Scott Wake
Ladies Two Wood Pairs:
Joan Wilson & Debbie Marks v Jackie Thomas & Rosemary Webber

1.30pm
Bert Bradley Plate:
Vic Greenberg or Greg Amos v Ross Murphy

3.00pm
New Members Final:
M Fourger or T Jennings v T Cooper or N Jennings
3.30pm
Mens Two Wood Pairs:
Tony Duffin & Mark Plume v Howard Baker & Ross Murphy

3.45pm
Ladies Championship Singles:
Dinah Geere v Debbie Marks
Mens Championship Singles:
Garry Warrender v Tony Keeling

               The Club Mixed Triples Final will be played at a later date.

The East Herts Bowls League Finals will take place on Sunday 9th September at Ware Bowls Club. Buntingford Bowls Club will be represented in 3 Finals:

10.30am
East Herts Bowls League Singles Final
Bob Hayter (Hoddedson & Rye Park v Nick Goff (Sawbridgeworth)
East Herts Bowls League Secretary's Singles Final
G. Smith (B.S.P.) v Harry Wright (Sele Farm)
East Herts Bowls League Mixed Pairs Final
Sue Batchelor & Ross Murphy (Buntingford) v R. Russell & P. Russell (W&D)
East Herts Bowls League Fours Final
Roger Evans, Mike Hatley, Tony Keeling & Carl Frostick (Buntingford) v
R. Hills, D. Crudgington, M. Johnson & D. Baker (Cheshunt) 

2.30pm
East Herts Bowls League Pairs Final
SUB TBC (Dave Murphy injured) & Greg Amos (Buntingford) v
A. Gibbs & M. Milne (Hertford Castle)
East Herts Bowls League Triples Final
C. Parkhouse, T. Stickland & R. Edwards (Welwyn Garden City) v
G. Frost, I. Stone & L. Brown (Welwyn Garden City)
Ranson Cup Final
Cheshunt v Welwyn Garden City

3rd September - The Buntingford Bears have been confirmed as East Herts Bowls League Division Two Runners Up for 2018.
That's back to back promotions for the team. Congratulations to the players.
Here's a full list of the squad and the number of games each has played:
11 - George Swaby.   10 - Stan Keen, Brian Bushell, Mike Hatley.
9 - Dave Murphy, Tony Keeling, Len Purdy.   4 - Mick Marks, Phil Geere.
3 - Ross Murphy.   2 - John Weaver,  Mick Cheeseman.
1 - Jake Andrews, Howard Baker.

The Buntingford Bulls narrowly missed out on promotion from Division Three by just 4 points.

2nd September - East Herts Finals Day Results:
                          Ross Murphy wins the EHBA Singles
               Ross Murphy & Garry Warrender win the EHBA Pairs
          Ross Murphy & Scott Wake win the EHBA Two Wood Pairs
A hat-trick of wins and a successful Finals Day for Ross Murphy. Well done.

Runners Up for Bryan Davies, Tony Keeling & Mark Plume in the EHBA Triples. Runner Up for Bryan Davies in the EHBA Officers Singles. Runners Up for Buntingford's Men in both the Lyndhurst Trophy and the Thurgood Cup.

A massive thank you to Buntingford Bowls for hosting the event, and all of the helpers in the kitchen, the bar and those that worked on the green.
Well done to everybody that made it such a successful day.

1st September - Mark Plume wins the EHBA Champions of Champions.
Mark Plume became a record holder after winning the EHBA Champion of Champions for a record 4th time after victory against Alan Hutchison from Bishop's Stortford. After racing into a 12-3 lead, Mark was pegged back but dug in to finish winning an excellent contest 21-14. Well done Mark.
Thank you to the support from Tony & Jennie Keeling, Eddie Plume, Ross Murph and the Bishop's Stortford members.

1st September - The Buntingford Bulls won the bragging rights this year as they defeated the Buntingford Bears in their Annual challenge match by just 1 shot.

1st September - The Bunty Boys are East Area Cup Champions - again!
Buntingford's Men won a record breaking 9th Hertfordshire Bowls East Area Cup after a hard fought victory against Northaw & Cuffley 50-35.
The team raced into an early lead, but then were pegged back as the game went on. Both rinks were ahead during the first half, but then both fell behind at some stage during the second half of the match. Towards the end the Bunty Boys found second gear to run out as deserved Champions.
Stan Keen, Bryan Davies, Tony Keeling & Garry Warrender won 19-18
Peter Warren, Vic Greenberg, Scott Wake & Mark Plume won 31-17
Thank you to our supporters: Greg Amos, Ross Murphy & Jennie Keeling.

29th August - History made today as Sue Batchelor & Ross Murphy become our first ever East Herts Bowls League Mixed Pairs Finalists.
After falling behind the Buntingford Pair were 7 shots down with just 2 ends to play - BUT - 3 shots on the 20th end and then a 5 on the 21st end saw them through to the Final. Well done to both of you.
So, that's the EHBL Fours Final, the EHBL Pairs Final and now the EHBL Mixed Pairs Final gives Buntingford Bowls Club their best ever performance in the clubs history.
The Finals will be played on Sunday 9th September at Ware Bowls Club.

28th August - Dinah Geere bowed out at the Semi Finals stage of the EHDWBA Singles after a tough match. The score did not reflect the game and all the luck seemed to go against Dinah.
A consolation is that Dinah became the first Lady Bowler from Buntingford Bowls Club to reach that stage of the competition so Dinah created a little piece of history along the way.....

    On Friday 31st August at 8.30am the total visitors to the Buntingford Bowls Club Website stood at 46240.                     There have been 6790 views so far in 2018 averaging 27 views every day. Thank you so much.


         The 'East Finals Weekend' programme has now been confirmed.
   Buntingford have reached 9 out of the 11 Finals and the schedule is below:

SATURDAY 1st SEPTEMBER
10.00am
HERTFORDSHIRE BOWLS EAST AREA CUP FINAL
*Being played at Northaw & Cuffley Bowls Club*
Northaw & Cuffley v Buntingford

5.00pm
EAST HERTS BOWLS ASSOCIATION CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS FINAL
*Being played at Bishop's Stortford Bowls Club*
Bishop's Stortford v Buntingford
(Alan Hutchison v Mark Plume)

****************************************************
SUNDAY 2nd SEPTEMBER
*All Finals  being played at Buntingford Bowls Club*
9.30am
EAST HERTS BOWLS ASSOCIATION TRIPLES FINAL
Allenbury's v Buntingford
(D Bowie, C Bowie, M Judd v Bryan Davies, Tony Keeling, Mark Plume)

EAST HERTS BOWLS ASSOCIATION FOUR WOOD PAIRS FINAL
Hoddesdon & Rye Park v Buntingford
(Dave Fussell & Bob Hayter v Ross Murphy & Garry Warrender)

EAST HERTS BOWLS ASSOCIATION FOURS FINAL
Bishop's Stortford v Rosedale

12.30pm
EAST HERTS BOWLS ASSOCIATION LYNDHURST TROPHY FINAL
Bishop's Stortford v Buntingford

EAST HERTS BOWLS ASSOCIATION OFFICERS SINGLES FINAL
Hoddesdon & Rye Park v Buntingford
(Bob Hayter v Bryan Davies)

EAST HERTS BOWLS ASSOCIATION TWO WOOD PAIRS FINAL
Ware v Buntingford
(Graham Saville & Derek Grose v Ross Murphy & Scott Wake)

3.30pm
EAST HERTS BOWLS ASSOCIATION THURGOOD CUP FINAL
Bishop's Stortford v Buntingford

EAST HERTS BOWLS ASSOCIATION SINGLES FINAL
Ware v Buntingford
(Simon Stow v Ross Murphy)

EAST HERTS BOWLS ASSOCIATION MIXED PAIRS FINAL
Whit Hern v Rosedale

Donations of Raffle Prizes and Cakes would be very much appreciated. Thank you

27th August - Today's Australian Pairs competition resulted in a very tense play-off between Dave Murphy & Len Purdy against Garry Warrender & Ray Watkins. Dave and Len came out on top and congratulations to them both. 
Mike Cooper won the Australian Spider. A very big thank you to Roger Evans, Roxy Clifton, Ross Murphy and Peter Warren for the superb bbq buffet lunch. Thank you to all those who helped set out and clear the green. And another big thank you to all those who played today.

National Triples – The Story

So once again Carl Frostick, Scott Wake and Mark Plume took to the biggest stage in Bowls at the Bowls England National Championships at Leamington Spa as they entered the round of Last 64 in the National Triples competition.

The weather was kind to them, and as they waited to play they looked across  the rinks on all 5 greens and it really was ‘The Who’s who’ of top level bowls.
On show were Commonwealth Gold Medallist’s, British Isles Champions, National Champions, England Internationals both Senior and Junior, World Ranked players – and of course our very own Bunty Boys.

The Bunty Boys were up against former National Champions from Buckinghamshire on their rink. They were followed by a great number of Buntingford supporters and got off to a good start.
6-3 up after 5 ends and everyone could see they were involved in a great tussle. The Buckinghamshire Triple came back at them and then edged in front, but the Bunty Boys pulled away again and it was 9-7 after 9 ends.
The lads fell 11-10 behind after 13 ends and with just 5 ends to play the boys had to dig in – and they did just that!
Some excellent bowling saw them pick up a 4 on end 14 to lead 14-11. 
Another single on the 15th end stretched their lead, and then holding shot on the 16th end the Bucks skip mis-judged a fire with his last wood and the Bunty Boys picked up a 5 to lead 20-11.
2 ends to play and they had one foot in the next round. They played out the last couple of ends comfortably and shook hands to great applause from the supporters.

Back on the green just after lunch and they faced more former National Champions and a Triple from Herefordshire containing 2 England Internationals. It was clear to see the lads faced another tough encounter.
This time though they didn’t have the rub of the green and the opposing skip seemed to fire with nearly every bowl - and with great accuracy aswell.
Early on came a huge turning point. With the score at 2-5 after 5 ends, the Bunty Boys were holding 3 shots with just 1 bowl to come. The opposing skip fired and when all the bowls had come to rest instead of it being 5-5 on the scoreboard, it was 2-8 and it was going to be tough to come back from that.
2-10 and all the little rubs, edges and wicks were still going against the lads.
The Bunty Boys dug in but the ends were running out and the score was then 10-18 with 4 ends to play. They won the last 4 ends but couldn’t muster enough shots to take a victory and it finished 14-18.
A valiant effort with some fantastic bowling from all 3 Buntingford players.

Our supporters were commended by the opposition which was great to hear and you all created a great atmosphere for us to play in.
A massive thank you for those that travelled up on the day to cheer the lads on, and to those that booked hotels to stay in Leamington aswell. Your support was very much appreciated – Thank you so, so much:
Jennie & Tony Keeling, Ellen & Greg Amos, Daryll & Bryan Davies, Roger Evans, Eddie Plume, Jayne Plume, Chloe Plume, Garry & Matt Warrender, Ross & Matthew Murphy and Vic Greenberg.

It was a shame the offer of a Coach to the Bowls England National Championships at Leamington Spa from Buntingford Bowls Club wasn’t taken up by the members - because you really did miss out on a truly great spectacle……

    On Monday 27th August at 9.45am the total visitors to the Buntingford Bowls Club Website stood at 46092.                     There have been 6642 views so far in 2018 averaging 28 views every day. Thank you so much.

24th August - We wish John Hicks all the best after suffering a heart attack during an operation. Get well soon John.

23rd August - A belated and a very warm welcome to our newest members. 20 have joined Buntingford and we hope you have all enjoyed your first few months with us. You have all been added to our Club Members 2018 page.
Gill Alderton, Ian Round, Michael Fourger, David and Tricia Hill, Nathan Jennings, Tom Jennings, Kris Jennings, Brian Moore, Alan and Sue Neal, James and Karen Turner, Terry Cooper, John and Jan Shepherd, Phil and Cindy Hare, Mike and Jane Roberts.
Thank you to all of the coaches, the helpers and those club members that have given up their time to make our new members feel so welcome.
As a club we now top over 100 members again - fantastic!

23rd August - The battle of Buntingford in the East Herts Bowls League Pairs Semi Final saw Greg Amos & Dave Murphy have an excellent game and triumph against Bryan Davies & Ross Murphy 25-15. This is the first External Competition Final Greg has reached and we wish both Greg & Dave well in the Final.
So thats the Bowls League Fours Finalists and the Bowls League Pairs Finalists now confirmed, and this will be the first time in nearly 100 years that Buntingford will be represented in these competitions on EHBL Finals Day.
Sue Batchelor & Ross Murphy will be hoping to make it a hat-trick of finalists as they will play their Mixed Pairs Semi Final on the 29th.

22nd August - Latest East Herts Bowls League latest Tables.......
This was before the last Buntingford Bears game where they secured 1 point - So surely that's promotion now and a Division Two Runners Up spot?

The Buntingford Bulls may just have missed out on promotion but what a great season for them aswell:

21st August - As it does every season the winner of the County League 'East Division A' always comes down to a clash between Bishop's Stortford and Buntingford. The Bunty Boys have been in 7 out of the last 8 East Area Cup Finals - and today they reached another one!
With the floodlights on at Bishop's Stortford the lads won by 14 shots.
Bryan Davies, Tony Keeling, Dave Murphy & Garry Warrender won 20-15
Roger Evans, Vic Greenberg, Scott Wake & Mark Plume won 20-11
The final is due to be played on the same day as the East Herts Bowls Association Finals Day where Buntingford players are already in 8 out of the 10 finals. Good luck sorting out the programme for that one!

20th August - So that 8 out of 8 complete.....
Buntingford's Men have equalled last seasons record  by reaching 8 East Herts Bowls Assocoiation Finals. The Association run 10 competitions and the Bunty Boys have dominated this year again.
Competing the 8 last night was Ross Murphy in the EHBA Singles and Mark Plume in the EHBA Champion of Champions.
Ross went into an 11-2 lead, and then fell behind 16-12. A close finish saw Ross come through 21-20 and sedcure his place in the Final.
And Mark also raced into a big lead, only to be pegged back. 15-4 up, and then 18-16 in front, Mark eventually ran out winning 21-16. This win now means Mark will be playing in his 5th EHBA Champion of Champions Final. 
Well done to both of you and we wish all Buntingford Finalists well on EHBA Finals Day at Buntingford Bowls Club on Sunday 2nd September.

19th August - Please log into our Facebook page to see photograph's and action from the Bowls England National Championships.

18th August - Now this is a great story to share and a nice touching moment. Every player that qualifies for Leamington in the Bowls England National Championships is awarded a badge. Here's one below:
                                                   
This year Bishop's Stortford Bowls Club had two Ladies qualify for the National Finals after they had reached the Hertfordshire County Pairs Final. This was the first time they had ever qualified. However, one of the Ladies fell and broke her hip and the other also fell over which meant that neither player could attend the Championships to play, and therefore neither player was awarded their badge. Bowls England were adament that their rules state that players have to be in attendance to receive their qualifying badge and they weren't going to budge given the circumstances. Very harsh indeed.
Whilst Buntingford Bowls Club were playing their National Two Fours this week at Leamington, Ross Murphy managed to secure another badge, and together with the badge he won himself for qualifying - he has donated both badges to those Ladies. WOW! What a generous gesture. Well done Ross.

18th August - Bishop's Stortford Bowls Club hosted their Annual Pairs Tournament and taking part this year were Buntingford's Tony Keeling, Dinah & Phil Geere and Mark Plume. Now Tony and his partner were very generous in their games giving their opponents more shots than they got themselves in every game they played. Dinah & Phil had a mixed bag across their 4 games, and Mark Plume partnering Alan Hutchison ended up as Tournament Winners. Well done.
                             

                 National Two Fours – The Story

Buntingford’s journey started back in May and finished at the Bowls England National Championships at Leamington Spa in August – and in a National Final. Who would have ever thought that was possible...

After receiving a Bye in the first round, the Bunty Boys then beat 4 Hertfordshire Clubs in the knockout stages to take them through to the Area Final. A last wood win against Houghton Regis from Bedfordshire saw them reach the Last 16 play-off match - a feat that had never been achieved before in the history of the club.
A match up against Romford from Essex containing a number of National Champions and England Internationals went down to the wire and a 2 shot victory saw Buntingford Bowls Club reach the Bowls England National Championships at Leamington Spa for the very first time – and the last 8 in the country!

Travelling up on the morning of Thursday 16th August it was pelting down with rain, but the rain cleared and the sun shone through as the lads took their place on the green to play Bristol Bowls Club. A surreal experience to believe that Buntingford Bowls Club were actually playing in a National Quarter Final.
Peter Warren, Vic Greenberg, Scott Wake & Mark Plume were locked in a very tight battle that saw the scores at 6-5 after 11 ends played. The rink of Ross Murphy, Tony Keeling, Dave Murphy & Garry Warrender were also in a tight contest that never saw any team pull away by more than 4 shots – but at half way through the match, Buntingford led.
17 ends each played and Buntingford were ahead by 4 shots.
19 ends played each and Buntingford were up by just 2 shots.
Ross Murphy, Tony Keeling, Dave Murphy & Garry Warrender were 1 end ahead and going into the last end were 1 shot down on the scoreboard. Three brilliant bowls in the last 3 woods by Dave Murphy and Garry Warrender saw the lads pick up three shots to win 18-16 and the Bunty Boys were almost there.
A great 20th end by Peter Warren, Vic Greenberg, Scott Wake & Mark Plume saw them pick up 4 shots and the game was all over. Buntingford Bowls Club had reached the National Two Fours Semi Finals – and now cue the celebrations……
Team Manager Roger Evans and travelling reserve Bryan Davies lived every bowl from the side-lines and offered great support throughout the encounter. It was also great to see support from Buntingford’s Larry Bullen, Mike Hatley, Greg Amos, Eddie Plume and of course from all of the families of all of the players. Bishop’s Stortford Bowls Club were also out in force to support and with Marcia Dunstone from Hertfordshire Bowls, Buntingford had a great following.

Semi Final morning and the Bunty Boys were buzzing.
There was great support again as a number of people packed the sides of the green to cheer the lads on.
Peter Warren, Vic Greenberg, Scott Wake & Mark Plume were drawn to face an England International from Workington Bowls Club in Cumbria, and the rink of Ross Murphy, Tony Keeling, Dave Murphy & Garry Warrender had an equally tough match against their opposition.

Early into the game and with some excellent bowling Ross Murphy, Tony Keeling, Dave Murphy & Garry Warrender led 15-2. The rink of Peter Warren, Vic Greenberg, Scott Wake & Mark Plume were locked into another tense encounter with the scores going firstly in favour of the Bunty Boys, and then the way of their Cumbrian opponents.
The rink against Ross Murphy, Tony Keeling, Dave Murphy & Garry Warrender began to peg back against the Bunty Boys and the rink of Peter Warren, Vic Greenberg, Scott Wake & Mark Plume began to fall behind. With the scores at 15-7 and 14-19 meant there were now only 3 shots in the game.
But - 17 ends played and Buntingford were now up by 6 shots.
2 ends left and Buntingford had pulled back and were level on the rink of Peter Warren, Vic Greenberg, Scott Wake & Mark Plume tied at 21-21, and the rink of Ross Murphy, Tony Keeling, Dave Murphy & Garry Warrender were up 18-13. Buntingford were almost there…..
A great last bowl by Mark Plume saw their rink win by 1 shot leaving their opponents needing a 6 to tie the game against Garry Warrender. They didn’t get the shots required and Buntingford were in the National Two Fours Final – WOW!!!

The National Final – yes the National Final (how good does that sound?) saw Buntingford up against the favourites for the competition. Gerrards Cross had won the title before and this time their team contained 8 Buckinghamshire County Middleton Cup players and a number of England Internationals. The Bunty Boys were the underdogs but we were never going to give in that easily….

The game kicked off and both rinks picked up a two on the first end.
4-0 up and although it may not seem much now knowing how the game panned out – but it is a hugely significant moment to mention that Buntingford Bowls Club actually led a National Final……
From then on the Bunty Boys battled hard but it just wasn’t to be.
The players shook hands and as the Bunty Boys headed over to their families there were maybe one or two tears amongst all of the hugs.

It hurts to get beaten in a National Final – but who would have thought it? Buntingford Bowls Club were National Two Fours Finalists for 2018.
847 entries at the start of the competition and Buntingford had reached the last 2.
A massive achievement for all of the players involved and one that shouldn’t be underestimated.
The Bunty Boys had built a great team spirit throughout the season and credit to all of the players and supporters involved……….
   

      On Saturday 18th August at 9.20am the total visitors to the Buntingford Bowls Club Website stood at 45668.                     There have been 6218 views so far in 2018 averaging 27 views per day. Thank you so much.

15th August - Chris Hatley, Val Moules & Dinah Geere bowed out at the quarter-final stage of the EHDWBA Triples competition on a challenging Ware green. Hard luck Ladies.

15th August - I would say thats promotion secured!
Well done to the Buntingford Bears - Runners Up in the East Herts Bowls League Division Two. Well done to all of the players that have represented the team throughout the season.