Huddersfield have regained the Grouse Trophy as proud champions of the Yorkshire Inter-district Veterans Bowling League.
The team, sponsored by Bluebird Care Kirklees, took the first prize of £200 after defeating last year’s champions, Halifax, 30-26 in their final fixture.
It meant Huddersfield took the title by 23 points ahead of Bradford, with Halifax in third.
Huddersfield officials were delighted, and they immediately sent a ‘get well’ message to the home team manager of many years, Derek Gee, who has been unable to participate for most of this season due to ill health.
Also thanked were officials and helpers at all the selected home venues – Lindley Lib, Milnsbridge BC, Bradley & Colne and Lindley BC – for the use of their facilities and the excellent refreshments provided.
Huddersfield’s referee, Harry Maxwell of Thorpe Green, was thanked for all his efforts, as was raffle organiser John Townend of Paddock Con.
The Veterans Association also thanked Graham Lewis of Bluebird Care Kirklees for his generous sponsorship and for his attendance and support at all the home matches.
In response, Lewis said: “Firstly can I thank you for your kind words regarding my support during the season.
“I have really enjoyed the fine, competitive bowling that I have seen this season, learning the fine arts of the game and meeting new and old friends in the process.
“Can I congratulate all the players and organisers for regaining the title and cup. Bluebird Care is delighted to be associated with continued support for the Huddersfield and District Veterans Bowling Association.”
Away at Mytholmroyd: Roger Stopford 18 D Atkinson 21, Ron Manning 21 M Griffiths 8, Dennis Garner 10 B Winrow 21, Donald Crowther 10 L Holmes 21, Frank Griffin 21 J Hodges 10, Dave Pollard 15 J Worsnop 21, Viv Smith 17 D McMahon 21, Terry Randerson 14 A Guide 21. Manager Tony Emerson. Result Huddersfield 9 Halifax 19.
Home at Lindley BC: Frank Greenwood 21 P Collins 15, Trevor Sykes 21 M Omerod 10, Paul Rangeley 21 D Hamilton 4, Graham Howe 19 R Nicholson 21, Roger Lunn 8 T Heeley 21, John Hoyle 21 B Holroyd 16, Roy Sutton 21 D Warburton 14, Graham Brook 21 F Kennedy 20. Manager David Armitage. Result Huddersfield 21 Halifax 7.
Results from the final matches: Skipton 20 Bradford 36, Castleford 33 Wakefield 23, Halifax 26 Huddersfield 30, Leeds 23 West Riding 33.
Final league positions; Huddersfield 243, Bradford 220, Halifax 207, Skipton 200, Castleford 185, West Riding 182, Wakefield 172, Leeds 159.
