Young Whitby Bowling Club ace Josh Emmerson beats Tim Purcell to net merit win

Borough Bowling Club President Steve Taylor handing out selection boxes to the Winter Merit finalists with other competitors looking on

There were representatives from all nine local clubs in the East Coast association, writes Sue Wilkinson.

It was a cold day but the rain held off making it keen bowling on a good surface.

Two players from Whitby Bowling Club made the final, with the experienced Tim Purcell taking an early 15-11 lead against the inexperienced 21-year-old Josh Emmerson in his first-ever final.

Borough President Steve Taylor (centre) presenting the prizes at the club's Winter Merit

Josh wasn’t going to be overawed though and came back to take an 18-15 advantage.

Tim then came back and levelled things before Josh bowled two superb ends to win the day with a 21-18 victory.

Tea and biscuits was won by Kenny Wale and Tony Allen 21-13 over Ed McCormack and Alan Lee.

Borough Bowling Club stalwart Ray Malton was the key figure in a winter competition.

Ray, who captains the Borough 3 in the evening league and won promotion ot the first division this season, played with 18 different members over the last few weeks in doubles matches against other members.

Winner of this qualifier was Barry Gosling who then partnered Ray in a final against runner-up Caroline Watson and third-placed Pete Charter.

The final was a top quality affair with Caroline and Pete just edging out Ray and Barry 21-20.

The club is now organising its second winter competition with another doubles tournament – the idea being more experienced bowlers are paired with those starting out in the sport.

The series of winter merits continue – weather permitting – with a competition at Whitby’s West Cliff green on Sunday December 18. It will be the Barry FitzPatrick doubles tournament.

The first merit of the new year will be at Westgate in Bridlington on January 8, followed, again, at Borough’s Manor Road green on January 15.

There is no need to register for the Sunday merits – turn up on the day at 8.45am for the draw and give your name to the relevant organiser. Entry costs £5 with two games guaranteed.