OPEN SINGLES – SPONSORED BY BIRKDALE INSURANCE GROUP

Saturday saw the seventh staging of the Club’s Open Singles, when players from throughout the area battled it out for the £220 first prize. 
In the top half of the draw, Liam Gregson of Skem Park Rebels reached the final with wins against Dave Gordon (21-14), Andy Draper (21-20) and in the semi-final, Paul Reardon from Brownmoor Brooke, 21-6. Paul had defeated the 2024 champion, Fergal Wright in a close quarter-final which finished 21-19. Liam’s opponent

in the final was 2022 champion, Darren Edgerley. Darren’s closest game on his way to the final was against Ian Grady of Skemersdale. At 19-20, Ian was lying game with two close bowls, only for Darren to rest on a side bowl to take the game 21-19. This was followed by close wins against Shaun Fisher and Aaron Backhouse, both 21-17.
The early stages of the final were close, with the jack changing hands and after 13 ends, Darren held a narrow 12-9 advantage. At this stage, however, Darren won 7 consecutive ends to run out a 21-9 winner. Congratulations to Darren on being the first player to win this title twice and to Liam on playing well all day to reach the final. 

The Hesketh Arms Bowling Club would like to thank all those who supported this competition by taking part or by coming along to watch. It was particularly pleasing to see a good number stay to the end, despite the weather not being as good as we would have hoped for. We would also like to thank the following :-   

• BIRKDALE INSURANCE GROUP for their generous sponsorship
• Everyone who helped out with marking cards and measuring
• Our referee for the day, Keith Andrews, who helped to keep the competition running smoothly
• Gill from the Conservative Club for preparing the sandwiches
• Lynne Smith for her help serving hot drinks
• Our Greenkeeper, Andy Bate, for preparing the green and surrounds

We look forward to seeing everyone again in 2026 for our open competitions.