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DO YOU HEAR THE PEOPLE SING?

What a dilemma! To spend the rest of what’s left of Saturday night and watch the new DVD of ‘Les Miserables’ or buckle down and write my C and B News article? Well, if my regular reader is following this then obviously duty won! But I did compromise by listening to the 25th Anniversary Concert of ‘Les Mis’ while I was writing. Unfortunately the writing isn’t as inspirational as the music!
The outdoor Bowling season is now underway and while it is early yet to talk about results there have been a few early highlights. Our Ladies’ team is just starting their league season and have had some encouraging early results in the Scottish and local competitions. Both our Men’s teams in the Water of Leith (WOL) Leagues have had better starts to the new season than last. Last year the First XVI suffered heavy early defeats but have gained points in each of this season’s first 3 games and this week secured their first win in a 4 – 1 victory over our local (friendly) rivals Currie BC. That score was matched by the Second XVI who has started the new season with 3 wins out of four. Our WOL Seniors Team also gained the early ‘bragging’ rights over our neighbours from Currie by winning 3 – 2 in the second game of the season and this week secured a memorable 5 – 0 victory over Carrickknowe BC. Our West Edinburgh Seniors Team has been encouraged in its quest to stay in Division 1 by gaining points in each of its opening matches with two 3–2 losses and one 3-2 win. They lost 4–1 this week to Bainfield B but that hides the fact that one rink only lost by two points while the other drew.  
Mention of the Seniors reminds me that at this time last year we were celebrating Simon Mackay’s 90th birthday. Sadly Simon is no longer with us but it was significant how often he was fondly remembered by our opponents during each of our opening games.
Also, as I write, I’m conscious that Club Member Graeme Dunn will tomorrow abseil off the Forth Rail Bridge in aid of Royal Blind. I understand Graeme has exceeded his initial fund raising target but further donations would be welcome and can be made through http://www.justgiving.com/Graeme-Dunn.
Lastly, I’m delighted our Ladies have resurrected their Coffee Mornings on Farmers’ Market Day. Tea or coffee and a biscuit in pleasant surroundings, an opportunity to arrange to try bowling….what a bargain! I don’t know about the people but I can hear me singing on the way there! TTFN!

Charlie Husband OBE
Past President