Skittles & Steam - Exeter Branch Saturday 4 October 2008.

Report by Amy

By Ken Vingoe

What can be said about a skittles match? Well this one was special in more ways than one. Michael Cannon steamed up his magnificent half-scale Showmen’s Engine named “The General”, which looked resplendent in its turnout on arrival in the pub parking area. Both Michael and the engine looked very pleased to be there and there was enough steam to give plenty of rides to those that felt adventurous and perhaps a few steam whistle hoots for those who needed more encouragement to take advantage of the opportunity. With many hands making light work, the many light bulbs were fitted and the engine was then illuminated with the electrical power being provided by the engine’s own belt-driven generator.

Later, when we’d all had enough fresh air (and it was very fresh!), we adjourned to the main event inside the cosy atmosphere of the pub. Within no time, teams were organised into ‘Wendy’s Team and Ian’s Team and I counted a total of forty names on the score board before we started the match. We played the first two legs before our break for a buffet meal, which went down very well with everyone. There were one or two people who arrived without previously booking, but it was pleasing that there was just enough food for us all. I expect that the “extras” made a little more money available for the Devon Church Bell Restoration Fund, which was the charitable cause that we were all supporting. Once the meal was finished and tidied away, we resumed the match with one or two exceptions for those that retired either hurt with bashed ankles, or with sheer exhaustion from the excitement of it all and played the third and final leg. The result was a win for Ian’s Team, although I’m left wondering if Wendy’s Team just graciously let us win. I am also wondering if it is harder to get a clearance of nine pins with three balls or to get three balls to the other end of the alley without knocking any pins over.

I’m sure everyone would like to thank Michael Cannon for his efforts in making the evening the special event that it was and a special “thank you” to the children, who tirelessly reset the skittles and returned the balls via the chute, keeping the momentum going for us all.

 

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