MEMBERS of Appleby Bowling Club are facing the future with confidence despite the difficulties of the past year caused by flooding of their green and club house last January.

Speaking at the club's 91st annual meeting, retiring president and treasurer Dave Sampson thanked everyone who rallied round to help. And lady president Pearl Lace commented that the refurbished club house was now the envy of many clubs in the area.

Mr Sampson said that, despite having no bar facilities for eight months because of the floods, the club's accounts were still healthy. Subscriptions were, however, raised to cover the increased costs of a bar licence and insurance. But junior membership fees were abolished.

Robert Clarke was granted life membership and the following principal officers were elected: President, Mike Phillips; Lady President, Kath High; Secretary, David Heath; Treasurar , David Sampson.

Appleby Bowling Club made a successful tour of Portugal with 35 members (pictured), drawn from Appleby and surrounding clubs, taking part in the ten-day holiday in Vilamoura. The Eden teams took second, third and fourth places in the tournament for all-comers with teams entering from England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. The tour was organised by Brian Dixon.