Bowled over

Postman Eric Pavey’s bowling exploits have been recognised with a call-up to the England short mat bowling squad.

‘I belong to a group of churchgoers and we wanted something for the men to do as a hobby,’ said Eric.

‘We decided on short mat bowling as it’s perfect for the village hall. The first time I picked up a bowl, I thought, “yes, this is for me”.’

Short mat bowls is similar to lawn bowls but is played indoors, making it a year round sport. Because the necessary equipment is transportable and easy to set up, it is a perfect fit for locations that are already used for other purposes such as village and school halls or sports and social clubs.

Eric soon developed considerable prowess as a short mat bowler and began competing in tournaments at local and county level, organised by the English Short Mat Bowling Association.

He spends most weekends practising and is now celebrating a call-up to the England squad.

Based at our Sidmouth delivery office, Eric hopes to become part of the squad for the British Isles short mat bowling team when the new season starts in September.

The British Isles team comprises England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland and the Isle of Man.

‘Being part of that squad would be the pinnacle,’ he said.‘I’d love to represent the British Isles across the world.’