THE annual skittles competition held at Sandford Cricket Club saw the total raised for Dunnottar School in St Lucia reach in excess of £5,200 since its inception in 2002.

Organiser Nicky Radnor told the Courier: “When I started this we raised £100 which was spent on items such as shoes and transport so pupils could actually attend school.

“Last year the money was used to buy a specialist walker to enable a child to walk, to pay specific school fees, sponsor lunches and transport and also to pay for two autistic children to have swimming lessons.

“The amount we now raise has increased due to the number of teams taking part, a raffle where all prizes are donated (thank you to all of you) and the cricket club making a donation based on the bar takings for the two-week competition.

“Initially 25 teams entered this year with one dropping out early, meaning the first round was played over six nights involving four teams playing in a round Robin.

“However, the non-arrival of one team without notice not only disrupted that evening’s order of play but obviously had an impact on monies raised.

“Another team dropped out two days before but fortunately this gave me time to find a replacement so that games could go ahead as planned.

“However, this probably accounts for the fact that for the first time in four years our profit of £554.84 (before engraving) has gone down from the previous year.

“On the positive side all those taking part enjoyed the event and will hopefully join us again next year. It was certainly encouraging to see some new young players be enthusiastic about the event.

“Thanks must go to the cricket club for supporting me in this and in particular to the voluntary bar staff who willingly give up their time to help.

“Thanks also go to Graham Baker who marked the board on finals night.

“The event culminated in a three-way sudden death play off to establish the winners. The trophy eventually went to The Theedoms with Alan’s Avengers as runners-up.

“Prizes were also awarded for highest scores as follows: Lady - Debbie (Westernlea Warriors) 41; Gent - Mike (Alan’s Avengers) and Jack Ilsley (Nomads) 46. Jack deserves a special mention as his 46 included a spare with his non-dominant hand (a rule for teams made up of all skittlers); Leg - Bits and Pieces 48.

“The event finished with the customary game of killer for the Chris Clement Cup which was won by David Searle (Alan’s Avengers).

“Once again, a huge thank you to everyone who took part either by playing, supporting, donating raffle prizes or helping out on the night, your help is really appreciated and having worked as a volunteer in the school I know just how much it means to staff and pupils. Long may the event continue.”