SIXTY years of friendship and competitive skittles was celebrated by 100 past and present members of a Holsworthy league.

In September 1965 the Holsworthy Ladies Skittle League was formed with teams from Clawton, Milton Damerel, Morwenstow, Pyworthy and St Giles with Clawton. Milton Damerel and St Giles still having teams.

On September 21, 100 past and present players met in Holsworthy Memorial Hall to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the league.

The hall had been decorated beautifully, with league president Alma supplying the table and pedestal arrangements and other ladies creating displays with balloons — this all provided a colourful backdrop for the celebrations.

A Holsworthy Ladies Skittle spokesperson described the programme of exciting events: “The afternoon started with a stage show from a magician – Roger who also entertained each table as they enjoyed the afternoon tea.

“A sumptuous tea, provided by Jackie Pett was enjoyed by everyone and afterwards league chairman Bernadette spoke briefly about the league and proposed a toast to it’s future.”

During the evening a bouquet was presented to Elaine Walter from Pyworthy who had played in the very first season.

The spokesperson said: “It was wonderful that she was able to join us.”

A tea and bouquet were also delivered to Heather Richards from St Giles who was unfortunately not well enough to attend but is the other surviving player from the first season.

The spokesperson added: “Finally we were entertained by 14 year old Eliza who sang to us – what a voice this young lady from Holsworthy has – she is sure to go far.

“This concluded a wonderful celebration and we are all looking forward to the new season and the start of the next 65 years.”

To find out more about the Holsworthy Ladies Skittle League visit www.facebook.com/groups/808770294317604/about