Andy Thomson Visits Angels

Andi Thomson England Captain

The gates of the Angel Indoor Bowls Centre were decorated with balloons this morning, and there was no doubt that something very special was happening at the club today.  When I arrived inside there was an air of excitement and hushed concentration as England Captain, and former world champion, Andy Thomson was in mid-play with two of the club juniors. It must have felt tremendous for the boys to have been given the opportunity play a former world champion in their own sport.  That really doesn't happen very often to a budding young sportsman, whatever their sport, but for these two boys it was happening today at their home club in Tonbridge.  Alex Bishop and James Brooker put up a good fight against the champ but one loose end lost them the game, but smiles and autographs won the day.

Photo Opportunity with the England Captain

Andy Thomson was at the club to unveil the new carpet and to take on some of the club's best players, including very lucky member, Cyril Stares, who won a chance to play the former champion when his winning number was chosen in a raffle.

Cyril Stares and England Captain Andy Thomson

There was time available for a lengthy question and answer session with the England Captain, lunch and refreshments before play resumed for the afternoon.  Andy beat womens club champion Val Harvey, 2 sets to 0, but at one point in play Val shocked the England Captain with a 3. To round off the afternoon Andy played club champion Paul Gent, winning 9-5. Despite some good woods from Paul, Andy's class and shot play was evident

Andy's professional opinion on the new Angel playing carpet was that it had nice lines with no runs, and a decent speed.  He will be returning on 22nd October when the Angel face the Cyphers in the first round of the Denny Cup.

Last but certainly not least 'The Big Pink (charity) Breakfast Morning' will take place on Saturday August 6 at the club. Andi the chef will be preparing delicious breakfast dishes from 9 until 12 noon.  The cost is £5 and 50% - £2.50 - will be donated directly to the charity. Try to get along for this event as it is in aid of breast cancer.  It is also an opportunity to have a look inside the club, ask questions, find out what's on offer.  So why not take a break from shopping and enjoy a relaxing breakfast.  It is afterall for a very good cause.     

Andi Club Chef