Friendly Matches

Updated  - 06/06/2026

The Registration Page and Team Selections for Friendly 'Challenge' matches

can be found in the Members Area

 

Opponents for 2026                           

During his time as Chairman, a role he performed between 1993 and 2004, Jack Bayfield, who was elected as Club President in 2004 and held the post until 2026, suggested that we should consider 'Friendly' matches played against neighbouring clubs as 'Challenge Matches'. His reasoning was he felt that all matches played should have a competitive edge.

Over the years these matches have remained friendly with a competitive rivalry between the clubs. Many friendships have been established and nurtured during the seasons. 

The clubs offering 'challenges' in our Friendly matches in 2026 are:

Great Melton - Hall Road, Great Melton, NR9 3BJ

Brooke - Norwich Road, Brooke, NR15 1AB

Hethersett Playing Fields - Memorial Playing Field, Park Drive, Hethersett, NR9 3EL

Hethersett Social Club - 38 Queen's Road, Hethersett, NR9 3DB

Shotesham - The Street, Shotesham, NR15 1XJ

Wicklewood - Behind the Village Hall, High Street, Wicklewood, NR18 9QA

Wymondham Dell - 54b Norwich Road, Wymondham, NR18 0NT

Registration lists for each match will be posted in the Clubhouse in advance.

Match reports will appear below the fixture table.

 

Fixtures and Results for 2026

Updated - 07/06/2026

Match Reports for 2026

Brooke - Home - 10th June

Today's match at home v Brooke went ahead despite looming black clouds and the threat of thunder and lightning, a wise decision as the rain held off until we had almost completed the game. The visitors were very complimentary about our green and proceeded to play so well that they secured a clear win, 59 v 23. However, as a very good-humored, friendly match , it was enjoyed by all and was an encouraging experience for the new members we included in our team. 

Bet Davies - Club Captain

 

Wicklewood - Home - 5th June

On a dry, if rather cool evening, on Friday June 5th, we enjoyed what proved to be a very friendly match at home against 3 teams from Wicklewood, despite locking one visitor in the toilet and a close encounter with a foolhardy pigeon on one rink.

The teams were very evenly matched with a difference of only I in the final total on 2 rinks out of 3, the Priory team winning 49 v 42.

As Captain, I wish to thank the ladies who provided the excellent tea that left everyone feeling highly contented.

Bet Davies - Club Captain

 

Hethersett Playing Fields - Away - 1st June

On Monday, June 1st, 2026, 8 Priory members enjoyed what was, in many ways, a bitter-sweet occasion, our potentially last away game against Hethersett Playing Fields, with 2 teams of 3 players and 1 pair playing a doubles contest.

As usual, it was a very hospitable and most enjoyable, if demanding experience. The roving cot was a challenge, especially for some of our newest members who were playing in their first away match for the club. However, the weather remained dry but not too hot, and, as most of us were already well-acquainted with some of their players, it proved, indeed, to be a very friendly match, with a decisive win for the home team - 76/24

Bet Davies - Club Captain

 

Shotesham - Away - 21st May

Shotesham Bowls Club 64,  Priory Gardens Bowls Club 23

On a very warm evening in Shotesham the home team adapted well to the bumps and dips in the green and some good play by them which led to us being beaten on all three rinks.

Well done to Julian Venables making his debut for the club.

We have to play these again in a friendly and also in the Age Concern League lets hope we do better in these matches.

Acting Captain Ivan Freedman   

 

Hethersett Social Club - Home - 13th May

This match was postponed due to heavy rain on agreement with the visiting club. The re-arranged fixture is 7th August at 6.00pm

 

Great Melton - Home - 7th May

This first friendly match of the season fully lived up to its name as several of us were already well- acquainted with members of the visiting team. The weather, unfortunately, was less friendly, grey throughout and rather cold. However, it was still a most enjoyable and keenly fought game, with Gt Melton winning on 3 rinks out of 4, with a final score of 69 v 53.

Bet Davies - Club Captain