FOUR bowlers from Dartford have pulled off a tremendous win in the English Bowls Association Championship, held in the Potter's Leisure Centre at Hopton-on-Sea, Norfolk.

Marilyn and George Haskins teamed up with Valerie and Trevor Archer to win the competition, which attracted 105 teams from from as far afield as Sunderland and the Isle of Wight.

After five days of intense bowling at the venue where the World Championships are held, the Dartford team was unbeaten after playing eight games.

There was some excellent bowling in the final, but the Dartford quartet won by one shot against a strong Lancashire side in front of a big and enthusiastic crowd.

Trevor Archer said: "We've never achieved anything like this before. We thought we bowled the best ever we've played, but had a bit of luck when we looked like losing.

"There was no way we expected to win and we'll be going back next year to defend the title.

"We also have George in our team, who is one of the top bowlers in the county and has bowled outdoors for Kent.

"There was a bit of pressure with the crowd watching, but there was a good atmosphere and they applauded when we did a good bowl."

The team played in a group of five with the mixed counties, where they won three, drew one and finished top, which took them through to the knockout stage of the last 16.

They then succesfully came through three ties to set up the final against the Lancastrians.

The two couples mainly play outdoor bowls during the year at Acacia Hall Sports & Social Club and various venues around Kent.

Although this victory was indoors, the dynamic husband aand wife duos prefer the outdoor life.

Trevor added: "There aren't too many indoor clubs and we do prefer to play outdoors, especially in the better weather.

"It's a chance to get some fresh air and a bit of sun on your back. The rink isn't perfect which makes it interesting, while indoor bowls is more mechanical.

"My wife and I first became interested in bowling a few years ago. I had retired and thought I'd try it and I enjoyed it. When my wife Valerie retired, she followed

"It's a good social game, where you get a chance to meet other people, and the good thing about bowls is that anyone can play it."