ATHERLEY and Banister Park marked their centenaries with prestigious fixtures on their respective greens against the English Bowling Association.

Yorkshire-based national president Ian Woodcock from Hull headed a distinguished team that included senior vice-president Peter Arnold (Kent), junior vice-president Cliff Waterman (Suffolk), four past presidents, four county presidents and invited officers.

Both clubs enjoyed a memorable occasion with a tremendous spirit on the green and hospitality at its best towards the visitors.

"A brilliant day," said Atherley president Roger Stonham, and his Banister Park counterpart Bob Kirton.

In his speech at Stoneham Lane president Woodock outlined the changes in the world from 1906 to 2006 which were "almost beyond belief". In reply Kirton described the important role Southampton bowlers had played in the development of the game and the creation of the EBA as well as the London and Southern Counties BA.

The match results were irrelevant but, for the record, Atherley won and Banister Park lost.

Atherley continued their celebrations this week by releasing 100 balloons in their green and red club colours to mark Founders' Day - the exact day in 1906 when the club came into being.