THE ladies of Holsworthy and District Ladies skittle league ‘raised the roof’ as they celebrated 50 years since their formation in 1965.

Almost 200 lady players donned their party wear as they celebrated, with the help of entertainer and singer Johnny Cowling in Holsworthy Memorial Hall with a special presentation to four of the longest serving members.

Secretary of the Holsworthy and District Ladies’ Skittle League Bernadette Sluggett said: “To a great introduction the ladies raised the roof as singer-entertainer ‘Johnny Cowling’ came into the room.

“All evening he kept everyone in fits of laughter and sang many favourite songs.”

At the break the committee served a savoury supper, during which Johnny proposed a toast to the Holsworthy and District Ladies’ Skittle League’s 50 years.

He then made a special presentation to four ladies: Heather Richards, St Giles; Jean Moore, Clawton; Margaret Wickett and Elaine Walter, Pyworthy, who started skittles in 1965 and still play for their respective clubs.

Each received a piece of gold coloured Dartington Crystal inscribed with the league’s emblem.