Chris Mann & Jon Sparham of Wymondham passed their umpiring test last week and made their first appearance on official duties at the high profile British Isles Top Team Championships at Norfolkâs Hingham venue at the weekend. Officiating alongside International Umpire John Turner and an experienced Irish umpire the two lads impressed on their umpiring debut in a keenly fought weekend of bowls between West Mids, Oriel & Pembrokeshire. Norfolk Chairman Selwyn Goldsmith had made a request for county bowlers to take the umpire test following difficulties in providing enough umpires for I.C.C matches in Norfolk and said he was delighted that two of his bowlers at the younger end of the age range had taken his request on board. With Chris & Jon currently serving as NCSMBA Competition Secretary and Assistant Competition Secretary they are now able to cover umpiring duties at those events as well. Any other NCSMBA members who are thinking of becoming umpires please do not hesitate to contact Chris or Jon who will be delighted to give you advice on what it entails.
