Relieved Dorey escapes ban

CRAIG DOREY is free to play outdoor bowls again next season. The island player had been threatened with an indefinite ban by Garry Collins, the chief executive of Bowls Guernsey, due to an alleged unpaid air ticket.

But Bowls Guernsey have discontinued their investigation into the matter, much to Dorey's relief.

'I'm just glad it's all over to be honest. It's been three months of hassle,' said one of the island's brightest bowls prospects.

Dorey is already targeting titles in 2005 and said he was excited at the prospect of teaming up with Dan de la Mare, island junior captain Todd Priaulx and the up-and-coming Bichard brothers in next year's fours league.

In a statement from Bowls Guernsey, Collins said the matter had been dropped 'due to conflicting evidence'.

He added: 'However, following this situation a new procedure will be introduced to reduce the financial risk to Bowls Guernsey.'

Collins, meanwhile, has six days to canvas support ahead of next Monday's annual meeting of Bowls Guernsey to be held at the Cobo Bay Hotel.

Reports suggest that he will be challenged for the top position in local lawn bowls.