ANDREW Squire became the first Essex bowler to reach the final of the National Two Wood Singles Championship.

The Maldon Bowling Club player finished as runner-up in the Bowls England Men’s National Two Wood Singles Championship, supported by Friends of English Bowling, at Royal Leamington Spa.

The Two Wood Singles is regarded as the most skilful draw shot competition of lawn bowls.

Squire’s strength in his game is his ability to be a consistent and accurate draw bowler and over the past 25 years he has dominated the two wood competitions at both club and local Chelmsford & District Association level, with an incredible record of over 35 victories.

In 2012, the two wood competition was introduced at County and National level and two years later he added the county two wood title to his achievements which he successfully defended this year.

At the National Championships, over a punishing two days, Squire faced a total of seven games against formidable opponets.

Squire started off day one with commanding victories against opponents from Hertfordshire (19-7), Kent (18-9) and Nottingham (18-20).

The final game of the day was his most satisfying and playing his characteristic high quality draw bowling game he had an impressive 15-5 win over current international Louise Ridout (Devon) that earned him a place in the quarter-final.

On day two victories over opponents from Dorset (14-11) and Middlesex (17-10) saw him progress into the final to be up against current international Jamie Walker (Northants).

Walker had the previous week been victorious in the National Champion of Champions Four Wood Singles Competition and started off firm favourite.

This was Squire’s hardest match and his opponent dominated the game from the start and despite a valiant effort it became obvious that Walker would be claiming the national title and won 17-3.