MALVERN Victoria Bowling Club could not reward new captain Phil Wiggins with a victory as they suffered back-to-back defeats.

They did manage to win one rink against Tewkesbury with Christine Jones, Eddie King, Dave Hemsley and Shirley Smith finishing 18-16 on top.

But Tewksbury won the tie 90-71 and life did not get any easier against Ledbury who ran out 92-80 winners.

Sal di Chiara, Andy Davenport, Ann Pugh and Brian Costigan won 21 -14 and Jim Gatty, Andy Bowen, Richard Bosley and Stewart Parsons ran out 21-17 winners. But Malvern Victoria lost the other three rinks.

A club spokesperson said: “Before the start of the season, we were faced with a formidable problem.

“We were concerned that no club member had nominated themselves as club captain. Then just before our first match, Phil put himself forward and his offer was eagerly accepted. He is a fiercely loyal and committed member of the club.”