BOWLERS from Castle dominated a qualifier last weekend for the 2019 Cheshire Senior Merit, taking all but one of the seven places up for grabs.

Jason Cornes, a four-time former champion, led the way after eliminating Wharton Cons’ Glynn Cookson – another multiple winner – in a head-to-head at Lostock Social Club.

There was success too for Steve Morrey, crowned the county’s best in 2014, after he dashed the hopes of Joe Tomkinson (Owley Wood).

The others to secure their spot at next month’s finals day, to be held at Winnington Park Recreation Club, were Andy Hamman and Matt Hamman.

Meanwhile at Winsford Cons, Tom Vickers started what would become a successful day with wins against dad Alan and teammate Martin Kettle to progress.

He went on to win the Rudheath Spring Open for the first time later the same evening.

READ > Vickers claims first prize at Rudheath Spring Open

John Gurney, who reached the semi-finals last year’s Cheshire Senior Merit and competed at the British Individual Senior Merit as a reward, remains on course for a repeat after victories against son Jon Gurney, of Comberbach, and Daniel Nixon (Wharton Cons).

A third bowler to make it through from that section of the draw is Castle’s Dave O’Brien who ended the hopes of Conall Redmond (Davenham) and Tarporley’s Dave Johnson.

That group will now represent the Mid-Cheshire Bowling Association at the Cheshire Senior Merit on Sunday, June 23.

The Cheshire Junior Merit is scheduled to take place on the same day, also in Northwich.