The Herefordshire Short Mat Bowls Leagues winter season has reached its midpoint and the county leagues are taking shape.

In Division 1 Woolhope A, champions in 12 of the last 14 years, lead the way but Lea and Ross A each have a match in hand of the leaders and are within striking distance. Defending champions Woolhope B currently lie in fourth place and will be looking for a strong second half of the season to mount a challenge in defence of their title. Division one newcomers, Gorsley Chapel A, are putting in a creditable performance, currently in 5th place, in their first ever season in the top division.

In Division 2 Llangarron, who have come close to promotion several times in recent years, lead the way but the chasing teams are strung out behind them, separated only by small points gaps.

Ross B, Escley and Weston B are all within 10 points of the leaders so, with 10 points available in each match, one good or bad result could change the complexion of the table.

The draws have been made for the knockout stages of the Inter County Championship. The Premier team, who failed to qualify for the main competition, have a bye in the quarter finals of the consolation competition and will face the winners of the match between Cornwall and Wiltshire in the semi-finals.

The A team, who won their qualifying group, face West Midlands in their first knockout match.