02/05/2026
Tattibogoes from Hereford Crowned Champions at Serious About Skittles Weekend in Torquay
The Derwent Hotel in Torquay played host to an unforgettable weekend of competition as 32 teams gathered for the Serious About Skittles tournament from 24–26 April. Emerging victorious and unbeaten throughout were the formidable Tattibogoes from Hereford, who once again demonstrated why they are one of the most successful teams in the sport.
The team were elated with their triumph. “We were overjoyed,” said team captain Martyn Reid. “It had been a couple of years since we last won, and the whole team were buzzing. We played some excellent teams who provided stiff competition all weekend, so to come through undefeated made it even more special.”
Despite their dominant run, the journey wasn’t without challenges. A difficult Saturday afternoon match tested the team’s resolve. “We hit a wall, probably too much partying the night before,” Reid admitted. “After two mediocre legs, we regrouped, encouraged each other, and found our rhythm. It turned out to be our lowest total of the four games, but it kept us on track for the finals on Sunday.”
The Tattibogoes’ story stretches back decades. Formed in 1991 from a group of friends who had been playing skittles together since their youthand in some cases for over 40 years the team is built on deep-rooted friendships forged through school, college, work, and the Hereford & District Skittle League. Today’s touring squad blends long-standing players with former teammates and close friends, including two dedicated members, Barry and Phil, who travel from Belfast and have never played skittles anywhere else.
Their relationship with Serious About Events is equally longstanding. The Tattibogoes have attended the skittles weekends since 1997, reaching finals day on 24 occasions and winning the tournament outright 12 times.
The team’s success extends far beyond the weekend. Competing in the historic Hereford & District Invitation League established in 1902 they are the league’s most decorated team, boasting 18 Division One titles and 63 cup victories. Their 2025/26 season has been particularly impressive, securing Division One Championship honours for the sixth consecutive year, alongside wins in the Front Pin Cup and Knockout Cup, and a place in the semi-final of the Champions of Champions.
Off the alley, the team is a diverse mix of professions, including construction managers, social housing specialists, letting agents, a transport manager, an electrical engineer at Cadbury’s, a care worker, an author, and even a ghost hunter. Among them is Rob Weale, affectionately known as “Boobie”, who has competed in six Commonwealth Games and is a multiple lawn bowls gold medallist, though still prone to the occasional low score in skittles.
What truly sets the Tattibogoes apart is their bond. Lifelong friendships underpin the team, with members supporting each other through all stages of life from weddings and children to grandchildren and beyond. Many have been best men at each other’s weddings and are godparents to each other’s children. “Win, lose or draw, it’s the friendship and supporting each other that shines through,” added Reid.
The team is also rich in character and tradition. Phil and Barry joined the squad after meeting Rob at the Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur and have been ever-present since 2015. Family ties continue to shape the future, with younger generations already stepping in as “sticker-uppers” and potential players. Past legends, including brothers Les and Dave Ball, remain fondly remembered for their contributions in the early years.
Among their many traditions was a Saturday morning football match during the Torquay weekends a ritual that lasted 22 years until 2019, when a passing couple asked if they were playing walking football. “That’s when we knew it was time to hang up the boots,” Reid joked.
Hereford & District Skittle League Hereford Times BBC Hereford & Worcester
