Two local bowlers who were representing Ireland in last week-end's British Isles rinks (teams of four) championships in Wales played their part in helping Ireland to first place over Wales, Scotland, Isle of Man and England.

For St Michael's BC member, James McCaffrey, it was his first full international cap, and for his county colleague, Gary Burke (Wellington BC), it was another Irish jersey.

Each of the five competing nations were represented by four rinks and, at the finish, all the results were totted up for each.

For James, a native of Lisnaskea and a former member of the local St Ronan's BC, winning was the icing on the cake along with his first full international cap.

"It was fantastic, and a very emotional occasion. I felt very proud to be representing my country."

The Irish bowlers headed across to Wales on Friday, played over two days on Saturday and Sunday and returned home late on Monday night happy bunnies.