DUTIES OF OFFICIALS

(1)     THE MARKER

The Marker shall

(a)       be familiar with the E.S.M.B.A. Laws of the Game.

(b)       be in possession of a reliable measure, callipers and chalk.

(c)       be in possession of the scorecard and pen or pencil and will see that the names of both contestants are entered.

(d)       make themselves familiar with the identifying marks on the bowls of each player.

(e)       witness the toss for the start.

(f)        see the mat is correctly aligned and place the jack on the jack line at the position required by the player to bowl first.

(g)       observe strict neutrality.

(h)       answer any questions put to them by the players BUT WILL NOT GIVE ANY INFORMATION unless requested.

(i)         not pass comments.

(j)         address ONLY the person who has possession of the rink mat.

(k)       record ONLY the score agreed by the players.

(l)         measure ONLY when requested, but will not cause any bowl to be moved until both players agree the shot or shots.

(m)     in any difficult measure not attempt to make a decision, but will call the Umpire to adjudicate.

(n)       keep the players informed as to the state of the game.

(o)       mark all touchers and remove the marks from any non-touchers.

(p)       remove all dead bowls from the ditch and the dead area.

(q)       adjudicate on all line bowls.

(r)        on completion of the game see that the scorecard is signed by the losing player and handed to the game controller or official.

(s)       ensure that all players, Umpires, spectators and other Markers in the vicinity of the head are made aware that a player has signalled their intention to play a forcing or firing shot and indicate to such a player when this has been done.

(2)     THE UMPIRE

The Umpire shall

(a)       enforce the E.S.M.B.A. Laws of the Game.

(b)       see that the game is continuous and played in a competitive and sporting manner.

(c)       be available for consultation on any matter or point of law concerning the game.

(d)       measure all difficult shots when requested.  They will tolerate no interference and their decision IS FINAL AND BINDING.

(e)       arbitrate in any dispute and their decision IS FINAL.

(f)        pass no comment, advice or praise.

(g)       remain strictly neutral and unbiased at all times.

(h)       be fully conversant with the Laws of the Game and any changes thereto.

(i)         carry an up-to-date Book of the Laws at all times whilst officiating.

(j)         only measure with such equipment as is approved by the E.S.M.B.A.

(k)       follow the code of conduct for Umpires as laid down by the E.S.M.B.A.

Any dispute not provided for in these Laws shall be decided by the Umpire whose decision shall be final.

(3)     SPECTATORS

(a)       Persons not engaged in the game shall be situated clear of and beyond the limits of the rink mat.

(b)       They shall neither by word or acts disturb or advise the players.