Dorothy Billany was originally expelled from the club in April by committee members, but under club rules she could not be officially banned until all members voted her out.

Last week her expulsion was confirmed at the annual meeting, where members of her own bowling team also voted against her.

"I don't think they knew what they were voting for," said Mrs Billany.

"I just can't understand it. I run around after the bowling team like a scolded chicken.

"I considered them friends. One even took me to the airport not so long ago."

Mrs Billany was first asked to leave the club after she made a claim to the employment tribunal against the Conservative Club.

But she believes altercations in the past may have been to blame.

The tribunal ruled that she was never an employee, but she is now appealing against that decision - and believes she has a good chance of success.

"I am deadly serious about this, and will not consider bowling at the Conservative Club again until I have received a full apology from them," she said.

Mrs Billany is already lining up new venues for the Friday Night Bowling League, which begins again at the end of next month, although she is still entitled to use the bowling green at the Conservative Club.

Members of the Conservative Club committee declined to comment this week, stating Mrs Billany was no longer a member of the club.

"It is more important for us now to consider how we can keep the club afloat," said committee member Ken Shenton.