The European Bowls Team Championships began in Jersey ©EBU

Defending champions England enjoyed a winning start as the European Bowls Team Championships began in Jersey today.

The English clinched 12-5 and 7-5 wins over Hungary as mixed fours action began the action at the Les Creux Bowls Club on the Channel Island.

Only the mixed fours in the morning session were completed as rain cut short pairs action in the afternoon.

It means that play will begin at 8.45am tomorrow to finish the second session.

Hosts Jersey suffered a disappointing start in the mixed fours as they lost 9-2 and 5-4 to Scotland.

Guernsey beat Ireland 10-0 before a 5-5 draw, with Israel hammering Germany 14-4 and 17-0.

The Netherlands won twice against Switzerland, 10-3 and 9-3, with Spain beating Turkey 9-2 and 8-5.

There were two big wins for Wales against France, 15-0 and 13-1.

The clashes between Isle of Man and Cyprus were the only contests to have split victors.

The Manx won 6-5 before the Cypriots returned the favour by winning by the same scoreline.

England are aiming for a third title in a row.

A full day one leaderboard will be available when the rearranged action concludes tomorrow.