RECENT HISTORY

We moved into our new premises in April 2021 even though there were still some unfinished areas. Our old premises had been demolished to make way for new homes.

Our priority then, in addition to getting our equipment out of storage and furnishing the clubhouse was to offer taster sessions to the residents. We hosted meetings of the ‘Friends of Victoria Park’ in our new pavilion and tried where possible to support their annual Park event. Our bowling membership increased from around 40 when we moved to about 70 for our second season (2022), currently approx. 80.

Our focus is to introduce bowling to the local community and to encourage bowling for those with disabilities. We have 2 wheelchairs , 6 walking sticks and a ‘bowls buddy’ (provided with help from the Healthy Neighbourhood Fund)which can be used on our new all-weather bowling surface.  For the general public, we offer taster sessions in summer on Friday evenings & Sunday & Wednesday mornings and during winter on Wednesday & Sunday mornings as well as at 13.00 on Fridays. In winter we hold monthly chat and board games afternoons for members, families and friends. Many of our new members are from residents who have not bowled before. Bowlers from other clubs are also made welcome in winter when their own greens are closed. We endeavour to make them feel at home while they are with us.

We offer ‘Bowls Bash’ social evenings to family & employer’s groups,  encouraging children to take part if accompanied by an adult.

We have expanded  quickly and in addition our members have managed the administrative tasks of becoming an incorporated company, organised & developed our new bowling facilities and currently are negotiating a long-term lease for the pavilion. It has been very demanding for many. Members have been very supportive and have appeared to enjoy the various initiatives and challenges. Our thanks to members who volunteer to vacuum the green, clean the clubhouse, provide catering for social events and so many other activities which improve the club’s facilities and promote its activities.

Marion Whitney (President), February 2026