Bowls club in plea for members to avoid closure

SUTTON Bonington Bowls Club has launched an urgent appeal for new members in a bid to ensure the club doesn’t have to close its doors for good.

The club was formed in October 1932 and has been based in Landcroft Lane since day one, but membership has fallen over the years with about 30 people now playing on a regular basis.

Club spokesman David Bettany said despite its long history a lot of people don’t know they exist.

“It’s amazing that we seem to be the club no-one has heard of, with people living in the village all their lives not knowing we are here. We are keen to address this and recruit new members young and old alike to keep the club going.

“Throughout the club’s history members have celebrated significant anniversaries and have pulled together to keep it going. Those with practical skills have met weekly to keep everything in good shape whilst those with organisational skills have managed the teams and encouraged improving play, supported the bar and catering services and this still continues today.”

Despite the current low membership levels the club still competes in

numerous leagues but captain Michael Wright would like to increase membership once more, to ease the pressure on current members and introduce the younger members to competitive play in the league games.

New members are encouraged to join the club with a club session for informal practice and coaching held

each Wednesday morning alongside the U3A session, by participating in Saturday friendlies, or by personal arrangement with fellow members.

For more information contact Rob Russell on 01509 674047.

- cial feature on the history of the bowls club.

Sutton Bonington Bowls Club held their presentation dinner held at the Three Horse Shoes, East Leake David Bettany, won the Maiden Cup and went on to win the Men’s Four Wood Championship. The Lady’s champion was Linda Jackson. Grahame Lester won the Open Two Wood title as well as both the Two Wood pairs with Rob Russell and the Four Wood pairs with Trevor Jackson. The prizes were presented by club president, Michael Wright, who organised the event. Pictured from left to right: Grahame Lester, Lynda Jackson, Rob Russell, Trevor Jackson, David Bettany.