Grant will make vision a reality
HURST: A village bowling club’s vision for a new clubhouse is nearing closer thanks to a £10,000 grant from Berkshire Community Foundation.
Hurst Bowling Club club, based on Church Road, still runs out of a charming but outdated Victorian building which is too small for purpose and subject to flooding.
Plans are in place for a new, £170,000 timber-framed building that will have proper foundations and heating and incorporate a larger area, including a replacement toilet block.
The previous installation was destroyed by Storm Eunice earlier this year.
The popular club, which welcomes people from all over the village and surrounding areas, is also a home from home for groups that support the elderly.
It was one of just seven Berkshire organisations to receive a special award to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee for showing ‘outstanding commitment and service to the local community.’
Hurst Bowling Club representative, fundraiser, Veronica Ashley said it was ‘an honour and a privilege’ to receive one of the awards and to represent the club at the ceremony in the historic Windsor Guildhall.
As well as the financial aid, the club was honoured with a commemorative glass trophy plus an official certificate signed by Mr James Puxley, HM Lord Lieutenant of the Royal County of Berkshire.
“The award is timely for us, having had our Victorian toilet block destroyed by Storm Eunice. We now feel more secure and confident we will have our toilet block restored for the beginning of next season.
“Our elderly Link friends and our members will enjoy the use of that very essential small room.
Replacing our ailing Victorian clubhouse is an ambition too.
“It would help us to do so much more for our community.
“COVID and now the recession have tied our fundraising hands. We are determined though to preserve a part of Berkshire’s sporting history as well as ensuring that our designated ancient green is fit for future generations.”
Jon Bates of the Berkshire Community Foundation said:
“I hope this recognition exhibits to all the importance of our charities and voluntary groups to the wellbeing of communities.”