Reaping benefits of return to safe sporting activities

This sporting life plays a big part in the lives of Barrie and Caroline Watson.

The Yorkshire couple, both in their early sixties, welcomed the UK Government’s relaxation of lockdown rules.

Bowling Club secretary Barrie and his wife would normally play in league matches and competitions many of which were cancelled or curtailed during lockdown. Members were at times allowed to play in specially-devised COVIDsafe club contests and practice sessions; and similar procedures are now back in place.

“Bowlers have to pre-book slots on the green, only allowing four people together at once.

“Bowlers also have to sanitise bowls and jacks and socially distance. They are not allowed to shake hands. We also had to restrict use of the clubhouse,” explained Barrie.

He is also a committee member of a cliff-top golf club, where similar safety rules and a track and trace policy are in place.

The couple had to cancel foreign holidays and stage a sociallydistanced, outdoor 90th birthday celebration for Barrie’s mum. Barrie knows the importance of sport to physical and mental health, “it is a massive uplift to be able to mix with friends and enjoy the usual banter that surrounds any sport. We already have many members raring to go, now that rules allow.”