Page 6 - Oundle Life June 2021

BOWLING CLUB
Head for the green
Oundle Bowling Club started life not as you might expect, playing bowls, but grew out of a very popular pastime called Quoits.
Quoits was played
extensively and predominantly in rural areas
in the 19th century, with many clubs springing up in and around Oundle. The game initially played by farmers grew in popularity but was overtaken by a new game called lawn bowls in the early 1900s. The Oundle Quoits Club started out on some land in Herne Road, but by 1906 the club had changed over to bowls and became Oundle Bowling Club. The club had 4 rinks
and a small clubhouse, but with membership increasing rapidly, additional rinks were needed. Fortunately, as part of a plan for sporting venues in the town the then Urban Town Council offered some land in Occupation Road. The
club took up the offer and by the early 70’s the club was able to build a new clubhouse and a 6-rink green. Membership continued to rise, and various temporary building extensions were added to cater for the increase in membership.
The club’s membership is made up of those playing both outdoor bowls and indoor bowls. The outdoor bowls season runs from April to October, with indoor short mat bowls played during the winter months. For those who enjoy competitive play, friendly matches are arranged with local clubs throughout the season, as well
as internal competitions. The club is open to members to play 7 days a week for social and competitive bowling. Opportunities are also available to play in County matches and leagues.
Our social scene runs throughout the year and is open to members and guests. In the
past, these have included Burn’s Nights, Quiz Evenings, Cheese & Wine tasting, Dinners with Speaker, Barbeques, Summer Parties and more. The Club was recently further extended and refurbished including a new bar and additional space for functions. The Clubroom is available for hire at competitive rates.
Why not come and have a try at bowls? We are a very friendly club, open to all, including those living with a disability. We have a large free car park, spacious club room and bar. Never played before? Don’t worry, we have certified coaches on hand to get you started.
For information call Paul Pearson 01832 270312, David Walker 01832 272250 Oundle Bowling Club. Occupation Road, Oundle PE8 4RU www.oundlebowlingclub.org
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