Lancing bowlers delighted to be back on the green

Lawn bowls has been enjoyed as a summer sport up and down the country for many years, attracting people of all ages.
Back on the green and observing social distancing rules at Lancing BCBack on the green and observing social distancing rules at Lancing BC
Back on the green and observing social distancing rules at Lancing BC

It is quite a skilled activity which can be played at many levels including recreationally within clubs, inter-club Leagues or friendly competitions with other clubs, or for the more serious bowlers, there is an opportunity to compete at county or national level.

Lancing are a small friendly club of just over 50 playing members. They are open during mornings, afternoons and evenings throughout the summer and you can find them at Lancing Manor Grounds, just north of the A27.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The history of Lancing Bowling Club goes back to 1936 when the bowling green was dug and the club formed by a group of market gardeners from the Old Salts Farm Road area.

The first general meeting took place in August 1937 and in January 1938 Mr Pycroft and Mr WC Dunk guaranteed the club with a sum of one pound, six shillings and eight pence – and bowling commenced in the spring.

Founder member Mr CF Pycroft arranged for a Pullman railway carriage called The Princess Helen from the Queen Victoria Fleet to be placed by the bowling green to serve as a pavilion for Lancing Bowling Club and Lancing Manor Cricket Club.

The green was initially managed by Worthing Rural District Council, then once Adur District Council evolved, it took over.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

At first the club admitted men only, then in 1953 women were able to join. To date the green is maintained by Adur District Council and known to bowl quite well on most occasions.

The old railway carriage continued to serve as a clubhouse until it burnt down in the early 1970s. A new clubhouse was built and further extended at a later date to include a toilet block, changing rooms and equipment store.

The club badge, designed by Bill Harling is made up of four areas representing the history of Lancing: top left, the Crossed lances - forest oaks from the area were used to fuel the furnaces which made the lance heads; top right, the rampant lion was taken from the coat of arms for the Lloyd Family who lived in the Manor House; bottom left are the Fictitious Martlets, taken from the Sussex Coat of Arms; bottom right is the Book of Learning, representing Lancing College, which owned the Manor Estate after the Lloyd Family.

This year has brought a new chapter in the club’s history as they manage a gradual opening of the green following the coronavirus lockdown. In line with government and Bowls England advice, they admitted just six players at a time to the green from June 1. This has now increased to 12 and will increase further as time goes on. Indoor facilities remain closed apart from the store and toilets.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

By July 1 the club will be able to welcome visitors again and propose to restart their popular have-a-go sessions on Thursday mornings. The first two sessions are free. Please arrive by 10.45am and wear flat shoes. Bowls are provided. You will play from 11am to midday. Hand sanitisers are provided, but if you wish to wear gloves or face covering, please bring these with you along with any drinks or snacks you may need.

Please use hand sanitisers and hand washing facilities while on the premises. Social distancing must be observed.

For more information please telephone: 07387 650941/01903 911497 or go to www.lancingbowlsclub.com.

The club look forward to seeing you.

Related topics: