Hayling Island Anniversary Bowls Match

A lady bowler, Vi Young, contacted Havant Council to request a bowling green for Hayling Island and in 1977 the Council agreed and the green opened. Vi was quickly joined by Joan Lovey, Brenda King, Ena McCullie and Vee Moore and they soon began bowling in the P&D League.

The dress code at that time was very strict and consisted of a white, cream or grey skirt only, the length of which had to be over the knee - no trousers. Blouse was white or cream and had to have collar and sleeves. Stockings or tights had to be an approved colour and shoes could only be regulation brown. Blazers were worn, with white gloves for special occasions.

The following year men joined the club - Dennis Sivers, Harry McCullie, H Collins, Bob King and Bill Biggs.

The Clubhouse was a portacabin on the side of the green which was only replaced when the Community Centre opened and then one room was available to the club. Ladies and Gents shared this space along with a kitchen so small only one person at a time could use it.

In 1996, when the Community Centre was extended, the current arrangements were agreed and the club has gone from strength to strength with a current membership of 80-90 bowlers.

The club celebrated it’s 40th anniversary with a competition involving other local clubs. The picture shows Hayling bowlers at both ends with from left to right Bedhampton, Cowplain, Emsworth, Pagham, Petersfield, and Purbrook. The days bowling was won by the Cowplain team.

By
Russell Mckerracher
Posted on