2019 Season Summary
Prior to the season a new equipment shed was installed on a pre-laid concrete base, replacing the old shed that was demolished. In addition, a new resin-bonded pathway was professionally laid down the entry side of the green. This replaced the concrete flagstones that over the years had moved and represented a trip hazard.
At the start of the season, the benefit of the winter work conducted on the Green was clearly in evidence with it being in a superior condition to many other local Club Greens. In addition, throughout the season, members and visitors to the Club were able to enjoy the scenic beauty afforded by floral displays in the surrounding garden beds and containers.
Club membership increased by two (2019 - 57), compared to last year (2018 - 55) with eight new members joining, largely replacing inactive ones. This enabled all the matches to be well supported, facilitating the Captains jobs. A shortage of Lady Bowlers remained an issue.
Overall the Club had a successful bowling season, finishing 2nd in the Wessex Mixed Friendly League and 3rd in the Ladies South & West Somerset League. A Bowls Tour to the Bournemouth area took place in September. In addition, the membership enjoyed a number of Fun Days and Social Events. For the first time an Australian Pairs Competition was held as well as a Musical Soiree being arranged.
Sadly several persons associated with the Club passed away this year namely Gill McFarlane (wife of Treasurer, John and who had only recently joined the Club), Peter Drain (ex-Management Committee and long-serving member), Verdun Hayes (who did much to assist in creating the infrastructure of the Club in its formative years) and Derek Cooper (friend of the Club and husband of Welfare Officer, Liz).
This year the Recreation Ground Maintenance Committee was disbanded and replaced by a Recreation Ground Trust (RGT). The Bowls Club are mandated to nominate a Trustee to represent the Club and actively participate in its business. The RGT will now be the Club’s landlord and take over responsibility for our lease. Chairman, Phil Catlin agreed to take on the role of Trustee for the next three years.
Although the Club has obtained planning permission for a Pavilion extension and new toilets, the progression of this project has only proceeded slowly largely to delays in drawing up detailed plans and getting quotations for the work. Subject to approval of the membership, no work will commence to 2020 at the earliest.
Finally, tribute is paid to three of our longest serving Management Committee Members who will step down at the end of the year, namely Competition Secretary, Angela Pond: Club Captain, Dave Pond and Welfare Officer, Liz Cooper. Their contribution to the smooth running of the Club over the years is gratefully acknowledged.
