A bowling club is celebrating its new season with an open day for potential members – and an auction to boost its new clubhouse fund.
Hurst Bowling Club, said to be the UK’s second oldest bowling club, loves its history but has its eyes firmly on the future.
So they’re holding an open day to attract new members on Saturday April 20, from noon to 6pm, at its green in Church Hill, Hurst, behind the historic Castle Inn.
Last year’s open day resulted in over 40 new members.
Everyone is invited to have a go for free, you just need to wear flat shoes or trainers. Equipment, guidance and refreshments will all be available.
And they’re offering a 50% reduction on their annual membership fee if people join on the day.
Frazer Broomby from the club said: “We provide a friendly, healthy, outdoor, sociable and competitive activity in a beautifully rural setting. If you’d like to come to the open day please call me on 07804 297594 so we can book you in for a rink and instructor.”
As part of its work to raise £200,000 to replace their aged wooden clubhouse the club is holding an auction at Hurst Village Hall in School Road on Saturday, April 6, with viewing from 6pm and the auction at 7pm. Entry is £2.50.
Local businesses have donated items including beauty treatments, gym and meal vouchers, hampers, cases of wine, carriage rides, nail treatment, a gazebo, a coffee maker, a Concorde and Spitfire photo signed by a chief pilot, rare prints and books, a dolls’ house and toys.
MP and Sonning resident Theresa May is the club’s patron and has offered her support.
A signed copy of her book, The Abuse of Power, is among the auction lots.
Items can be viewed on the club website: www.hurstbowlingclub.co.uk
Pre-auction offers can be made to Brent on 07802 174837.