Findhorn Bowling Club is open to new members
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A 116-year-old local sports institution is open to new members.
Findhorn Bowling Club (FBC), established in the summer of 1907, re-opened for the season on Sunday, May 14.
Club secretary Jane Kelso confirmed around 20 current members hope to attract new blood.
She said: “We managed to acquire a couple of new members that afternoon. The opening began with Deputy Lieutenant of Moray, Sue Finnegan, throwing the jack, followed by club president, Garry Rendall, playing the first bowl. We played six ends while the weather was kind, followed by tea and sandwiches in the clubhouse prepared by members. There will be another open day when the weather improves!”
A report in the Forres Gazette on July 31, 1907 covered the opening of the bowling and tennis greens in the village. Findhorn had found fame as a seaside resort and was trying to offer more entertainment to visitors. Parliamentarian Mr Munro-Ferguson of Novar Estate provided the site for the facilities at a nominal rate and erected a pavilion using his own money. Funds for the project were also raised through a community bazaar. Novar factor Mr Meiklejohn formally opened the greens.
The clubhouse in Church Place was rebuilt in May, 1992 and opened by late Moray MSP Margaret Ewing.
Jane believes joining has improved her wellbeing.
She said: “Being a part of the club enables me to exercise outdoors, meet new people and be part of the community.
“As for competition, when the club first formed there were over 100 members. As years have gone by and property in the village is turned into holiday lets, membership depleted so much the club came close to disbanding. However, a small core of locals is determined to keep it open and becoming competitive again.”
For more information call Jane on 01309 692365.
