News Update
Marine Gardens BC – report for week ending Sunday 07/06/2020
(June 07, 2020)The opening of the green at Marine Gardens BC – 1st June 2020
“After the virtual Opening Drive of early May it was finally time for the real thing – 01/06/20 saw bowls resume at Marine Gardens. No “spider” in aid of the captain’s charity. No fun drive comprising 48 members with many more watching on. No clubhouse crammed with players enjoying refreshments and catching up with old friends and new gossip. Instead full adherence to the multiple health and safety guidelines stipulated by the government and Bowls England. For example, a maximum of 2 players per rink and only 3 rinks in use; both to ensure safe distancing.
The first players to experience the “new normal” were Jill Campbell and Roy Mills. Playing on separate rinks, it was a long way removed from the very social experience which normally typifies bowls at Marine Gardens. But they were just pleased to be back out there. As the sun beat-down they made way for Harry Tattersall, playing a lone hand on rink 1, and David Hughes and David Smith rolling up together on rink 3.
By now a large crowd of spectators were filling the benches which surround the green. Some were club mates supporting their friends, most were members of the public. Ice-creams were savoured, tea was drunk. Children played in the background. And as the players bowled on, with respectable consistency given the enforced lay-off, one could feel the relaxed mood of the gathering. For after months of anxiety and lock-down, perhaps nothing says normal and safe, like bowls on a warm afternoon in England; chatter, ice-creams and tea.
The guidelines for bowls are evolving and if clubs wish they can now play triples, that is six people on each rink.
At Marine Gardens it is also possible to give taster sessions to prospective new members. No charge, all equipment provided, all safe distancing regs observed. If you fancy giving this great game a try, then please call club coach Terry Urben on 01903 700662 to arrange a convenient time.”
Terry Urben. Press Officer.