MEMBERS of Helensburgh Bowling Club are hoping to welcome some new players, as well as plenty of familiar faces, to the club’s green when the new season begins later this month.

The club is celebrating its 160th anniversary this year – and while Covid safety procedures will mean that the atmosphere, on and off the green, will be rather different to the one that members were familiar with up till 2019, the enforced limits on organised sporting activity – of all kinds – means the appetite for the game in Helensburgh, is, if anything, even stronger than it is usually at this time of year.

The green in East Abercromby Street will be open for play from Monday, April 19 onwards, with all the appropriate safety procedures in place – and there is plenty of opportunity for new players to come along and learn the game as well as for players of all experience levels to take part in competitions or simply to play for fun.

The ever-increasing spread of the vaccine roll-out means hopes are high for something that might approach a more “normal” season – after a 2020 campaign in which Helensburgh’s bowlers rose above the challenges presented by the early weeks and months of the pandemic.

The club’s lady captain, Helen Lawrie, told the Advertiser: “Last year, outdoor bowling was available at the club from June through to mid-October.

“We extended our season and competitions were played. Health and safety procedures were followed regarding Covid-19 restrictions and members were assured that they were playing bowls in a safe environment.

“It was a haven of calm in troubled times and members benefited enormously.

“Carpet bowls followed and members had a socially distanced game and a cuppa. It was good to meet others and get out of the house again.”

Bowls keeps you fit, both physically and mentally, as well as providing the opportunity to socialise with others of all ages, abilities and backgrounds.

Free coaching is also available, as is the use of the club’s own bowls. A special ‘new to bowls’ adult membership is also available at £50 for the first year.

To find out more about the club and about becoming a member, contact Eddie Claisse on 07494 910168 or George Sneddon on 07929 569933, or email HelensburghBC@outlook.com.

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MEANWHILE, a new and socially-distanced season is under way at Colgrain Bowling Club in Helensburgh.

Brilliant sunshine graced the start of the new outdoor season last Saturday, when president David Petrie and vice president Vince Carr, threw the first bowls of the year on the new green.

Members came to support the opening, with social distancing measures in place, while Mr Petrie reminded everyone of the Covid prevention measures in place in and around the club to ensure safe bowling.

The club is offering anyone thinking of becoming a member a fee of £50 for full membership for their first year. Anyone interested in joining can find out more information by emailing colgrainbowlingclub@yahoo.co.uk.