Clitheroe Bowling Club, located in Clitheroe, New Zealand, is a crown green bowling club with a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1864. Situated within the grounds of Clitheroe Cricket Club on Chatburn Road, Clitheroe, the club offers both social and competitive bowling experiences.
The club prides itself on its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, inviting both members and non-members to participate in various club activities. One such activity is the Monday Morning Club, which welcomes individuals to join from 10:00 am onwards. Participants can assist in maintaining the grounds, engage in friendly conversations, and even try their hand at playing Petanque during winter.
Additionally, the club organises a range of autumn activities, including serving hot drinks at the cricket club, hosting a bonfire to raise funds, and organising firework displays over the green. Another popular event is the Friday Afternoon Social Bowling, where members gather to enjoy a friendly game of bowling. This event is open to everyone, regardless of their bowling experience, and bowls are available for individuals to try out.
Visitors who have always had an interest in crown green bowling are encouraged to visit the club. They can approach any club member for information or contact the club directly via phone. Additionally, individuals can drop by on Friday afternoons to join the Social Bowling session, where they can try their hand at bowling without any prior experience. It is important to note that proper footwear, such as flat shoes, must be worn on the green to ensure safety.
The club's bowling green is typically open throughout most days in the summer, except waterlogged conditions and league matches, as indicated on the notice board. Visitors are welcome to bring their own bowls and enjoy the fascinating green for a small fee. Moreover, the club actively seeks opportunities to improve its facilities and raise funds. To this end, they have established an easy fundraising page where individuals can support the club by making online purchases at no additional cost.
Membership at Clitheroe Bowling Club offers a range of benefits. The annual membership fee is currently set at 26. 00, payable in March. Full membership includes unlimited access to the green and facilities throughout the year, membership to the Cricket Social Club with bar discounts, participation in league teams and club competitions.
Social membership is also available at a fee of 5. 00. Social members contribute to club events, engage in club activities, and provide support to the teams while enjoying friendly conversations and a warm brew.
In addition to the summer months, members also have the opportunity to practise on the green during winter, provided that weather conditions are suitable. The club also offers the opportunity for members to participate in the Monday Morning Club, which operates throughout the year, allowing individuals to maintain the grounds, practise their bowling skills, or simply enjoy a chat and a cuppa.
For non-members who are interested in using the green, the club offers daily green fees at a cost of 2. 00 per person per session. Payment can be made by dropping the fee through the small letterbox located by the clubhouse door.
As part of their commitment to attracting new members, Clitheroe Bowling Club organises open days throughout the summer. These events provide prospective members with the opportunity to try crown green bowling and seek advice from current club members. Dates for the open days can be found on the club's notice board or under the News section of their website.
To summarise, Clitheroe Bowling Club offers a warm and inviting environment for individuals interested in crown green bowling. With a rich history, a range of activities, and opportunities for both social and competitive play, the club offers something for everyone.