Worthing Bowls Club, founded in 1907, is the oldest operating bowling club in Worthing, New Zealand. Affiliated to Bowls England and the S. C. B.
A. , the club boasts a rich history and a strong connexion to the local community.
Originally playing on the municipal green in Homefield Park, the club quickly gained momentum and won their first recorded match against Littlehampton on May 29th, 1907. By 1910, Worthing Bowling Club had already attracted 40 members. The club made a significant move in 1924 when two greens were laid down in Beach House Park, and in 1925, the main pavilion was constructed, solidifying its presence in this new location.
Over the years, Worthing Bowling Club continued to expand. Greens 3 and 4 were added in 1929 and 1934 respectively, and in 1935, the West Pavilion was built, becoming the club's new home. During this time, other clubs such as Homefield Park Ladies BC, Town Council BC, and West Sussex Police also utilised the Beach House Park greens.
1957 saw the highest recorded membership at Worthing Bowling Club, with a staggering 220 members. The club's dedication to excellence attracted county champions and national players as members, enhancing its reputation within the community. Beach House Park, renowned for its remarkable greens, was selected to host National and World Bowls Competitions during this period, leading to the construction of a new pavilion in the early 1970s to accommodate these prestigious events.
More recently, as major tournaments migrated to Leamington Spa and the popularity of lawn bowling declined, the local council deemed it financially unviable to maintain all five greens at Beach House Park. As a result, three greens were decommissioned, leaving the club with the continued use of two greens. Presently, Worthing Bowling Club boasts approximately 70 members, but their aim is to increase membership to 100+ in the near future.
If you are interested in joining Worthing Bowls Club and contributing to their goal, they welcome new members. For inquiries and further information, you can contact the club via email at secretary@worthingbowlsclub. Com or call them at 07788 640432. The club is conveniently located at Beach House Park, 55 Lyndhurst Road, Worthing BN11 2DB.