Histon Bowls Club is on the up! Club Chair Andrew Grimmer chats to Lucy Callington about the past, present and future of this much-loved staple of village life.
Other clubs and societies have come and gone over the years, but Histon Bowls Club, nestled between the pavilion and the tennis courts at the Rec, has a heritage stretching back over a hundred years.
It’s the pastime of choice for those looking for competition and camaraderie locally, without the sweat and the strain. And while the club already has a thriving membership, it is keen to broaden its appeal and entice new members in to help pass on the love of bowls to a younger generation.
Generation game
Newcomers can be sure of a warm welcome at the club’s well-kept home on New Road. “In recent times, we’ve had some ‘fresh blood’ joining”, says this year’s club Chair Andrew Grimmer, “but it would be great to welcome more younger members.”
People often have pre-conceptions of bowls clubs and it’s for that reason that Andrew – who has been a member for seven years, captain of one of the teams for three years and chaired the Club previously in 2023-24 – is keen to work on the Histon club’s image.
He says, “our membership has increased dramatically due to the summer open days and hard work by our members and committee, however, the majority of the ‘new blood’ is not quite so new!”
Andrew continues: “Our membership is still ‘of an age’, and while the average age may be slowly dropping, we still would like to encourage the younger generations to come along and try us out. All you need to join in is a pair of flat shoes or trainers – the club can lend you the rest”.
Sport for all
Founded in 1910, the club currently has over 50 members on its books. Members can play in roll-ups (where you can just turn up and play) or get stuck into the competitive side of the game by taking part in matches and leagues, competing for County and beyond.
The club also runs internal competitions and awards for individuals, teams and pairs – so there’s plenty of opportunity to see your efforts rewarded.
But, more than that, smiles Andrew, “it’s a very friendly place to meet and we have created a real camaraderie here. It’s not just about winning matches” – a point he is very keen to stress.
Instead, the emphasis is on the social benefits of being a member – the opportunities to meet new people or old friends and to spend time with family.
Member Sarah Allen is enthusiastic: “I turned up for a taster day three years ago with my late Father’s bowls and haven’t looked back! It’s truly addictive. The club members are friendly, welcoming, and generous with their knowledge. I was welcomed with open arms and invited to take part in competitions from the start”.
Sarah loves the fact that she can play as a family or with friends. She says: “no one minded if I had a bad game (we all have them), and I was excited about learning to play strategically. It’s also a great way to keep active, get outside in the fresh air, meet new people, and do something fun.”
Community club
The Bowls Club is lucky to have a great playing green too. “Our facilities have been improved in small but important ways, from repainting the Rec pavilion to having lots of colourful plants surrounding the green”, Andrew adds.
And work takes place all year round to maintain the pristine playing surface – helping to make play more enjoyable.
Community involvement is a strong focus too for the club. It has hosted the HI Dementia group, as well as a Brownie pack and is open to more visits in the future. And this summer the club will take part in the Recreation Ground Centenary celebrations (look out for info here on HI HUB.)
The bowls club is hugely appreciative too to the Histon Beer Festival, Parish Council and the Histon Feast all of whom have donated much needed funding boosts to the club over the years.
Open invitation
So, if you’re looking for a new challenge this year, why not head to the Rec and try your hand at something new. You’ll be in good company. “For those who worry that this is just a sport for older people – tune into the World Indoor Championships on YouTube, and you’ll see how young the World’s top players are”, says Andrew!
“Next time there’s an open event on at Histon Bowls Club, come down and give it a go. We promise you a warm welcome!”
For more information visit Histon BC or call club Chair Andrew Grimmer on 07849 687349.
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