Publication Date: 23-05-2023 09:00
Homebuilder funds Ryhope Bowls Club’s recruitment drive
Bellway is funding Ryhope Bowls Club’s initiative to recruit new members and attract more villagers to take up the sport this year.
The homebuilder’s Durham division, which is building homes at Barton Meadows, just half a mile from the club at Ryhope Recreation Ground, has provided £300 to fund the printing of new posters and flyers to invite more people in Ryhope to try out bowls.
Ronnie Bates, Chairman of Ryhope Bowls Club, said: “Recruiting new players is very important for the survival of our club in the long run because we do not have enough young players to guarantee our future right now.
“We sadly lost one of our keenest members to dementia last summer. Now we are down to 24 players and only one of us is still of working age while the rest of us are retired pensioners.
“Our club has given many villagers a chance to meet outdoors and enjoy the sunshine every summer for over 80 years. So, we are eager to bring younger players and families on board to ensure that our club can carry on for many more decades.
“I reached out to Bellway after my daughter told me that they have supported local sports clubs like ours before, and I was overwhelmed to hear that they were happy to fund our recruitment programme.
“This is a difficult time for grassroots sports clubs to raise enough funds to keep up with rising costs. We can’t thank Bellway enough for helping us in bringing more people to our club.”
Ryhope Bowls Club has been operating since the early 1940s and members compete in bowling leagues as well as inhouse competitions. New members are welcome of all ages and abilities.
Hayley Teasdale, Sales Manager from Bellway Durham, said: “We hope the recruitment drive at Ryhope Bowls Club will encourage more people in and around the village to take part in the sport.
“The club plays an important role in the village, helping people stay fit and active and providing an important social hub for people to meet. Attracting new members is key to its survival and continuation into the future.
“We are pleased to be able to play our part in making sure that the local community continues to enjoy bowls for many summers to come.”
Bellway is building 60 new homes at Barton Meadows, which is located off Rockliffe in the village.
To find out more, call the sales team on 0191 622 1727 or visit https://www.bellway.co.uk/new-homes/durham/barton-meadows.
