Local MP Alan Mak has officially open the newly installed all-weather surface at Hayling Island Bowls Club, and bowled the first ball on the new pitch.
The new £160,000 surface, which has been in construction since the summer of 2021, was opened following short speeches from both Mr Mak and Club President Brian Pullan. The funding for the project was provided by Havant Borough Council and Sport England, in addition to contributions from the Bowls Club. It is also expected that the club will take receipt of a new set of floodlights in December, which will allow play late into the evenings.
Local MP Alan Mak said: “I’m very pleased to have opened Hayling Island Bowls Club’s new all-weather surface and bowled the first ball. The Club has been at the heart of the community on Hayling since 1977 and this new pitch will help secure their future by enabling play all year round – one of only a few clubs in the southern region to have an al-weather pitch. Thanks to Club President Brian Pullan, Club Secretary Mike Wooding, the Committee and members and supporters for all the work they do for the Club and our local community.”
Following the opening ceremony, Mr Mak cast the first woods on the new green, followed by inaugural matches between the local Bowls Club, a team from Disabilities England, and the Dorset Youth Academy team. President Brian Pullan hopes that by inviting these clubs to play, they will highlight the inclusivity of bowls and encourage people that wouldn’t typically consider bowls to get involved in the sport.
Club Secretary Brian Pullan said: “I want to thank Alan for opening our new all-weather surface. It is brilliant for the Club, giving us much greater availability for members and novices who want to try out the sport. It wouldn’t have been possible without the continued support of our membership who all chipped in to raise the funds for this great community asset!”
