Save a Piece of Neston's History: A Plea for Support for Neston Crown Green Bowling Club

(blog produced by NCYC on behalf of Neston Crown Green Bowling Club)

Thank you to Ian Norris for content information     

For more than a century, crown green bowling has been part of the fabric of Neston life. Today, however, Neston Crown Green Bowling Club faces a very real risk of closure unless they can attract new members and rebuild the club for the future.

The club, based at Stanney Fields Park, traces its roots back to the early 1900s when bowling became established alongside what is now Neston Civic Hall. Generations of local residents have enjoyed the game here, creating friendships, competition, and community spirit that have endured for decades.

Sadly, membership has declined in recent years; they are now down to around 20 players (with some currently unable to play) and field just one team in the Birkenhead Veterans League, where each match consists of ten singles games. While their dedicated members continue to keep the club going, they urgently need new bowlers to join them over the next two to three years to rebuild the club and ensure that this valuable community asset survives.

Many people think bowling is only for older generations, but nothing could be further from the truth. Crown green bowling is a sport for all ages, abilities, and mobilities. It provides gentle physical activity, improves balance and coordination, supports mental wellbeing, and offers a fantastic opportunity to spend time outdoors in the fresh air.

Just as importantly, bowling brings people together. In a world where social isolation is becoming increasingly common, the club offers friendship, laughter, and a sense of belonging. Whether you are retired, working part-time, looking for a new hobby, or simply want to meet new people, you will be warmly welcomed.

The Stanney Fields Green is open from mid-March, with the main bowling season running from late March or early April until early September. The home league matches currently take place on Wednesday afternoons, and many members also enjoy informal social bowling on Sunday mornings.

Bowling is one of the most affordable sporting and social activities in the area. Membership not only enables players to participate in club activities and competitions but also allows members to use the bowling green whenever it is available throughout the season. For far less than the cost of a monthly gym membership, members can enjoy regular exercise, fresh air, friendship, and access to a wonderful community facility.

If you have never played before, don't worry. The club will provide training, guidance, and support for new and inexperienced players. You do not even need your own bowls to get started. All they ask is that you wear flat, non-heeled footwear, such as trainers, when using the green.

Beyond league matches and practice sessions, the club also hosts an annual competition for its silver cup, providing a friendly challenge and a chance to celebrate the season together.

We know there are many people in Neston who care deeply about preserving local heritage and strengthening community life. This is an opportunity to do both. By joining the club, encouraging a friend or family member to try bowling, or simply helping the club spread the word, you can play a part in securing the future of one of Neston's longest-standing sporting traditions.

The ask is not to save a bowling club but to help save a piece of Neston's history, a place that promotes health, wellbeing, friendship, and community connection.

By attracting the next generation of bowlers now, Neston Crown Green Bowling Club can continue to thrive for many years to come.

Come along, give it a try, help keep this wonderful local tradition alive – and ensure that it prospers and thrives for years to come.

For more information please contact Neston Crown Green Bowling Club on 07579765585.