Return to the Green Story: Ardentinny and Polmaise BC's
Last year Bowls Scotland launched a Thank You Frontline Workers Campaign, encouraging clubs to offer free membership to new members to celebrate their frontline contribution throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
The main objectives of this campaign were to show appreciation to the tireless contributions made by frontline workers and to highlight bowls clubs at the heart of their local communities. A number of clubs across the country signed up to the campaign and we are delighted to have had some feedback and success stories as part of this season’s Return to the Green initiative.
Ardentinny Bowling Club near Dunoon in District 26 halved membership fees for new members last season and their Club Secretary, Robert Devine, told Bowls Scotland that they have extended this offer into the 2021 season too. Whilst Ardentinny didn’t host any special events during the 2020 season as part of the campaign they were proud take part. Robert says the club “signed up to the campaign because we were very thankful to all the frontline workers in this pandemic”.
Peter Black from Polmaise Bowling Club in District 9 told us that his club also halved membership fees for new members to thank those at the frontline and will continue this through the 2021 season. Last year, Polmaise ran a Target Bowls afternoon with a free BBQ and sweets and trophies for the children that attended and already this season have 5 new members at the club! In respect of the current Covid-guidance, Peter explained that in 2021 the club intend to run small competitions and hat days within the rules and regulations, inviting the junior members to take part.
Offering a reduced membership for new members is a great way to reconnect the community at this time, introducing people to the sport of bowls in a safe, outdoors environment.
Bowls Scotland are encouraged to see clubs gaining new members after what has been a challenging 15 months for everyone.
We would like to thank Ardentinny BC and Polmaise BC for sharing their Return to the Green Stories with us.