Return to the Green Story: Springhill BC

It's been a challenging 18 months or so for everyone in our bowling community due to COVID and the additional challenges restrictions have had on bowling club facilities. At times, premises have been closed and some members have been unable to take part in their favourite pastime. Our Return to the Green stories share news from clubs around the country who have managed to reconnect communities and members over the last few months by hosting different events and trying something new. One club in Kilmarnock had a special celebration in mind as they Returned to the Green this season.

2021 marks the 85th anniversary of the Ladies section at Springhill Bowling Club in Kilmarnock, and Honorary President Marilyn Milligan came up with the idea of holding a special day to mark the occasion. An afternoon tea event was organised with a glass of bubbly and refreshments, provided by the Bowling Club President, for all who attended.

Currently the club has 20 female members, 18 of whom were able to attend the event. Those present enjoyed looking at a selection of old photographs from the past 40 years, providing an opportunity to reflect on good times and also remember friends who had sadly passed away during that time. The clubhouse was beautifully decorated with flowers and there were gifts and cakes to accompany the celebrations. Josephine Lindsay, the longest serving lady member - having joined in 1980 - unveiled a special plaque to mark the anniversary.

Occasions and events like these remind us all about the positive impact bowling has on physical, social and mental health and wellbeing. 

The club’s fixture card has been decimated this summer and mainly restricted to internal matches, although a handful of games have been arranged with nearby clubs. With the end of the current season only a few weeks away, members are already looking forward to next season when it is hoped that a further sense of normality will resume. The winter months will also provide an opportunity to attract more members to join the club.

Thanks to Marilyn Milligan for sharing this story and wonderful pictures of the club’s celebration with us.