Chairman's appeal for members to re-join the club

Post date: Aug 31, 2020 8:13:25 PM

Keen to attract members back after the pandemic lockdown, Stamford Indoor Bowls Club is anxious to stress it is open for business and will be re-starting a series of domestic leagues from September 14.

Though face coverings must be worn (not visors unless for medical reasons) and social distancing restrictions are still in place to keep bowlers safe, some rules have been relaxed, allowing bowlers some mask flexibility on the delivery mat (see spectacles news story below).

For newcomers to the sport attending initially on Saturday mornings from September 19 - and children who come to the junior academy on Thursday after school - coaches can now handle up to four bowlers per rink, instead of on a one-to-one basis.

Appealing for bowlers to return to action or discover the sport for the first time, chairman Keith Rippin says: “Almost 200 members have tried our newly-laid green in the last fortnight and sampled the safety measures we have in place.

"Many are coming back for a roll-up during our trial re-opening period, so if bowlers want to see what we have on offer as we endeavour to eventually return to normal service, they are invited to book their slot as soon as possible."

Bowlers can book a place on a rink by telephoning the club on any morning or evening from Monday to Friday (and Saturday morning from September 19) or alternatively book online (at our website) using their membership number and password with which they have been supplied by post or email on their subscription invoice.

Membership subscriptions, have been held at last year's rate and are due on the September 1. They must be paid by the end of the month to qualify for the rebate. However, subs may have to increase in January depending on the level of take up and the club's need to continue to pay substantial rent to the local authority each quarter regardless of whether or not it is open or how many members have re-joined.

Adds Mr Rippin: "We thank all those members who have already paid their subscriptions and particularly those who have made a donation on top of their fees. We also appreciate those who have availed themselves of the opportunity to join the monthly draw in which 50% of monies taken are given out in prizes. The remaining half helps us pay the bills to safeguard the future of the club, which is totally run by volunteers."

From Saturday, September 19 (10 am) coaching will re-commence for members who pre-book on line, by email or by telephone (01780 756452 when daily league sessions have reception cover). Non-members can also book or make enquiries by telephone at the prescribed times. A coach will be able to advise upto four trainees at one time as long as the two metre social distancing rules are observed

FOOTNOTE: Stamford IBC will contest the Denny Cup and will have two teams in the men's Over 60 double rink competition in 2020-21. The club has decided it will not contest the women's Yetton or Mason Trophy, nor the Egham mixed or Top Club. BW