HIDDEN SMILES
AS INDOOR CLUB
REOPENS
Stamford Indoor Bowls Club re-opened this week after a five-month break because of the effects of the Covid lockdown with smiles of joy and relief hidden behind face coverings that still have to be worn.
Dozens took the opportunity to catch up with friends in a series of roll-ups on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday morning while others had the chance to compete in the depleted summer leagues on Monday evening, Tuesday lunchtime and Wednesday morning. The league continues tonight (Friday) from 6.30pm.
In a bid to encourage bowlers to get back in to the bowling habit following the last six months during which the club has been closed, the club urges all members to take advantage of available spare rinks - even alongside league activity - by booking slots online. However, in order to maximise income members and guests may need to share rink space with others (albeit social distanced with no more than 6 per rink).
We are also delighted to welcome back our caterers who started on Monday and are providing drinks, snacks, & sandwiches during the morning sessions together with hot meals at lunchtime. meals. It is Table Service only at present and face coverings must be worn in the dining area until seated.
Says chairman Keith Rippin: "It was great to see members back in the club and taking part from Monday morning onwards. But we must stress that precautions will still be necessary in the interests of the safety of others.
It has been an interesting time ensuring the necessary procedures are in place to protect members as even the EIBA's Chief Executive remarked "It certainly has been a unique time for the administrators over the last 14 months and one I would not like to face again. I may well enter Mastermind and have the specialist subject of COVID-19 Guides."
It is now possible to use pre-paid lockers again, though changing must still take place at the end of the rinks. Face coverings are still required currently but can be adjusted briefly while in the act of delivering a bowl. Precautions will be reviewed regularly and the club will keep members informed of any changes. Members are also requested to preferably pay by contactless card or provide the exact rink fee of £3.20 per session in cash.
The club will shortly be inviting registration of league teams for the winter 2021/2022 season.
For further information visit www.stamfordindoorbowls.co.uk