The chairs will replace manual ones which often need additional support from other bowlers to transport them up and down the rinks.

Says Keith Rippin, chairman of directors and chief coach: “Powered wheelchairs will go a long way towards making life easier for some of our members with mobility difficulties including some suffering with the debilitating Parkinsons disease, who will then be able to more fully participate, including games against able-bodied bowlers.

The Sport England grant is conditional that half of the total cost must be raised through financial pledges of support through the Crowdfunder internet platform described as ‘a different way to raise money for good ideas.’ 

A spokesperson for the platform adds : “People are increasingly bypassing more traditional funding routes such as bank loans and grants; turning instead to the people around them in their community to support their venture. 

“It has been around for decades but the internet makes it possible to reach much bigger audiences.”

The club is therefore, looking to its members and the local community to raise at least £2,885, through donations via the Crowdfunder platform in order to be able to access the grant from Sport England.

Adds Rippin: “While we are grateful for all donations - large or small - many small donations from our members and beyond should get us to our target quickly.”

The project goes live on Friday, September 13 and donations can then be made via our Crowdfunder page at https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/new-electric-wheelchairs or direct to the club.

Please  watch our promotional video