November 26th, 2025

It is a general assumption that when the summer season is over and bowling ceases as an activity, that the club automatically shuts down.

Not so, as during the winter, there is still the green to be maintained and the club-house to be cleaned, but also social events continue to run keeping the unity of the club intact. This winter it has been necessary for several fund raising events to be held as the management committee have realised that nearly half of the annual subscriptions received is spent on electricity.

Recognising that this state of affairs cannot continue, it was decided that there is a need to future-proof the club by installing solar panels. Led by club chairman, Carl Gilleard, a programme of social events has been arranged, ranging from whist drives to murder mystery evenings together with regular club meals (foodie Fridays). Within a very short time at least a quarter of the total required to purchase the solar panels has been raised.

Ottery St Mary Bowling Club prides itself on being inclusive and actively supports Devon Disability Bowls with every opportunity for the disabled to enjoy playing this game.

Club member, Kevin Vernon, who was awarded his England shirt through this charity, wanted to play his part in fundraising, so he decided, that he would swim 10,000 metres (six and a quarter miles in proper money).

He duly accomplished this feat with the cooperation and assistance of the staff at Sidmouth Swimming Pool, raising nearly £400.00 through sponsorship.

The club is very grateful to Kevin for his contribution. He specifically asked that the management and staff (especially the lifeguards!) of Sidmouth Swimming Pool be thanked for enabling him to complete this challenge.