Oakley Bowling Club in Hampshire has demonstrated high levels of welfare, equality, coaching and management to secure re-accreditation of Clubmark.

Oakley Bowling Club were the first outdoor bowling club in the county to achieve Clubmark and have continued to meet and exceed the criteria set out by Sport England.

With a rich 41-year history, the Club which in 2013 won the prestigious Bowls England Club of the Year Award, has 120 playing and 30 social members. Members have won World, National and County titles but the club retains a strong grass roots and social basis, welcoming and catering for players of all ages and abilities.

Clubmark is the universally acknowledged cross sport accreditation scheme for community sports clubs. It exists to ensure clubs provide the right environment to encourage all its members to enjoy sport and stay involved throughout their lives.

Energise Me, who are the Active Partnership for Hampshire & Isle of Wight, worked with club secretary Spencer Kerley throughout the re-accreditation process and Clubmark lead, Harry Stow.

Harry said: “Oakley Bowling Club are a great example of a community club. It is more than just a sports club, it is a community with strong friendships, vital to the local area. The committee, all made up of volunteers, dedicate considerable amount of time to developing the club in line with member and community feedback.”

Spencer added: “Energise Me were a great help during the Clubmark process which has enabled us to approach the future with confidence that the club not only meets all legal and statutory processes but is well run and a safe environment for members and visitors”