With a rich history dating back to 1892, Wellesley BC in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, has long been a pillar of its local community. Originally based on the Wellesley recreation ground, the club now enjoys a scenic home on the town’s seafront, competing in two local leagues and welcoming around 50 to 60 members.
But like many clubs, Wellesley BC has faced its share of challenges in recent years. Declining membership and difficulties fielding teams were taking their toll, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“As with most clubs, falling membership, lack of recruitment and struggling to get teams together to play in a league had left the club stagnant,” said club member, Carol McDermott. “After COVID, not all members came back but those who did brought others and with their enthusiasm this has brought new life back into our club.”
With renewed energy, the club began to thrive once again – joining two local leagues, competing regularly, and creating a positive, supportive atmosphere. Yet one barrier remained: without being affiliated to Bowls England, Wellesley BC couldn’t access formal coaching support or allow members to enter certain competitions.
The breakthrough moment came when Carol had joined a local indoor bowls club and noticed a contrast in the way the two clubs were run. It prompted a search for guidance and that led her to attend a Bowls England and Bowls Development Alliance Roadshow.
“I saw the Roadshow advertised on social media and believed it would be beneficial to our club to attend,” she said. “After attending, I realised we would get everything we needed from being affiliated.”
The roadshow proved to be a revelation. Wellesley BC discovered the wide range of support available through Bowls England affiliation – from club health checks, coaching and umpiring courses, to governance guidance, webinars, and insurance support.
“The amount of professional guidance and advice available on all aspects of running a bowls club once affiliated was really impressive,” Carol added. “Networking on the day was amazing too. I came away with so many contact details for advice if needed.”
Encouraged by the information and opportunities available, the club made the decision to affiliate and the membership was fully behind it.
“On a positive note, the membership, once consulted, were all in favour of affiliation.”
For Wellesley BC, Carol believes the move will have long-term benefits for both the club’s sustainability and its ambitions to grow and improve.
“We’re sure affiliation will help our club grow, become more efficient and give us guidance with things like grant applications. It gives us somewhere to go for practical help and ensures we’re fit for purpose.”
For clubs still unsure about whether to affiliate, Carol has a clear message:
“Attend a roadshow. You’ll see first-hand the benefits of affiliation. And check out the Bowls England website. There’s so much available to help your club.”
For more information, please contact our Clubs and Participation Officer Jas Batt here.