CLANFIELD Bowls and Sports Club is to open next month – and more than 200 village residents have been invited to go along.
The first sessions on the state-of-the-art artificial bowling green ’carpet’ will be on Thursday, April 11, from 10am to midday, then again from 2pm to 4pm, with the official opening on Saturday, April 13.
Club chairman Michael Trippick said: "It has been a long time coming, so I am absolutely delighted to say the club is to go live next month."
It has taken more than two years for Michael, his team, and Clanfield Parish Council to arrive at this point.
As well as being a top end bowling facility, the members-only club on Columbine Way off Chalton Lane is also aimed at being a social hub and meeting place for village residents.
Michael said: "The intention is people can meet up, make new friends and pass their time in a pleasant casual environment.
"It has ample parking, a cafe, an evening bar, and an all-weather playing surface that can be used all year round.
"Experienced bowlers are encouraged to join, and help with coaching if they like, as most of the 200-plus people who have expressed an interest in joining haven’t played bowls before.
"There are already some coaches on board, and the club will provide all the necessary equipment to enable people to try the game.
"And if in time we have a sufficient number of keen players, the intention is to join the Portsmouth and District leagues.
"But for the moment it is likely members will simply enjoy some casual sport and company in comfortable surroundings.
"In addition to the bowls, there will be a full range of social events."
For details, visit the club’s website www.clanfieldbsc.com