A new era is on the horizon for Harworth and Bircotes Short Mat Bowling Club, thanks to a £1,700 grant from a group of Bassetlaw District Councillors that will support an exciting new development.
The club has announced plans to create an outdoor bowling green on the disused car park at the rear of Harworth and Bircotes Welfare Hall. The new facility will give members the chance to enjoy the sport in the open air, while also promoting social interaction and wellbeing.
The inspiration for the project came after a friendly away match against Retford. Following a positive consultation with members, the club decided to pursue the idea, with the full project expected to take around three years to complete.
Ann Wilson, Secretary of the Harworth and Bircotes Short Mat Bowling Club said: “We are absolutely thrilled and incredibly grateful to the Bassetlaw District Councillors for their generous support. This funding is a fantastic first step towards turning our dream of an outdoor bowling green into a reality.
“The new space will not only allow members to enjoy the sport outside but also create a warm and welcoming environment where friendships can flourish. It’s the beginning of an exciting new chapter for our club.”
Ward Members for Harworth and Bircotes Cllr Lynne Schuller, Cabinet Member for Housing and Estates and Cllr June Evans, Cabinet Member for Governance, speaking on behalf of the councillors who contributed, said: “As District Councillors for Harworth and Bircotes, we know how important community facilities and local clubs are to our residents. Being part of a community matters, and the Bowls Club offers friendship, social connection, and some gentle exercise, something we can all benefit from.
“We hope this donation helps the club grow and realise its goal of offering both indoor and outdoor bowling in the future.”
The Councillors who contributed to the project are: Cllr Lynne Schuller, Cllr June Evans, and Cllr Joe Horrocks, Ward Members for Harworth and Bircotes; Cllr David Challinor, Ward Member for East Retford North and Cllr Cliff Entwistle, Ward Member for Worksop East.
Founded in 2022 with just eight members, Harworth and Bircotes Short Mat Bowling Club has now grown to 34 members. The club meets every Tuesday and Friday from 10.00am to 12:30pm, with each session costing £3.
You can keep up with the club’s latest news and events on Facebook: Harworth and Bircotes Short Mat Bowling Club Facebook Group
Each Bassetlaw District Councillor receives a small discretionary budget to support community activities in their ward. Grants may be awarded to projects that focus on sport, culture and heritage, the environment, social welfare, and wider community benefit.
Pictured: Cllr Lynne Schuller, Ann Wilson, Cllr June Evans and the Harworth & Bircotes Short Mat Bowling Club
Last Updated on Monday, September 29, 2025