Wargrave Bowling Club

WARGRAVE Bowling Club welcomed members of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons of Berkshire who were representing the Mark Benevolent, to hand over their generous donation of £11,471 to fund a new lawn-mower for the club.

The new Dennis machine replaced a 30-year-old mower that was completely worn out.

Chez Annetts, a member of the club, said: “The machine we had was old and constantly requiring repair.

“Our green is maintained by our members, many of whom are in their later years. The old equipment did not allow us to keep the green to the high standard required for bowling, making the process so much harder.

“The new machine will help us reach the high quality expected of a bowling green assisting us to attract other clubs to play against, bringing in revenue and for our facilities to be open much longer for our members and anyone who would like to come and try the sport.”

Wargrave Bowling Club supports all ages and works hard to keep access to everyone who wants to play.

Ms Annetts said: “We have members who have various physical disabilities, some who have had strokes and a few with dementia. We aim to support these members, helping them play as long as they feel able to.

“The social side of our club also allows all members and their families to continue to see friends and be supported in any way needed. We are a close-knit group who look out for one another. It’s a wonderful environment to be part of with the added fun of a game of bowls as well.”

The Mark Benevolent Fund is the charity of the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Mason, the third largest branch of Freemasonry. The fund was established in 1868 with the sole objective of providing immediate financial aid to eligible members of their close family, who may be in distress.

In modern times this has been extended to helping those in need in communities across the provinces and districts across the globe.

James Payen, deputy provincial grand master, said: “The fund donates to many organisations large and small. We have in the past supplied ambulances to the St John Ambulance Service as well as supporting more local projects like wheelchair rugby.

“We believe the social element of Wargrave Bowling Club, as well as providing a sporting opportunity, is a highly prized part of the local community that brings together people of all ages and abilities and deserves our support.”

For provincial grand charity steward, Brian McCormack, the visit to the bowling club was emotional. His father Roy McCormack was heavily involved in the Northern Ireland Bowling Association and played for many years.

“It has been a real treat coming to Wargrave today,” he said. “I saw my father play bowls regularly over many years, so to visit a bowling club and see the green and the community spirit and team it takes to run a club such as this, I am pleased we have been able to assist in securing the future of the club into its centenary next year and beyond.”

President Marion Pope, chairman Roger Prew and head groundsman George Hedges received the cheque and unveiled the new machine.