Here we are in December after a very strange year. The limited bowing regime has continued and, thanks to Match Secretary Trevor Lewis’s efforts, there have been seven knockout competitions which culminated in finals on 11th and 12th October. This marked the end of the season, such as it was. On Tuesday 14th October a good band of volunteers turned out to lift, clean and store the ditch mats and generally tidy up for the winter.
Unfortunately, due to the latest COVID-19 restrictions, any form of winter programme is now impossible. The committee will review the situation and, as and when restrictions change, assess what is possible. The club had prepared for its AGMs in March, which had to be cancelled due to the lockdown. So the committee, directors, captains and president have continued, extending their term of office by a year. It is hoped that the club can hold AGMs in March 2021. It is also hoped that bowling can resume next April, subject to the prevailing rules. The usual publicity campaign and coaching sessions will go ahead if at all possible. Look out for announcements in Retford Life magazine and around the town.
For the last five years the club has held taken part in ‘The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning’ for Macmillan Cancer Support. This has always raised a considerable sum, and it was decided that the club should continue to help the charity despite the restrictions. Shirley Pickersgill made face masks and sold them to club members, family and friends and also through Boon’s Hairdressers as Mike and Sylvia Boon are club members.
The funds collected were as follows:
- Selling masks from home: £249
- Donations: £380
- Boons contribution: £371
- Total raised: £1,000
Shirley is continuing to make and sell masks (£2.50 each) to raise funds for the Retford Lions. To buy them contact Shirley on 01777 703032.
Finally, thanks must go to all of those who renewed your membership this year knowing that the club could not operate properly. Their loyalty is very much appreciated. For more information you can visit www.retfordbowlinggreen.co.uk, email publicity@retfordbowlinggreen.co.uk or call Geoff Evans on 01777 948194.