Beginners are made most welcome at Branksome Park Bowling Club. To ensure that you receive the full warmth of this welcome all you need to do is contact our secretary Roger Button on 01202 768208 (if Roger is not available please contact any of the names on the Contact Page).

Here are some of the questions asked by those thinking of taking up bowls and joining our club.

It looks so simple, just sending a bowl to a jack. Is there enough in it for me?
Although its easy to pick up the basic rules of bowls it is in fact a game of infinite variety. If you have learnt to cope with different weather and green conditions and how to get round all the bowls already at the head or whether to bowl gently to the jack or bowl heavily to get rid of opponents bowls you have only discovered some of the intricacies of this fascinating game.

Roughly how much will it cost?
Bowls is not an expensive sport. It will cost nothing to test the water. You can come along for some trial games without charge. Just wear flat soled shoes and comfortable clothes and we will lend you the rest.

Once you join you will need to pay the annual subscriptions shown in the membership section and small additional charges for participating in some events such as £1.50 for any club competition. You pay nothing for any roll-up session.

You will need a certain amount of equipment and clothing. A set of bowls costs about £150 or much less if you decide to buy or even borrow a second hand set (a wise choice for a beginner to give yourself time to find the type of bowls that suit you). Dress code requires grey trousers/skirt and a white shirt/blouse and sweater and flat bowling shoes. When you participate in Club matches you will need white trousers/skirt, a Club Tie/Cravat and possibly wet weather gear.

Can I have a go before I join?
Most certainly. One of our experienced members will be pleased to show you the ropes and let you have a go, without any obligation. Just contact the secretary Roger Button on 01202 768208.

Will I be expected to take part in Matches and Competitions?
The only thing you will be expected to do is enjoy yourself. You can put your name down for matches when you feel ready but there will be no pressure to do so. Most beginners like to start with the informal roll-up sessions and progress from there.

Can I play with my partner?
There are plenty of opportunities for husbands and wives or other partners to play bowls together or to enjoy the separate men's or ladies' games.

You have sparked my interest - what do I do now?
Contact Roger Button on 01202 768208 (if Roger is not available please contact any of the names on the Contact Page).