2017 promises to be a busy time at the Memorial Park, the home of Pembroke Dock Bowling Club.

In addition to the regular league and friendly fixtures, the club will be hosting several additional matches as club stalwart Richard Hissey has the honour of being county president during the forthcoming season.

The season gets under way on Saturday, April 1, when the opening of the green and the customary rolling of the Silver Jack will be performed by Richard, undoubtedly observed by a large group of enthusiastic members.

During the summer, a number of friendly matches have been arranged against touring teams from far and wide, including Bristol, Buckingham, Kettering and Wellingborough. In May, a team representing West Midlands Police will be the visitors.

June sees the 72nd annual Open Week being held, with the tournament played on the verdant green surface. Thanks to the hard work of a band of willing volunteers, the green has gained a reputation for being one of the best playing surfaces in Pembrokeshire. During the week, male competitors will compete for the prestigious Sudbury Bowl, Alfred Phillips Bowl and the Texaco Shield, which is contested by bowlers eliminated from the earlier rounds of the main competitions.

So, have you ever thought about playing bowls? The club is always eager to recruit new members - why not come along to Pembroke Dock Bowling Club and give it a go. Despite an undeserved reputation as a pastime for pensioners, bowls is a sport that can be played by men and women of all ages.

Pembroke Dock Bowling Club is situated within the Memorial Park (off Bush Street) and in addition to a superb green, it has ample car parking and a comfortable, fully licensed lounge bar where you will receive a great welcome.

Qualified coaches are available to advise newcomers, as well as offering assistance to any bowler wishing to improve their game. The club has bowls and other equipment available, so you don’t have to worry about buying your own.

Bowling is a great way of meeting new friends - if you want to find out more, contact Mr. Allistair Benn (secretary) on (01646) 687268 or just call into the club.

H.C.