Oakley Bowling Club was filled with celebration and camaraderie as it played host to players from across the district last Sunday, August 20.

The occasion marked the culmination of Basingstoke and district president Bob Goodyear's year of office, drawing players together from far and wide at the club's Malshanger greens.

Prior to the spirited match, club president Martin Smith extended a warm welcome to county councillor Juliet Henderson and borough councillor Diane Taylor.

Their instrumental support in securing grants for the club was acknowledged with gratitude by Martin, who highlighted how these funds had facilitated the acquisition of crucial equipment.

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The club's amenities were boosted with a replacement defibrillator in 2022, and this year, new hand dryers were installed.

Furthermore, the club's vision to encourage young enthusiasts was realised through the acquisition of three sets of smaller bowls for coaching purposes.

Councillors Henderson and Taylor were then invited to inaugurate the match by delivering the first bowls of the afternoon.

The symbolic gesture set the stage for president Bob to step onto the green, where his illustrious history in bowling spans over six decades.

Bob's journey through the sport began more than 60 years ago at Thornycroft Club, a path that led him to Basingstoke Town and the now-defunct Portals Club before becoming an integral part of Oakley in 1987.

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For this significant match, Bob curated two teams comprising a total of 48 players who have greatly contributed to the association and local clubs.

The match was a display of both sportsmanship and spirited competition, with vice president David Elliott's team emerging victorious.

Notably, Bob's team featured a remarkable combination of seasoned players, including Keith McEwan (Basingstoke Town), Ian Haywood (Whitchurch), and Spencer Kerley (Oakley).

These four individuals collectively boast an astonishing 230 years of combined bowling experience.

Following the competitive showdown, a harmonious atmosphere prevailed as 64 participants gathered for a sumptuous three-course meal.

Amid the camaraderie, Bob shared that the afternoon's festivities had generated approximately £300 in support of his chosen charity, SANDS.

The charity stands as a beacon of support for those affected by the loss of a baby, offering solace and resources through their website sands.org.uk.

In a poignant moment, Coral Wearn was bestowed with her life vice president's badge. Bob highlighted the immense contributions Coral had made, particularly as the competition secretary, a role she took on tirelessly for many years.

Coral's dedication and behind-the-scenes efforts were recognised as integral to the association, even as it transitioned from an exclusively male domain.