The 2024/2025 season has drawn to an end and what a year it has been. It has been so heart-warming to see the club thrive again and to welcome lots of new members. There is a real buzz in the club now and everyone is pulling together in the right direction.
Flora Williams has been organising fundraising and social events which have been very popular. She works tirelessly and with such good humour. “We are carrying on throughout the winter months with our new social evenings and hope to provide bingo nights, quiz and other events.”
Ian Scott, club secretary has been instrumental in negotiating with Rother District Council in securing a Tenancy at Will for the 2025 season and the club will now be able proceed with a long-term licence.
The captain, Roy, who stepped up to the rôle mid-season, worked hard and managed to lead the Rye Bowls Club players up to fourth place in the Mermaid League: well done, everyone.
Ray Palmer and his team of Merry Men (Michael, Andy, Roy, Bob, Luke and Paul to name a few) have taken on the task of not only maintaining the green but also the winterisation process to get it ready for the 2026 season (and that is no mean feat). Ray has taken the lead on the project and says that the team has gained a wealth of experience in this short time, and is still learning something new in maintaining a bowling green but is doing so as a team.
Ray commented: “We are all extremely pleased with the green’s development and many people have commented on its high standard, particularly the many visitors to the club who have come to play friendlies and league games and the many players who attended our annual tournament. Again, well done, everyone.”
Another group within the Rye Bowls Club is The Mantuary (a ‘sanctuary’ for ‘men’) set up by Ray Palmer, which is continuing at the clubhouse during the winter months, running every Tuesday morning from 10-12. There is generally a good attendance of eight to ten men every week who share tea, cake and good company. Many say it is a great way to prevent isolation and also proves beneficial in having others to chat to. They play cards, board games, sometimes bowl or just socialize.
The Rye Bowls Club committee and members would like to say thank everyone for all the support they have received from within the Rye community and especially the local businesses who have sponsored the club this season.
This is a great example of camaraderie and community support, definitely worth a visit: a warm welcome awaits you.
Image Credits: Kt bruce , Flora Williams .