Founded in 1923, the club is only six years from its centenary, but is appealing for new members to come and join the friendly group of bowlers. Inside the homely clubhouse photographs from over the decades adorn the walls. Black and white pictures dating back to the thirties stand proud along with modern colour photos of winning teams proudly displaying trophies and shields. There is also a set of pictures depicting the devastating fire that ripped through the club-house on the 23rd January 1987. But showing the resilience and determination of the club members the club-house was rebuilt and ready for the opening day of the bowls season within four months.
Press Officer Sue O’Neill said “ We are always on the look-out for new members. Currently the club has 9 teams in the league structure within the Scarborough and District Bowls Association and competitions are played regularly.” Prospective members need to be over 18 and coaching and instruction will be given to newcomers to the sport. The club also runs coaching programme with the Bridlington based U3A group every Thursday. Added Sue: “We have two greens so there is always one available for practice. It is a sport that you can pick up straight away and the more you play the better you get.
The sport keeps you moving and is a sociable pastime.” Alan Bambrook, the Club President, is one of the lynchpins behind the Dukes Park organisation. He has been at the club for 10 years and is a British Crown Green Coaching Scheme Instructor. Judging by his enthusiasm he loves every minute of his time down at the bowling green. “I came down as a novice to play after easing back from the golf. It is an easy game to learn and play, but like every sport practice is king.”
Another club stalwart is effervescent Barbara Bulmer who has been a member for 31 years. “I love meeting people and visiting other clubs in the area. Dukes Park has a nice atmosphere and we all muck in together.” Walking around the club during an Over 60s competition it is easy to see why this is Bridlington’s little piece of tranquility
