Abergavenny’s Bowls Club were bowled over by a recent Community Chest grant which might just have saved the historic Avenue Road outfit from extinction.

Like many grassroots clubs in Britain, Abergavenny’s bowling fraternity have been been hit hard by a lack of interest in the sport. Player numbers dwindled to the point where they could no longer play a team in the Gwent Bowls League. Such a state of affairs could have spelt closure for the historic club which was founded in 1860, and whose first President was the Chronicle’s founder Edwin Morgan.

But the men and ladies in white were not going to give in without a fight. For some time the Avenue Road faithful had thought a ‘mixed team’ of gentleman and ladies might just be the answer to their current woes. And hey presto, wouldn’t you know, the powers that be agreed. Henceforth Aber will field a gender neutral team for the 2018 season.

A club spokesperson enthused, “Club members had agreed for some time that creating a situation where men and women could play together might just be the answer. Previously men and women played separate matches and whilst their commitment to their respective league fixture will continue, the additional mixed fixtures will give many players at the club a number of extra competitive games but with a strong social influence.”

In 2017 the club played three mixed matches against teams from Hereford, Talgarth and Brecon. These matches provided the opportunity for 24 players to enjoy a friendly but competitive game but more importantly couples who joined the club had the chance to play together, a situation that was not available to them previously.

The Community Chest grant will provide funding for six newly qualified coaches and six qualified first aiders. The club already has three safeguarding officers, ensuring that any young person joining the club will not only be able to join without paying a fee and receive quality coaching but can rest assured their welfare is paramount

The Chair of Monmouthshire Community Chest Panel, David Blair, added, “We have supported numerous diverse activities over the years, seeking to make people in the local area more active more of the time. Grants have funded the costs associated with coaching and the purchase of a huge range of equipment. The programme ultimately supports the vision and dedication of local groups and individuals.”

In 2016 two of the Abergavenny club embers represented Wales at an international competition in Belfast. It is hoped that this new initiative will contribute to other club members going on to achieve international honours.

Club Chairman John Whomersley said, “My wife and I are both members and the chance to play together is something we look forward to. Abergavenny Bowls Club is the oldest bowls club in Wales and it is our intention to be around for many years to come. If anyone reading this is interested in joining us at this exciting time then I urge them to get in touch with us.”

Anyone interested should contact the club Secretary Jackie Evans on 01873 853301or Maurice Padfield on 01873 852227 or 07968867749 for more details.