Village bowlers scored a notable success after raising more than £1,800 for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH). In addition to collecting funds throughout the season, Bintree Bowls Club held a charity tournament on their green next to Bawdeswell Village Hall. They are one of ten teams in the Cawston Bowls League and, every year, clubs take it in turns to raise funds for a charity of their choice. This time it was the turn of Bintree and president Richard Johnson. Members chose to support EACH, which supports families and cares for children with life-threatening conditions across Norfolk and the rest of East Anglia. Treasurer Alistair Hunter said: “The season always finishes with our President’s Day and that’s when we held our fundraiser for EACH. “The afternoon started with a ‘spider’ competition and we had a round-robin tournament for 28 teams. Trophies were then presented to eventual winners North Walsham and runners-up Horsford. “We also presented cups to the Cawston League winners, Bawdeswell, and runners-up, Lakeside Pilgrims, in addition to handing out silverware to the Knockout Shield winners, North Walsham, and runners-up, Swanton Abbott. “In addition to the players, who all paid an entry fee, there were also lots of spectators and we had raffles, a tombola and food and drink sales to try and raise as much as possible. “Our thanks go to Arthur Mobbs, the Cawston League secretary, for organising the competition, his grandson, Matthew Neave, for sponsoring the league and presenting the trophies and to all members for their great efforts in supporting President’s Day and EACH. “We were thrilled to raise so much and my personal goal had been to raise £1,200. I was amazed and surprised and people were very generous. “The raffle alone raised £361 and the tombola a further £127. The Cawston Bowls League also made a wonderful donation of £250.” EACH was selected as Bintree’s chosen charity after a vote among the club’s 35 members. They were given a shortlist of three worthy causes. “Obviously I can’t speak for all members but, for me, the word ‘children’ really resonates and that’s why people voted for EACH. “It’s a lovely, local charity and it felt like a very worthy cause to support.” Bintree’s President’s Day took place on Saturday, 3rd September. The event raised £1,862 and president Richard Johnson (right) is pictured handing over the cheque to Nook Friends Group volunteer Roy Grage. EACH Community Fundraising Assistant Megan Kemp said: “We were truly bowled over to receive this wonderful and very generous donation. “It’s an incredible amount and our sincere thanks go to the members, players and spectators who helped make it such a special and memorable day.” Image credits EACH
