Green for go at proud Leyland club where the future of bowling is secured

South Ribble Council stepped in to save the long-established Eagle and Child green when members approached the authority for help after learning their home on Church Road could be sold by landowner Marstons Brewery.

With the club unable to afford to buy the facility themselves, more than 125 years of crown green bowling history on the site was in doubt.

However, that proud link has now been preserved - with the council completing the purchase of the green and offering the club a 30-year lease.

The long-term partnership also makes the club eligible to apply for grants from Sport England.

Coun Matthew Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Assets at South Ribble Council, said: “I’m absolutely delighted we’ve been able to save this wonderful facility for local residents. The Eagle & Child Bowling Club has been part of our community for well over a century and this bowling green is one of Leyland’s best kept secrets.

“Once restrictions allow, I can think of few better ways to spend a sunny afternoon t!

“Crown green bowling often gets unfairly painted as an older person’s pursuit but in fact it’s great fun for people of all ages.”

Harry Glynn, club chairman, said: “On behalf of the club I would like to thank everybody at the council who has worked so hard to secure the purchase of the bowling green in order to lease it back to us.

“This is a facility for the whole of the community. We are always looking for new members and would invite young people come and join us.”

The council and the club will now work together on improvements to the facility, including new toilets and an accessible entrance for wheelchair users and visitors with restricted mobility.

Crown green bowling is currently suspended under national COVID-19 guidelines but groups of up to six people are expected to be permitted to play together from March 29.

Residents interested in joining the club can contact club secretary Michelle Anderton on 01772 432989 or vice chair Linda Wright on 01772 422347.