Formby Bowling Club encourage 'Bowl for Health' scheme for over 55's to be more Socially

Crown Green Bowls in Landmark Scheme to encourage and support the over 55's to be More Socially and Physically Active

‘Bowl for Health’ is a ten week programme designed in collaboration with MSP (formerly Merseyside Sports Partnership) and Holy Trinity Bowling Club and is designed to encourage and support the over 55's to be more socially and physically active. It will be based at Holy Trinity Bowls Club, Formby, and led by their experienced British Crown Green Association’s qualified coach. The first cohort starts Thursday 20th July.

Participants in the scheme will be introduced to the basic techniques of bowling, rules of the game, etiquette and should be playing ‘friendly’ matches in groups of four within a matter of weeks. Bowling is one of the few sports that allow you to compete at any age with a low risk of injury and the game can accommodate those with a physical disability

Chairman of Holy Trinity Men’s Bowls, Eric Gowling said, ‘There is plenty of evidence that demonstrates the physical benefits of Crown Green Bowling but we also want to stress the social benefits too. We want to encourage people who are living alone or wondering what to do once they have retired to experience the benefits of the game. 25 members of Men’s Bowls are aged 80 and over – many of whom are playing two or three league matches each week plus regular internal competitions.’

The evidence demonstrates that regular bowling can greatly improve general body agility, movement and strength. It can help lower the risk of stroke, heart attacks, diabetes and increases bone density.

Bowl for Health is aimed at local people aged 55+ and aims to encourage people to socialise, reduce stress and depression and even inspire life-long friendships.

Gail, a new member of Holy Trinity Ladies Bowls, has found immediate physical benefits. Gail said: "I am happy to report that my knees are coping and I am finding that I feel stronger, more flexible and fitter since taking up the sport. The game itself is great fun and my fellow bowlers are very welcoming and friendly." Gail’s message to those considering Crown Green Bowling is: “Don’t waste any more time. There are health, wellbeing and social benefits to be had from the sport. I am so glad I decided to try bowling.”

Danny Woodworth (Physical Activity and Sport Officer for MSP), said: “We are delighted to be supporting Holy Trinity Bowls Club in developing and piloting the ‘Bowl for Health’ programme, which will enable many local residents to experience the physical and mental benefits of taking part in increased physical activity.”

Anybody over the age of 55 can join the ten week programme, and we feel that the course may have significant benefits for people who would benefit from taking part in more gentle physical activity, have health problems or a disability, are socially isolated or experience mild to moderate mental health problems (e.g. depression or anxiety).

Participants must be able to commit to attending all ten sessions and be able to get to the club (Rosemary Lane, Formby, Liverpool, L37 3HA). Participants will also be asked to complete a pre-course and post-course evaluation questionnaire to help ascertain the benefits that they have experienced as a result of taking part.

There will be two ten week Bowl for Health courses, starting on Thursday 20th July from 11am to 1pm and Sunday 23rd July from 5pm to 7pm.

People interested in joining Bowl for Health can by apply via www.holytrinitymensbowls.co.uk or www.holytrinityladiesbowls.co.uk Alternatively contact Eric Gowling (079490913020) or ericgowling@btinternet.com