Purley Bowls Club hosted a strong, experienced Surrey side for the celebration of 120 years of bowling at the club on Sunday 22nd June 2025.

The green at Purley looked a picture as the 24 a side teams started. Thankful for cooler conditions Purley started strongly in this “friendly” match. It didn’t take long before the competitiveness took over and Surrey threw everything at us. Soon it was a war and friendships put aside. We were playing for bragging rights and welcomed the half time drinks and bread pudding to reset.

Hopeful that the laxative surreptitiously popped into Surreys tea would take effect, the second half got under way. Sadly it was not to be, they piled on the pressure and we clung on to any scrap they threw us.

Surrey came out winners but Purley gave a spirited performance and took the competition into the bar. We won that contest comfortably!

The current Surrey Presidents were in attendance and were extremely complimentary about our club, green and catering. The buffet was excellent and I’m pleased to report Purley won that too. Overall 2-1 to us then.

A raffle and ‘spider’ competition raised funds for our Captains charity “Diamond Riding Centre for Disabled Riders“. It was a good day all around with the Purley Bowls Club members, facilities and renowned welcome shining through.

The committee and players at Purley Bowls club would like to thank all Surrey Officials, Surrey County Players and our own members that kindly gave up their time and travelled from all points across the county to help Purley BC celebrate this major milestone in the clubs history. Your support for our important day was outstanding. Thank you

Jane Harding
Hon. Club Secretary
Purley Bowls Club