Littlehampton Gazette Bowls League
The Littlehampton Gazette Bowls League was formed back in the winter of 1984/85 by the current League Chairman, Chris Rolph from Tarring Priory BC. Chris acted as Hon. Secretary until the early 1990’s when he passed the reigns on to his friend Brian Wellsted who worked tirelessly for the league until he passed away in 2007.
Brian was responsible for the fantastic growth the league has seen by attracting new teams, creating new divisions and starting the league knockout cup. Chris stayed involved ‘behind the scenes’ assisting Brian until being asked to return officially as Chairman some six or seven years ago.
In the first season (1985) the league consisted of just one division and only six clubs (Norfolk, Maltravers, Arundel, East Preston, Middleton and Bognor). How times have changed! In 2010 the league boasts three divisions, twenty clubs and twenty five teams. The league has developed so impressively over the years it is now widely regarded as the most successful and competitive league in the whole of Sussex County.
After we lost Brian there was a brief period when as Chairman Chris was a little worried as to who may come forward and continue the fine work Brian had done. Thankfully Rod Jamieson of Worthing Pavilion BC offered his help and has looked after things admirably for the past two seasons.
Rod has also been largely responsible (with help from David Jackson of Bognor Regis BC) for the setting up of this website allowing access to all the results, league tables etc.
Finances of the league have been under the control of Bognor Regis BC member David Parker for about 6 years. He ensures we are kept in a healthy position so much so that we have been able to create this website without any increase in fees.
The leagues Annual Delegates Meeting is held each October at the RAFA club in Bognor Regis and its Presentation Day and Cup Final at Worthing Pavilion BC. We are very lucky that both clubs have supported us for many years at no cost.
We have been supported financially from formation back in 1985 by The Littlehampton Gazette and have enjoyed a wonderful relationship with the various Sports Reporters and Editors. Tony Mustard, Peter Butcher, Richard Amey and now Steve Bailey have all had an interest in the league and we thank them and their employers for the financial assistance and coverage they give us in the newspaper each week. Current Sports Editor Steve Bailey holds the honorary position of League President.
The Littlehampton Gazette is proud to sponsor the league and we look forward to doing so for many more years to come.
Year on year, it provides excellent entertainment for so many people and it really is one of the top local bowls leagues.
We look forward to reporting on you all again this year.
Any other bowls stories or news you have, let us know on 01903 282399 or sport@worthingherald.co.uk
