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ABOUT THE WEST SOMERSET BOWLS LEAGUE

Originally researched & written by League Sec Alan Wood Dec 2016

Updated following changes recorded at subsequent AGMs

Who We Are

The West Somerset Bowls League (WSBL) is a long‑established summer bowls competition bringing together clubs from across West Somerset, Sedgemoor and the surrounding region. With roots stretching back to the early 1980s — and possibly earlier — the league provides structured, competitive, friendly bowls throughout June and July.

Today the WSBL comprises 11 member clubs and 29 teams, organised into four divisions playing home and away. Our footprint extends from Ilminster in the southeast to Minehead in the East and Burnham‑on‑Sea in the north.

Our Purpose

The league exists to:

Promote competitive outdoor bowls in West Somerset

Provide a clear, fair, and enjoyable structure for clubs of all sizes

Encourage participation, sportsmanship, and club development

Maintain a welcoming environment for bowlers of all abilities

Since 2022, the WSBL has been fully Open, allowing men and ladies to compete equally across all divisions.

How the League Works

WSBL matches are played on Thursday evenings at 6.15pm throughout June and July. The current format is:
3 × 3 triples
Four divisions
Home and away fixtures
Promotion and relegation each season

This structure was introduced at the 2026 Special General Meeting, reflecting the league’s growth and the desire for balanced, competitive divisions.

Our History

Although the exact founding date is unknown, confirmed records show the league was active by 1983, when Wellington won the title. Key milestones include:

1995 – Major reorganisation under Tony Whitehead (Hinkley Point BC), introducing two divisions and fixed Thursday fixtures

2005 – Adoption of the 3 × 3 triples format

2021–2022 – Transition to an Open league

2026 – Expansion to four divisions of 6–8 teams

The league has benefited from the dedication of many volunteers, including long‑serving officers whose commitment ensured the WSBL’s stability and growth.

Member Clubs

The WSBL proudly includes clubs from across the region, including:

Bridgwater • Burnham-on-Sea • Eastover • Ilminster • Minehead • North Petherton • Taunton • Taunton Deane • Victoria • Wellington • Williton

Several former clubs also contributed significantly to the league’s heritage, including British Cellophane, Hinkley Point, Chard, Donyatt and Watchet.

League Governance

The WSBL is run by an elected Executive Committee, supported by club representatives and volunteers. Current officers (2026):

Chairman: Don Bridges

Vice-Chairman: John Swayne

Secretary: Jay Merrell

Treasurer: Mark Reeve

Honorary Vice-President  Alan Wood was appointed in 2018 in recognition of his exceptional service.

Membership & Fees

Annual membership is £30 per team, a rate unchanged for more than 15 years. The league has also benefited from generous sponsorship over time, including support from Whitehead Bowls (Bridgwater) and Brian Holmes (Williton BC / Stockleigh Farm Meeth).

Our Values

The West Somerset Bowls League is built on:

Fair play

Respect for all players and clubs

Community spirit

Enjoyment of the game

These values guide our decisions, our governance, and the way we play.

Looking Ahead

The WSBL continues to evolve, welcoming new teams, supporting club development, and ensuring bowls remains vibrant across West Somerset. With strong participation and committed volunteers, the league is well placed to thrive for many years to come.