Eastbourne Open 2024 - Charity Game

Traditionally the curtain raiser to the’ Eastbourne Open Bowls Tournament’ is a charity game held in support of the ‘JPK Project,’ an Eastbourne charity, which aims to ensure that many more disadvantaged individuals can benefit from the support they need to explore their potential and contribute to the community in which they live, and to provide peace of mind for their families and parents who will no longer face the concern of caring at home long into their retirement. 2024 is a special year for the’ Eastbourne Open’ which was conceived in 1924 and the event was designed to celebrate its 100th birthday.

The event was blessed with a glorious afternoon and was held in the picturesque setting of Hampden Park, at the Bowls Club. The setting was made even more colourful by Daphne’s floral baskets and the appearance of a number of the contestants dressed ‘flamboyantly’ to reflect the almost tropical weather, these included a guest appearance by Mary Poppins, minus umbrella, whose attire sent many a pacemaker racing.

Fourteen teams, from all over East Sussex included players from Deanland, Polegrove, St. Johns, Eastbourne, Hailsham, Royal Sovereign, and Hampden Park who took part in a hard-fought contest, played boisterously in good spirits which belayed any preconceived notion that bowls is not fun.

The top three teams were only separated by one point. A team from different clubs combined to take top spot and included Craig Mallinson, Nigel Froud, Neil Richardson and fittingly Mike Taylor the ‘Opens’ organiser. Sue Sanders, the Hampden Park President presented a new trophy celebrating the charity and the oldest Eastbourne bowls trophy in existence, the 1918 Towner Rinks Trophy to the winners.

Louise and the girls of Hampden Park provided a ‘high tea’ enjoyed by all, and a steady flow of libations was dispensed by the glamours barmaid Jill. A vote of thanks was given to all who provided raffle prises and to a number of donations made to the charity, one of which came from the members of St Johns.

A tribute was paid to Mike Taylor, who has for many years been the organiser of the Eastbourne Open, and wished him every success for many years to come. A general vote of thanks was given to all who contributed to a really fun day which after costs had been deducted raised £425.00 for the charity. The day was a celebration of friends all combining to have fun playing a sport they all loved and was enjoyed by all.