MP PRESENTS CLUBMARK CERTIFICATE

The Club was awarded Clubmark status in September and on Friday evening President Jim Fitzgerald was delighted to be presented with its Certificate by the local MP North West Hampshire’s Kit Malthouse. Clubmark is the universally recognised club accreditation scheme which requires clubs to demonstrate high levels of welfare, equity, coaching and management within a community sports club. Some 50 people attended the Presentation where they were joined by distinguished guests including the Deputy Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, Paul Frankum, the Chair of the Parish Council Ros Blackman, representatives of Bowls Hampshire and Sir Michael Colman Bt.

Energise Me, who are the County Sports Partnership, worked with the club and particularly our Treasurer Peter Bown throughout the process and Clubmark lead, Harry Stow, said “Oakley Bowling Club were an absolute pleasure to work with and met many areas of the criteria to an exceptional level. They provide an extremely positive experience for all members and the committee have so much knowledge and expertise between them.”

Replying, Peter said “Clubmark is a rewarding activity to have completed and Energise Me were a great help during the process. Oakley are proud to be the first outdoor club in Hampshire to achieve this status. As a result of attaining Clubmark accreditation, Oakley Bowling Club can go forward with confidence that the Club is well run and a safe environment for its members and visitors.”.