Women’s Sport Campaign Spotlights Hailsham Bowling Club’s Thriving Ladies Section

Hailsham Town Council is continuing its campaign celebrating women’s and girls’ sport by shining a spotlight on Hailsham Bowling Club, whose flourishing ladies’ section has played an important role in promoting participation, friendship and competitive sport for women in the town.

Founded in the early 1900s, Hailsham Bowling Club has been at the heart of the local community for more than a century. Situated in Vicarage Lane, behind the leisure centre, the club boasts a six-rink green and offers a warm and welcoming environment for both experienced bowlers and those looking to try the sport for the first time.

Affiliated to Bowls England and Sussex County Bowls, the club fields men’s, ladies’ and mixed teams throughout the season, with members enjoying a busy programme of league fixtures, friendly matches, social roll-ups and internal competitions.

The ladies’ section is particularly active, competing in the Eastbourne Ladies League, where regular Wednesday morning fixtures see Hailsham take on clubs from across East Sussex, including Hellingly, Seaford, Royal Sovereign, Parade, Gildredge Park and Hampden Park.

Alongside league competition, female members also participate in a range of internal competitions, including the Ladies Singles, Ladies Pairs and Ladies 100 Up, giving bowlers of all abilities opportunities to develop their skills while enjoying the social side of the sport.

The club’s welcoming atmosphere and emphasis on participation make it an ideal place for women of all ages to become involved in bowls, whether they are experienced players returning to the sport or complete beginners looking for a new hobby.

The feature forms part of Hailsham Town Council’s wider campaign to celebrate the growing success of women’s and girls’ sport across the town, recognising the contribution made by local clubs, volunteers and coaches in creating opportunities for women and girls to lead active, healthy lifestyles.

Councillor Dave Chapman, Chair of the Town Council’s Assets Management Committee, said: “Hailsham Bowling Club demonstrates that sport is about much more than competition. Its ladies’ section provides a welcoming environment where women can stay active, develop new skills, build confidence and enjoy the companionship that comes from being part of a club. It’s another excellent example of the diverse sporting opportunities available in Hailsham and the important role local clubs play in strengthening our community.”

“As a Town Council, we’re proud to support initiatives that encourage participation in sport at every level. By highlighting clubs like Hailsham Bowling Club through our women’s and girls’ sport campaign, we hope to inspire more people to discover activities that improve both physical and mental wellbeing while bringing communities together.”

Town Mayor Councillor Chris Bryant added: “Hailsham Bowling Club has been part of our town’s sporting landscape for over 100 years, and its thriving ladies’ section reflects the continued growth of women’s sport in our community. The club offers a fantastic combination of friendly competition, social interaction and healthy outdoor activity, making it an excellent choice for women of all ages.”

“Across Hailsham we’re fortunate to have so many clubs that rely on dedicated volunteers to provide opportunities for women and girls to take part in sport.”

Hailsham Town Council’s women’s and girls’ sport campaign will continue over the coming months with a series of features highlighting local clubs and teams, celebrating their achievements while promoting the wide range of sporting opportunities available throughout the town.

Anyone interested in finding out more about Hailsham Bowling Club, including membership and opportunities to try bowls, is encouraged to contact the club by calling 07410 976311 or sending an email to secretary.hailshambc@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can visit one of the club’s regular club sessions during the season.