About Us

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There are two bodies covering bowls played in England today, each with their own rules, known as Bowls England and the English Bowing Federation. The latter was formed due to the fact that in several rural counties the game, as in the case of Thorndon, was played on smaller greens behind pubs and could not meet the criteria of the governing body. Locally there are still three such clubs playing on a pub green, namely Kenning Red Lion, Stradbroke White Hart and Coney Western Swan.

In the early 30's Thorndon joined the local league and continued to play throughout the summertime until 1939 when war broke out. After the war the club was reformed, but was no longer able to play at The Black Horse and the green was moved to a lawn attached to Stanwell Lodge.

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In 1952, to celebrate the forthcoming Coronation, Jack Coy of Poplar Farm decided to convert his tennis court to a bowls green. That year a 4 rink green was opened by the Club President, Mr W M Balch. To commemorate the occasion, he presented the club with a trophy, known as the Rosebowl, which is still played for today and each year is presented to the winner of the first game of the season.

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The club continued to grow in numbers and in 1969 it was decided that a larger green was needed. To this end, the then Captain, Peter Wright and secretary June Wright, together with the other members, filled in the adjacent pond to make 6 rinks. The green was then and still is, one of the best playing greens in the County.

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Jack Coy's son, John is the current Club President, taking a great interest in the club and has presented a trophy which is played for annually on the last day of the season.

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Thorndon Bowls Club is a member of the English Bowling Federation, the rules of which cover games played in 13 counties on the eastern side of the country from Essex to Northumberland. In addition to club team games, members can compete in individual competitions within the club and leagues and also County Competitions, whereby winners compete in the National Finals. Over the years, many members from Thorndon Bowls Club have won through to the National Finals and been selected to represent Suffolk's County Teams. The Club is also proud to provided three County Presidents and one National President.

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The Club has some 30 playing members. It is a game for all ages and should you wish to know more, please contact our secretary who would be pleased to hear from you, or just call in. Games are played on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings with the club social evening being on a Wednesday.

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New members are always welcome and even if you've not played the game before, there is always someone on hand to show you the ropes. You'll find it a most enjoyable pastime.