Club History
Billingshurst Bowling Club was established in 1932. The site was initially leased from Miss Puttock at a nominal rent of one shilling (5p) per annum. The Club was founded by a group primarily composed of local tradespeople and long-term residents, with Dr. Puttock serving as Chairman in the early years. At that time, the green featured only three rinks, and the grass was maintained using a hand mower. Securing the services of a groundskeeper was consistently challenging due to the low wage of sixpence per hour.
The original Pavilion was rudimentary, lacking sanitation, and constructed from wood and corrugated metal. Fencing was necessary to prevent Miss Puttock’s cattle from straying onto the green from the adjoining pastures—pastures that are now part of the Weald School playing fields and buildings. Matches were organized with three or four local clubs, with Graffham, Midhurst, and Handcross being some of our oldest rivals. During the Second World War, the club was largely inactive, with the site being utilized by the local A.T.C. and Red Cross for training purposes.
Since the 1950s, numerous advancements and enhancements have been made. The green was expanded to six rinks, and the arrival of mains water and electricity provided significant benefits. The original clubhouse was extended to include changing rooms, a kitchen, lounge area, and restrooms.
Improvements have continued to the present day, including the construction of a second pavilion to offer comfortable facilities for tea and supper refreshments after matches. This new building, named “The Stocker Pavilion” in honour of Jack Stocker, our skilled carpenter who led the project, stands as a testament to his craftsmanship.
Furthermore, an automated watering system has been installed, a considerable upgrade from the previous method of borrowing a standpipe and long hose from the cricket club.
Currently, the Club engages in friendly mixed matches against various clubs in West Sussex, with games scheduled on weekdays, weekends, afternoons, and evenings. Additionally, the Club hosts a comprehensive range of competitions and friendly sessions. Both ladies and gentlemen participate together, with all skill levels—from beginners to County standards—being accommodated.
New members are often surprised at how quickly they learn the game.
