Gourock Bowling Club Opens For 2023 Season In Style

Gourock Bowling Club welcomed its members back onto the green for another season as it held a successful opening day.

Invited guests and club officials were piped onto the greens by two of President David Stevenson’s grandsons, Olly and Tom Stevenson.

The club then took a moment to pay a touching tribute to former member John MacVicar, by unveiling a commemorative bench given to the club by his widow Sandra.

Rev Teri Peterson, minister at neighbouring St John's Church, also paid tribute to John as part of proceedings. 

The first bowl and jack of the season were then delivered by President David’s wife Una, who was presented with a bouquet by her granddaughter Lucy.

Sandra was also given flowers by David and Una’s grandson Tom, while Olly presented an arrangement to the club’s lady president Evelyn Cochrane.

Another bouquet was given to Jean Freeburn, who was celebrating her 50th wedding anniversary with her husband, Renfrewshire bowling association president John Freeburn, on opening day.

David said that the club was delighted to be back for another season.

He said: “It was good to welcome everyone along for the opening day.

“It was the first time in the club’s history that we had pipers playing for us and they just happened to be two of my grandsons, who did very well.

“We were absolutely delighted to be joined by Provost Drew McKenzie, local councillor Lynne Quinn and around 80 members, guests, and representatives of kindred clubs.

“We were very happy to unveil a commemorative bench that was given to the club by Sandra MacVicar, the widow of former member John MacVicar, who was club president in 2002.

“We were delighted that Sandra was able to join us on opening day.

“I’m very grateful to all the members who have volunteered to come onto the committee this year and we’re looking forward to an excellent season.

"We're an inclusive community-based club and everyone is welcome to come along and join us this season."

Bowman Rebecchi is a proud sponsor of Gourock Bowling Club, with all of the team wishing the Club a successful season.

This article and image appeared in the Greenock Telegraph.