Built in 1914 and opened in 1915, the Belle Vue Bowling Club has been a staple in Penarth for many years but unfortunately, due to council changes they have lost their original Club House with its facilities and, most importantly, have lost all their funding. So we spoke to press officer Jacqui Kempa and treasurer Malcolm Thomas to tell us more about this iconic club and what the people in Penarth can do to help.

Jacqui said, “I am one of the newer members of the club and from the first time I went, I was hooked. The people there are just amazing, I’ve never had so much fun.” Since joining, Jacqui has worked to raise awareness of the club, calling for new members and for donations to help keep the club going.

The club is open to all ages and abilities, with currently around 30 full time members and qualified coaches. 

If you’re interested in joining or perhaps just want to have a look at the venue, the bowling club are hosting an open day on 6th April. “We encourage everyone to come along to our open day! You can come and have a try at the game, we’ll also have games for the kids, along with food and refreshments. It promises to be great fun and hopefully will help raise our numbers.”

Penarth Belle Vue Bowling Club is such a wonderful institution in this town and it would be a shame to see them go without the proper equipment and facilities. And with a rich history, it’s unsurprising the great effort that’s going in to keep it going.

In 1907 Penarth Council wanted a site for a bowling green.  They looked at other areas in Penarth but these were not suitable.  They looked at Alexandra Park but the topography made it unsuitable. They approached the Earl of Plymouth with a view to purchasing the current area.

The Council agreed the purchase in July 1911 for a bowling green and pavilion.  

The bowling green and pavilion were fundamental to the original existence of Belle Vue Gardens, later Belle Vue Park.

That is why they are working hard to raise money, including running fundraising events and are planning holding regular family days on a monthly basis to encourage all ages and abilities to enjoy a wonderful game.  Dates of these to follow.

The Club has in recent years, offered free coaching (fully qualified coaches) and introduction sessions to people who want to give the game a try.  The Bowling Club have supported Friends of Belle Vue with their ‘events’, including ‘Music in the Park’.  The benefits of playing bowls gives mental and physical stimulation, with outdoor exercise that is therapeutic without being too strenuous, performed in an environment where Welsh Bowling Association and local government rules/guidelines are adhered to 

There is also plans to offer local businesses to sponsor the club. With 3 proposals on offer of varying amounts, each can go towards supporting the club. “With a range of sponsorship offers available, it means that businesses of all kinds can get involved. The money can do towards sponsoring a match day, and depending on the package, a business could have a banner that will be on display at the grounds or their logo on the shirts.”

Any size donation is appreciated, as it will go towards keeping this club in full swing. 

With our support, this club will continue to thrive in Penarth and provide a space for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the sport and to meet some incredible people. If you’d like to know more about how you can help, you can email them at penarthbellevuebowls@gmail.com, or call treasurer Malcolm Thomas on 07580197333. And keep an eye out for their exciting new website, coming soon!