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ILMINSTER INDOOR BOWLS CLUB - A STORY OF GROWTH, COMMUNITY AND INCLUSIVITY |
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Originally featuring a single
rink, which is now home to the club's function room, the club was
originally built to provide a year-round venue for bowlers. When the
room was required for a function, the carpet was rolled up and the
ditches covered over. The aim - to foster a welcoming environment for both social and competitive players - has been well and truly met all these year later and the club has undergone impressive development in both facilities and membership. In 1979 a two-rink indoor green was constructed followed by the addition of a purpose-built three-rink facility, steward accommodation, lounge, and bar in 2007. The work earnt members the Club Mirror Best Refurbishment Award. Further accolades followed in 2017 then Ilminster was named runner-up for Bowls England Club of the Year, with particular recognition for its strong junior development. The following year it won SASP Somerset Club of the Year and Bowls England Club of the Year, gaining recognition for placing high importance on accessibility, launching coaching programs for people with Parkinson's and stroke survivors and demonstrating a commitment to inclusion and community wellbeing. Historic milestones and unique events But it hasn't been all plain-sailing: in 2000 Ilminster faced closure due to financial challenges before two members stepped in to secure its future. In addition to the launch of a 10-year strategic plan, indoor membership rose from 220 in 2016 to nearly 340 this year and outdoor bowls membership grew from 102 (2021) to 165, making it the largest outdoor section in Somerset. Matt Hamilton believes the success is down to the club offering diverse facilities including indoor and outdoor bowls, tennis, pickleball, darts, skittles and community and games clubs. In 1957, Ilminster Tennis Club joined forces with the original outdoor club, established in 1929. The bowls Club President at that the time was the late Hector Hutchings, who remained in the role for 52 years. Trophies and Cups named in his honour are still played for today. Bowls and tennis run together in harmony and players celebrate each others' successes. "We have a fully catered clubhouse with daily food and drink service and future additions include short mat bowls and possibly badminton," Matt added. "With around 900 total members, including over 320 indoor bowlers, the club serves all age groups and abilities. Initiatives like Wellbeing Bowls support those with physical and mental health challenges, reinforcing the club's inclusive mission. "Guided by the principle: 'If we stand still, we go backwards,' Ilminster prides itself on being progressive, friendly, and inclusive, ensuring every member - new or long-standing - feels valued." It's clear to see that community is at the heart of Ilminster's vision. It hosts regular open days for schools and youth groups and collaborates with local organisations, including the Royal British Legion, Ilminster Cricket Club and Ilminster Town Council. The club also hosts a monthly charity quiz night, which has raised more than £15,000 for local causes.  Player successes Ilminster has nurtured national and international talent in recent years: Kirsty Hembrow - National and British Isles Women's Singles Champion Kirsty and Levi Hembrow - National Mixed Pairs Champions Louis Ridout, Perry Martin and Jamie Chestney - National Triples Champions Oli Collins - Represented England U25s In terms of opportunities for beginners, the club offers free coaching for all new players, beginner roll-ups and social bowls sessions and a novice league for players with under two years' experience. Matt said: "These initiatives are really important to us as they help new bowlers build confidence and feel part of the community." Standout stories Louis Ridout, a Commonwealth Gold Medallist, began his journey at Ilminster and returned to his roots a few years ago. Chairman Kevin Hamilton has served for over 25 years, playing a crucial role in the club's transformation. In 2024, after a member's home was flooded, club members rallied with support and fundraising, demonstrating Ilminster's powerful community spirit. Looking to the future There are always plenty of plans to make Ilminster better. The club's goals include a new outdoor seating area, extended rink hours and more indoor sessions, the development of a new or improved pavilion and ongoing expansion of activities for long-term sustainability. Matt said: "Ilminster Indoor Bowls Club remains a cornerstone of the town's social and sporting life, committed to inclusivity, excellence, and continuous improvement." Sian Honnor. We' d love to know what bowls means to you, get in touch at info@eiba.co.uk Previous Article - Spotlight on Torquay United |
August 2025
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