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The EIBA is pleased to acknowledge the following Official Partners & Suppliers
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CLUB FOCUS: NORTHAMPTON & DISTRICT INDOOR BOWLS ASSOCIATION |
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The origins of Northampton IBC
can be traced back to 1981, when local bowls enthusiast Bert Bullard
wrote to the press highlighting the urgent need for an indoor
bowling facility in the town. His call to action was echoed by a
local journalist, whose articles helped generate growing public
support. This momentum led to a public meeting attended by more than 100 people, where a steering committee was formed. What followed was four and a half years of tireless fundraising and planning. By 1984, an impressive 576 paid-up members had already committed financially to support the build. When additional funds were required, members stepped forward once again, providing £50 non-interest loans to bridge the gap. The first sod was cut in June 1985, and by December the new club officially opened its doors with 800 playing members and 125 social members. Demand was such that membership quickly reached capacity, peaking at 1,200 bowling members and 300 social members. Growing with the times Over the years, the club has continued to evolve while maintaining a strong and stable membership base. Today, N&DIBA boasts around 720 bowling members and nearly 200 social members. Regular refurbishments have ensured the club remains a modern, welcoming space. Developments include improvements to the kitchen and restaurant, a locker extension, recent redecoration, and further enhancements planned for the near future.  A proud history Northampton IBC has long been a trusted venue for major events. Within just five years of opening, the club celebrated Valerie Wade's National Ladies Champion of Champions title, and went on to host the Ladies National Championships. Across its 40-year history, the club has hosted numerous EIBA National Final Stages, as well as U25 and Senior International Trials. Just last weekend (January 3), the club hosted the Commonwealth Games trials, a major milestone and a testament to its standing within the sport. Facilities for all The club offers a fully inclusive eight-rink indoor facility, with ample parking and excellent off-green amenities. Members and visitors can enjoy a fully licensed bar and restaurant, operated by franchises DG Taylors Ltd and Hearty Cuisine. Inclusivity is at the heart of the club's design and ethos. Facilities include: > Wheelchair-friendly access with handrails and ramps around the green > Two electric wheelchairs suitable for on-green use > One manual wheelchair > Three rollators and three bowling arms The club works closely with community groups, including the Pink Flamingos (supporting people with learning difficulties) and a Parkinson's support group, helping ensure bowls is accessible to all, regardless of age or ability. A truly inclusive membership N&DIBA currently has approximately 915 members, ranging in age from seven years old to a social member aged over 100 - a remarkable reflection of the club's broad appeal. More than 30 members are involved through the Pink Flamingos and Parkinson's groups, many of whom now play regularly in club leagues, underlining a commitment to genuine inclusion rather than token participation. A welcoming culture Ask members what makes Northampton special, and the answer is simple: people. The club prides itself on a warm, welcoming atmosphere, balancing competitive bowls with a strong social and community focus. Regular open days are followed by structured coaching, and wherever possible, new players are grouped into league teams together to help build friendships and confidence. Social events and themed fun nights - including skills nights, Halloween and Christmas competitions (with prizes for best dressed) - add to the club's vibrant calendar, while displays and photographs celebrate its rich history. Signature events and traditions Alongside annual fixtures such as Men vs Ladies and N&DIBA vs Park Leagues, the club is introducing a new Gala event, sponsored by new member Matthew Desmond. The hope is that this will become a flagship annual competition open to bowlers across the club and county. Success on the green Northampton members continue to make their mark at national and international level, including: International & national honours > Conor Bryan - Junior International (2023-25), British Isles U25 Winner (2024/25) > Billie Swift - Junior International (2023), former British Lion > Tom Wheeler - Junior International (2025/26), U25 Singles Semi-Finalist > Liberty Trophy Runners Up squad (2024/25) - eight club members > Denny Plate Runners Up (2023/24) Summer national achievements > James Robinson - Singles Semi-Finalist (2024) > Robinson, Care & Taylor - Finalists (2024) > Robinson & Lemon - Quarter-Finalists (2025) Developing players Beginners are actively encouraged, with the club running six-week coaching programmes for all new members. These groups are supported beyond coaching, with many entering leagues together the following season. Visitors and casual players are always welcome to come along and try the sport.  People who shape the clubThe club's strength lies in its members, including: > Richard Lemon (Chairman) and Chloe Weston (Treasurer) - both former junior members > Mick Tack, Fixture and Match Secretary since the club's formation and now a trustee > Dena and Gavin Taylor, running the DG Taylors bar franchise - with Gavin a nine-time Denny Cup winner and former U25 International > Rising stars such as Conor Bryan, Tom Wheeler and Billie Swift > Long-serving members and trustees including Stuart Letts > Historic achievers such as Valerie Wade, National Champion of Champions (1987/88), and former EWIBA President Shirley Digby Moments that matter One particularly heart-warming moment saw five junior members act as mascots during the Men's U25 British Isles Series, walking the teams onto the green. Spoilt with gifts - and inspired by seeing clubmate Conor Bryan in the winning side - mascot Emily still proudly wears her England shirt to junior sessions. Another special occasion was the opening of the John Gibson Suite, a newly renovated breakout space consisting of books, puzzles and a dart board with comfortable seating, dedicated to a former treasurer. With his family present for the ribbon-cutting, the moment sparked memories, pride, and even prompted John's son and grandson to rejoin the club as members. Looking ahead The club's ambitions remain strong. Plans are underway to install a new scoreboard system, supported by ongoing fundraising, and the club continues to invest in its social media presence, which has already driven increased engagement and membership. Hosting at the highest level Hosting EIBA events is a source of immense pride for Northampton IBC. Bringing the very best players - and the next generation of stars - onto their green is both an honour and a responsibility the club embraces wholeheartedly. Richard Lemon said: "It's not just about watching great bowls - it's about being part of something special." For more information, go to www.ndiba.co.uk Sian Honnor. We' d love to know what bowls means to you, get in touch at info@eiba.co.uk Previous Article - Interview with James Rippey |
January 2026
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