PICS: Andover Bowling Club raise £3.2k for charity

The round-the-clock event, held on May 23 and 24 at Andover Bowling Club, was organised to support the club's fundraising needs and the Countess of Brecknock Hospice.

The total will be shared equally between the two causes.

Steve Baker, president of Andover Bowling Club, said: "I’m bowled over by people’s generosity.

Bowlathon at Andover Bowling Club, Recreation Road. Bradley Godden (25) from Bulford, near Tidworth who is bowling the full 24 hours. Members of the Club bowl on the green for 24 hours non-stop in support of Club funds for the new Clubhouse and the Countess of Brecknock Hospice. (Image: Sean Dillow)

"There is a wonderful community at the heart of this club, and it shows what we can do when we all come together."

The event saw club member Bradley Godden bowl continuously for the full 24 hours, supported by 36 other bowlers who joined in for shifts of two, four, or six hours in a continuous triples match.

The match, dubbed Owls versus Larks, lasted for 198 ends and finished with a score of 179–136 in favour of the Owls.

Mr Godden delivered the final bowl—his 594th—after which he was presented with a commemorative club shirt and cap in recognition of his efforts in extremely hot weather.

Mr Godden said: "I’m completely shattered but so proud to have been involved and so grateful for the support of everyone who turned out to bowl or cheer us on.

"This club has been a second home for me and everyone has welcomed me with open arms.

"The people are unbelievable – thank you."

Cash donations were collected from individuals and businesses in Andover and beyond.

Additional funds were raised through summer fete-style activities held on and around the bowling green.

Bowlathon at Andover Bowling Club, Recreation Road. Bradley Godden (25) from Bulford, near Tidworth who is bowling the full 24 hours meets Test Valley Mayor Cllr Linda Lashbrook. Members of the Club bowl on the green for 24 hours non-stop in support of (Image: Sean Dillow)

The mayor of Test Valley, Councillor Linda Lashbrook, formally opened the bowlathon by delivering the first bowl of the event.

Club president Steve Baker, who attended the event alongside Meg Baker and Val Carnegie, thanked everyone who contributed, organised, and participated.

He also reminded the public of the club’s upcoming open day on Saturday, May 30, from 10am to 1pm.

Mr Baker said: "If you fancy having a go at bowling, slip on some flat shoes and come down to our corner of Vigo Park – not only will you be warmly welcomed, you’ll also have a great time."

Vice-president Tony Guy, who bowled during the 10pm to 4am slot, led a team to Thatcham the next day for a friendly match, which Andover won 107–67.

Mr Baker said: "There is a wonderful community at the heart of this club."

Click the top photo to view all the festivities caught on the day.