A SHORT HISTORY OF ERDINGTON COURT BOWLS CLUB....
The origin of the Club dates from early years of the last century when several members of the Wesleyan Methodist Church in Erdington bought a large plot of land in Goosemoor Lane in order to provide sports facilities for Church members.
In 2025, the Club celebrates its centenary and a progressive programme of improvements to decor is being carried out. A recent addition has included a centenary bog garden on the outside of the Club, together with a small garden of thanks and remembrance to the Robinson family who served the Club for over 120 years.
The aims and objectives of the Erdington Recreational Trust that now runs the Club are:
TO PROVIDE OR ASSIST IN THE PROVISION OF FACILITIES FOR RECREATION AND OTHER LEISURE-TIME OCCUPATION FOR THE INHABITANTS OF ERDINGTON AND ITS NEIGHBOURHOOD, WITH THE OBJECT OF IMPROVING THE CONDITIONS OF LIFE FOR THE SAID INHABITANTS.
Initially Cricket and Tennis were played, with the Bowls section being formed in 1925. In 1976 the club was re-formed by the Trustees as the Erdington Recreational Trust when part of the land was sold for housing - which enabled the present Indoor and Outdoor Artificial Greens to be built. The outdoor green was completely refurbished in 2014 at a cost of over £80,000. The indoor green was renewed in June 2020.
Adjoining land is utilised by a local cricket Club for their junior players.
In 2021, a new automated fresh air ventilation system was added to the indoor arena, linked to the heating controls - to provide a safe and more comfortable environment.
Other improvements included the introduction of online booking, a move to card only payments for the members' bar, free Wi-Fi and the installation of card operated vending machines.
Monthly payments of membership subscriptions became an additional option.
In 2022, the Club increased its support to the local community by introducing a food bank collection for the first time and by supporting two local charities - the Cancer Support Centre in Sutton Coldfield and the North Birmingham and Sutton Coldfield Branch of Parkinson's UK. In December, the Club became part of the Birmingham Warm Welcome Space initiative - opening up the lounge 3 times a week to those having difficulty with energy bills and or suffering from isolation and depression.
The Club also became a Midlands area HUB CLUB for the Bowls Development Alliance (BDA), hosting coaching sessions and meetings. It also introduced a free 'Bowl For Health' programme funded first by the BDA and then by the Erdington Neighbourhood Network support scheme and Birmingham City Council - in association with the Witton Lodge Community Association.
In the Summer of 2022, the Club hosted a number of sessions for special needs adults and children's groups, again supported by the BDA.
During the indoor season, the Club plays host to a Crown Green League and to Probus - an organisation for retired business people.
A family friendly form of the game was introduced in 2022 called 'Bowls Bash.' Non members can book an hour's play with equipment supplied by the Club. In 2023, the Club has been supporting the local Macular Society and has also built strong links with the Erdington Walking Group.
The Club also regularly helps the local Poppy Appeal for the British Legion.
The Club lies in an area that was a large lake until the early 1800's. Find out more HERE.