Early Christmas present for Stamford Park bowlers

Date published: 10 December 2009

Stamford Park bowlers now have a place to meet after their pavilion was destroyed in a suspected arson attack earlier this year.

Stalybridge District Assembly hand over the keys to Veterans Bowling Club for their temporary home on Friday 11 December at 1.00pm.

The pavilion was a much loved venue for bowlers to meet up on a daily basis and for many it was a second home. The loss of the facility was a huge blow and something which threatened to destroy the comradeship and sense of community for the bowling veterans.

Cllr Kevin Welsh, Chair of Stalybridge District Assembly said: “We were appalled when the pavilion was burnt down and vowed to provide a temporary facility which could be used by the veterans pending the construction of a brand new pavilion as part of the forthcoming restoration of the park. I am pleased that we have been able to move quickly to provide this facility for the Stamford Park Veterans. I am also very grateful to the Stamford Park ladies bowling group who have stepped in to help out the veterans in their hour of need.”

Bill Storer, Chairman of the Veterans Club said: “We were devastated when the pavilion was burnt down and met with Cllrs Welsh and Sweeton to ask for their help. We are really pleased that they have been able to respond so quickly and provide us with this temporary building before the winter sets in. The club is so important to us, as it is a place where we socialise and share time together, at our time of life this is really important!”