Club History
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Corley Bowling Club Est. 1962
As we celebrate 62 years of the Corley Bowling Club, it is important to honour those who have shaped it. Our current life members deserve immense gratitude for their unwavering dedication to the club. John Williams stands out as a pillar of Corley, having devoted over three decades as a member and more than 22 years in leadership roles. His prowess as a bowler was matched only by his loyalty to Corley, which he proudly represented with the county level badge on his chest. His wife Marlene was equally engaged in the club's activities, particularly within the ladies' section. Bernard Tranter's name is synonymous with Corley Bowling Club. His tenure as secretary and his partnership with John were marked by commitment and camaraderie. Bernard's wife Stella, alongside Marlene, played an active role in fostering the community spirit that defines our club. Graham Spencer's name is etched into the club's history as well. His meticulous financial stewardship over 32 years has been pivotal in ensuring the club's stability. Graham's versatility is evident in his multiple roles over the years, including President/Chairman, Secretary, Competition Secretary, and coach. His ongoing involvement is a testament to his dedication. Barbara Spencer mirrors her husband's commitment to Corley. Her 35-year tenure is distinguished by active committee participation and her skill as a bowler. Barbara has held various positions within the ladies' section and continues to contribute significantly. As we look back on these remarkable individuals, we are reminded of the collective effort that sustains the Corley Bowling Club and look forward to many more years of friendship and success. Full Story from Ian Oliver - Club President
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In the early 1960’s, a visionary group of Corley businessmen, along with their peers from nearby areas, were galvanized by the triumphant efforts that revitalized the Village Hall. They approached the Church Commission via the Corley Village Hall Committee, proposing to transform the neglected tennis courts behind the Village Hall into a vibrant bowling green. Their request was met with approval in a letter dated 18th May 1962, marking the inception of Corley Bowling Club. The club's founding members—V. Barr, H. Bray, J. Brindley, H. Clark, A. Day, A. Dusson, W. Gibson, H. Grimley, W. Halbert, N. Harris, K. Lenton N. Hudson E. Lester J. Richardson R. Suddens E. Taberer E. Tooms and H. Williams—were instrumental in its creation. Jack Grimley of Grimley Haulage Company generously supplied and delivered the materials for the green and continued his support until his passing. Fueled by sheer enthusiasm, the members laid out the green without seeking specialist advice, resulting in an out-of-square shape and a slope that followed the tennis courts' natural incline. They believed that a solid core foundation was unnecessary if topped with quality soil—a decision that would later pose challenges. Despite these initial hiccups, the grass sprouted, albeit unevenly, and the green was inaugurated. It became apparent that to flourish and host other clubs, modifications were imperative. With bulldozers and dedicated manual labour, they squared the green and installed proper drainage by 1965, readying a full roster of matches against other clubs. The burgeoning club recognized the need for a clubhouse with changing rooms to further its growth. Embodying the indomitable Corley spirit, members were asked to contribute interest-free loans for this endeavor. Their overwhelming response enabled the construction under Ernie Taberer's stewardship—one of the original founders and a local builder—and in 1972, the sports pavilion opened its doors. | |||
