Mid Sussex dementia group join bowlers for day of fun on the green
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Haywards Heath and Beech Hurst’s bowling green rang to the sound of laughter and applause as club players mingled with a group of people who do not normally get the chance to try their skills at the sport.
The club supports the Alzheimer’s Society in Mid Sussex with a special afternoon each summer to provide some of those with dementia – and their carers – with the opportunity to play bowls.
More than 20 took part this year, with around 15 club members helping guide them through the basics of a sport that they all agreed is trickier than it looks.
Club talent scouts were eyeing up some of the participants, who appeared to be more than rookies at the sport, with some pinpoint efforts – and their guests were unanimous in their wish to return next year.
Club chairman John Milsom said the number taking part had grown each year, and club players were keen to provide a helping hand as they not only witness the enjoyment of the participants and their families but get to discover a little about the condition.
He said: “Most of us at our age can relate to it because in most families, there is someone with something like this.
“It’s such a lovely day, and it’s so lovely to see how many of our members come along to help out.”
'Amazingly supportive'
The annual day is organised by the club’s honorary secretary, Jennie Evans, with help from Mr Milsom, club treasurer Basil Larkins and Tim Wilkins, of Alzheimer’s Society West Sussex.
He said: “I approached Haywards Heath and Beech Hurst Bowls Club and they were amazingly supportive - and have been ever since - with the idea to come and play bowls instead of having our monthly meeting at Haywards Heath Age UK.
“Having one of the bowls club members supporting each session is key. This enables people who haven’t played bowls before to have a go at something different. And, of course, if people enjoy it, perhaps they could continue to play the game on a more regular basis.
“It is the support of the bowls club and their members that makes the afternoon go so well. The members make such a difference by being so understanding with the needs of everyone who is bowling.”