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EDITOR'S BLOG

A SAD DECLINE
Rapid decrease in memberships
by TurfPro Editor, Laurence Gale MSC, MBPR

As a passionate, practicing turf professional, I find it difficult to witness the sad decline of one of our wonderful local community sports facilities - the bowls club.

As a passionate, practicing turf professional, I find it difficult to witness the sad decline of one of our wonderful local community sports facilities.

A good friend and work colleague of mine, an ex England bowler (Crown Green) and current practicing greenkeeper, also tells me he is frustrated with the ongoing decline in the membership of bowls clubs.

Many of the local bowling clubs in Shropshire have seen a rapid decrease in membership numbers, with some clubs barely able to run regular teams.
This downward spiral of membership has been going on for several years and has resulted in many clubs folding.

I have highlighted this problem in two previous TurfPro blogs - Bowls In Decline and The Current State of Bowls.

Talking to several Midlands turf professionals and contractors who look after bowling greens, there has most definitely been a decline in the number of bowling greens in existence. These have mostly been lost due to closures caused reduced memberships and a lack of maintenance funds.

Bowling was once one of the nation’s most popular pastimes and the bowling green has been part of the fabric of our towns and villages since the 1940s. Back in the late 1950s, early 60s, most large public parks, working social & sport clubs and pubs had a bowling green.

However, during the last twenty years, we have seen a steady loss of these facilities. When I worked for Birmingham City Council back in the 1980s, I myself looked after several greens - only one now remains. Likewise, when I worked for Telford and Wrekin Council we manged several bowling greens within the borough, however, due to the austerity cutbacks, many have now been passed over to the individual clubs to maintain and manage.

One of the biggest problems for clubs is the ongoing cost of maintenance of the green. When I was managing some council greens back in the late 1990s, the annual maintenance for the upkeep of a council bowling green was around £6,000 per year, which included end of season renovations.

That annual cost of maintaining a bowling green, based on today’s rates would be in the region of at least £12,000 per green and that includes end of season renovations which generally see the green aerated, scarified and top dressed with four ton of sand, fertilised and overseeded.

Whether you hire in contractors or do the work yourselves, there will always be a price for time and for resources required to undertake the work. The key for me is that clubs need to have a good look at themselves and see how they can raise the amount of money required to complete the maintenance of their facilities.

Unfortunately, many of these bowling clubs are running on dwindling memberships with clubs having between 50-100 members.

Many clubs are only charging between £30-£50 per year and a match fee. This clearly limits the amount of capital clubs can raise.

So in reality, a club with a 100 members paying £50 per year would only raise £5000 not anywhere enough to pay for the maintenance of the green (£12,000) therefore club membership costs should be in the realms of £150-200 per year. Still a cheap membership rate in my estimation, compared to other private run facilities such as gyms and spa centres.

Clubs need to address this and look at ways of increasing funding via both membership fees and other fundraising initiatives, while at the same time finding ways to bring in new members.

I would also question the sport’s governing bodies (Bowls England and Crown Green Bowling) who need to address the issue of bringing new people into the sport.

Most club members are between 50-80 years of age, with many clubs struggling to attract youngsters to take up the game.

Many clubs have purely survived on the basis that they were able to undertake most of the maintenance work themselves instead of paying a professional greenkeeper or contractor to do the work. However, with so many of these volunteers getting older and not physically able to carry out the work, clubs are now faced with having to pay the proper going rates for maintaining their greens.

It is clearly a sad indictment that clubs find themselves in this predicament. In my opinion, clubs need to have a good look at themselves and find ways of increasing their membership and encouraging local people to take up the sport.

More importantly though, they must get the existing members to pay the proper membership rate to help cover the running costs.

NEWS

GOLF FACILITY OF THE YEAR AWARDED
Presented recently

In our first WEB ONLY story organisers say the award recognises the provision of an impressive and remarkable golf experience for members and guests, while being regarded as a first-class golf operation.

EGO OWNER ACQUIRES
Power tool company

In our next WEB ONLY story, business says the acquisition means professionals can look forward to a growing selection of power tools and cordless garden equipment.

AGROVISTA ANNOUNCES CHARITY PARTNER
Aims to support their customers

Partnership is not just about financial contributions, with the company saying they are also committed to raising awareness.

Agrovista Amenity has announced its partnership with Perennial, the UK's only charity dedicated to supporting those who work with grass, trees, flowers, or plants.

Commenting on the partnership, Perennial’s corporate partnership manager, Phil Swainston, said, "We're thrilled to have Agrovista onboard as a Perennial Partner. Their continued support for the amenity sector, as showcased in their fantastic #ForOurSports campaign, is truly inspiring. Their proactive and dedicated approach to customer support deeply resonates with us at Perennial. Together, we look forward to making a significant impact in the industry.”

Perennial is the UK's sole charity supporting all those working in the horticultural community, as well as those who have retired. Perennial provides a lifeline to individuals and families in horticulture facing a wide range of challenges.

Over the last two year Agrovista say their #ForOurSports campaign has flourished through various initiatives, including branded vehicles, community events, industry award sponsorships, and support for local charities.

Jodie Champion, head of marketing for Agrovista, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "Through the #ForOurSports campaign, we aim to demonstrate our support for our customers and our determination to tackle future challenges alongside them."

The company also said the partnership is not just about financial contributions. Agrovista Amenity is also committed to raising awareness about Perennial's free and confidential helpline. With the company's extensive marketing reach and local amenity teams, customers can be informed that help is readily available should they ever need it.

"We are inspired by the remarkable work that Perennial does to support the industry,” continued Jodie. “By joining forces with them, we hope to highlight that there is compassionate assistance available for those who need it."

If you are in need of support, visit www.perennial.org.uk or call the Perennial helpline on 0800 093 8543.

GMA APPOINTS
Head of events

New appointee's immediate focus will be on SALTEX 2024, playing a crucial role in shaping the strategy and execution of this year’s exhibition.

The Grounds Management Association (GMA) has announced the appointment of Sarah Hunter as its new head of events.

The Association says with her extensive experience and proven track record in event management, Sarah brings a wealth of expertise and enthusiasm to this role.

As head of events, Sarah’s immediate focus will be on SALTEX 2024. Sarah will play a crucial role in shaping the overall strategy and execution of this year’s exhibition.

"I am thrilled to join the GMA team and lead the events strategy for SALTEX 2024," said Sarah. "I am committed to delivering events that exceed expectations and provide immense value to our attendees, exhibitors, and partners. I am confident that SALTEX 2024 will set a new standard for excellence in the industry."

Sarah is a seasoned events professional and joins the GMA after 12 years with NICEIC (National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting), a certification body in the construction industry. Throughout her tenure, Sarah says she spearheaded hundreds of successful events, exhibitions, conferences, and webinars across the UK, from concept to completion.

"We are delighted to welcome Sarah Hunter to the GMA as our new head of events," said Sarah Cunningham, director of commercial and events at the GMA. "Her exceptional leadership skills and passion for delivering outstanding events make her the perfect fit for this role."

SALTEX takes place at Birmingham NEC on 30th and 31st October 2024.

A 'LEGEND IN MACHINERY SALES' RETIRES
Following 34 years service

Dealership says he leaves behind a legacy of passion, dedication and unparalleled salesmanship.

After 34 years of dedicated service in machinery sales, T H White have announced that Laurence White has bid farewell to their Machinery Imports division, leaving behind a legacy of "passion, dedication and unparalleled salesmanship."

Laurence White

In a statement on the company's website, T H White said that Laurence’s illustrious career spans over three decades, during which he has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence. Joining T H White Machinery Imports eight years ago, Laurence brought with him a wealth of experience and an infectious enthusiasm that energised the entire team.

The statement continued, "Throughout his tenure, Laurence’s passion for machinery sales never waned. Even in his final week, he remained at the forefront, actively engaging in selling and demonstrating machinery with the same fervour as he did on his first day. His dedication was exemplified by a remarkable feat in his last days, where he successfully sold nine Ferris Zero Turn mowers to a local authority - a testament to his unparalleled salesmanship and deep industry knowledge."

Beyond his professional achievements, T H White said Laurence is known for his passionate demeanour and genuine care for his colleagues and clients. "His approachable nature and willingness to go the extra mile have earned him the respect and admiration of all who have had the pleasure of working with him," they said.

Laurence says he now plans to spend more time with his beloved family, indulge in his passion for motorbikes, and navigate the tranquil waters aboard his narrowboat.

The dealership's statement concluded, "To Laurence, we express our sincere gratitude for his invaluable contributions to T H White Machinery Imports. His dedication, enthusiasm and unwavering commitment to excellence have made a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to work alongside him. As he begins this new chapter, we wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement. Farewell, Laurence, and may your future be as fulfilling as your remarkable legacy."

Sponsored Content

STIHL EXPANDS AS SYSTEM
Three new tools

STIHL has expanded its AS System range with the introduction of the HSA 30 and HSA 40 hedge trimmers, along with the FSA 30 grass trimmer.

STIHL has expanded its AS System range with the introduction of the HSA 30 and HSA 40 hedge trimmers, along with the FSA 30 grass trimmer, providing gardeners with compact, lightweight, and efficient tools for tackling various tasks with ease.

HSA 30

The HSA 30 and HSA 40 hedge trimmers are designed to make light work of fresh growth on small hedges. Both models feature high-quality diamond-ground and hardened blades, ensuring a clean cut and long-lasting sharpness. Weighing in as the lightest hedge trimmer in STIHL’s extensive range, the HSA 30 is perfect for all home gardeners. Additionally, these trimmers operate almost silently, offering a peaceful gardening experience. With impressive working times of 50 and 40 minutes respectively, users can easily complete their tasks on a single charge. Plus, with a lifetime supply of gearbox grease included, maintenance is hassle-free.

HSA 40

For more demanding tasks, the HSA 40 boasts 25% better cutting performance than the HSA 30. The HSA 40 features a 5cm longer cutting bar, 2mm larger tooth spacing, and comes with an extra AS 2 battery for extended working times.

FSA 30

In addition to hedge trimmers, the STIHL FSA 30 is the first grass trimmer to feature in the AS System range. Designed for small gardens, this trimmer offers optimum balance and control with its lightweight design and adjustable loop handle. Its extendable shaft and adjustable trimming head ensure customisation for users of different heights, providing a neat and even cut for lawn edges.

With a working time of up to 19 minutes on a single charge, the FSA 30, equipped with PolyCut blades, delivers efficient performance and durability.

For more information, please visit www.stihl.co.uk.

JOBS

PROGRAMME LEADER
Technical / Equipment Management

The Bernhard Academy is seeking a motivated individual to join them in developing technical workshops to enhance industry skills.

The Bernhard Academy, established in 2019, has expanded to four hubs across the UK and USA, offering personal and professional development for sports turf professionals.

Join us in developing technical workshops to enhance industry skills. We seek a motivated individual to create, manage, and deliver these workshops. National and international travel is required.

Role:

Develop and deliver world-class learning programmes in Technical Training and Equipment Management
Review and adapt programmes for best practices
Collaborate with internal and external teams to execute opportunities
Lead team meetings to maximise productivity
Embody the Bernhard Academy's objectives

Person:

Strong technical background in sports turf equipment maintenance
Coordination and event experience
Excellent communication skills
Ability to prioritise tasks
Teamwork and leadership experience
Organisational and detail-oriented
Solution-oriented mindset
Willingness to travel
Committed to personal and professional growth

Full-time position with competitive salary and benefits, including holiday, pension, life insurance, and hybrid working arrangement (offices in Rugby and Haverhill).

Send CV and cover letter to recruitment@bernhard.co.uk

Closing date: 7th June 2024

Link to job posting: https://bernhard.co.uk/careers/

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