Three bowlers from Nailsea Bowls Club are celebrating a total of 152 years of playing for the club.

Club president Richard Jefferies stepped on to the green for the first time in his younger days 55 years ago, Roger Chappell has played for 51 years, and David Flower 46 years. 

While their loyalty is being etched into the club’s history, they have no intention of retiring and are looking forward eagerly to the new summer season. 

Richard said: “I was fascinated when work started to build the town’s Mizzymead Recreation Centre and to discover the site included a bowling green. 

“I inquired how to join the club and as a founder member, paid my half-a-crown annual subscription and was elected on to the committee. 

“As I gained experience, I began competing and spent a large part of my career enjoying individual and team competitions throughout the Southwest. 

“I was also proud to introduce my son Julian to the game and he went to great heights to represent England at international level.”

Roger took up bowls after turning his back on cricket after his one and only game ended in bitter disappointment. 

He said: “I didn’t get the chance to bat or bowl an over and when I was fielding, I never touched the ball, so I considered (cricket) a waste of time. 

“My father encouraged me to take up bowls and after a half-century of thoroughly enjoying myself, I feel I made the right decision. 

“One of the highlights came last summer when I captained the club’s B team that finished champions of the Somerset County League’s Division Three North. 

“The group was made up of experienced players and newcomers who blended in perfectly to claim the title 32-points ahead of our nearest rival and with three games to spare.’ 

David’s memories include travelling on team tours to compete in ten countries spread across the world from Canada to Australia and New Zealand. 

He said: “It was a marvellous experience. I’ve played at different levels of the game and afterwards I always enjoy a pint with my team-mates and opposition. 

“I have thoroughly enjoyed the game and the camaraderie that runs alongside it.”

If anyone would like to join the men’s or ladies’ sections at Nailsea Bowls Club with free coaching at the start of the new summer season, they should contact Secretary John Hall at jhall.nbc@gmail.com for further information.