Oakley Bowling Club
Founded in 1978
Formed in January 1978 Oakley Bowling Club was the first Club in Hampshire to be totally mixed. All members, both male and female, had equal rights and all could aspire to the highest offices of the Club. Oakley first elected a lady as President in 1983.
The Club played initially on a green rented from the Council in Basingstoke but in 1984, following extensive fund raising, it moved to its present home, looking out over the Downs at Malshanger. Thanks are due to Sir Michael and Lady Colman for having allowed us to locate in such a splendid position. Recently, as part of a drive to improve further its facilities, the club has agreed with Mr Jamie Colman arrangements which give it greater security of tenure. A lease of the Bowling Green, its surrounds and car park was signed on 1st May 2009 and will run for 25 years.
Oakley contributes a great deal to the bowling community. During its short life, members have been President of the English Women's Bowling Association (EWBA), Bowls Hampshire, Hampshire County Women's Bowling Association (HCWBA), the North Hampshire Women's Bowling Association (NHWBA), the Basingstoke and District Bowling Association (BDBA) (twice) and the Whitchurch League (twice).
Currently Oakley members hold the posts of Vice Chair and Area Secretary(Ladies) of Bowls Hampshire and National Selector (Women). Many of the Officer and Director posts in the local Indoor Club (Loddon Vale) have over the years been filled by Oakley members.
Despite its prowess in administration and bowling Oakley is as well known for its friendliness. It plays a large number of "friendly" games, both outdoors and indoors, has toured every year since 1982 in either England, Scotland or Wales and strives always to promote the game and to ensure fellowship in both bowling and social activities.
