British Gypsum is proud to support Gotham Bowls Club with a £1,500 donation to help restore critical facilities following a challenging year for the club and the local community.
Situated on the Village Memorial Ground, Gotham Bowls Club has been a cornerstone of the community since its founding in 1930. Despite having a small membership of 20-25 players, the bowls club plays a vital role in local social life and is always eager to welcome new members. While membership subscriptions cover day-to-day maintenance, additional funds for larger projects come from social events held in the club’s pavilion.
However, in spring 2023, a devastating fire at the Memorial Hall (home to the village’s doctors’ surgery) left Gotham without a dispensary. In response, the club generously offered its pavilion as a temporary location for nearly a year. While this ensured continued access to medical services, it also meant the club was unable to host its usual fundraising events, creating financial strain.
As a result, the club faced significant challenges in replacing its damaged water tank, which is essential for irrigating the bowling green. Recognising the importance of this facility, British Gypsum contributed £1,500 towards the project, joining Gotham Parish Council and other local organisations to secure the necessary funds for a new tank and protective fencing.
“We knew that British Gypsum had helped support other projects in the village, so we approached them as part of our fundraising efforts,” said a representative from Gotham Bowls Club. “Good irrigation is essential, and without this funding, it would have been extremely difficult to maintain the green to the standard our members and visitors expect.”
Keith Givens, Plant Manager at British Gypsum’s East Leake location, added “At British Gypsum, we are always looking for ways to support the communities where we operate. Gotham Bowls Club plays an essential role in bringing people together, and we are delighted to help them recover from the challenges they’ve faced over the past few years.”
Looking ahead, Gotham Bowls Club aims to improve accessibility by enhancing the pathways around the green lifting uneven slabs and relaying, and upgrading its restroom facilities to be more disabled friendly and easier to maintain. These improvements will depend on future funding, but the club remains committed to making the space as welcoming as possible for all.
British Gypsum’s commitment to supporting education and local communities remains at the heart of its values. The company continues to seek opportunities to make a positive difference in the areas it serves.
For more information about British Gypsum’s community projects and available support, visit https://www.british-gypsum.com/building-better-communities/our-charitable-support