Lawn Bowls is a sport that involves rolling biased balls, called "bowls," across a grass or synthetic surface towards a smaller target ball, called the "jack." The objective of the game is to roll the bowls as close to the jack as possible, and score points based on the number of bowls that are closer to the jack than your opponent's bowls.

Lawn Bowls can be played individually or in teams, and is a game that requires precision, strategy, and patience. It is typically played on a flat, rectangular or square-shaped lawn, known as a "green," which is divided into sections called rinks.

The sport originated in the UK and is popular in many countries around the world, particularly in Commonwealth countries such as Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. It is a game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities, and can be played for fun or competitively in local and national tournaments.

Here are some of the most common lawn bowling keywords:

1. Jack: A small white ball that is used as a target in lawn bowling.
2. Bias: The curved path that a lawn bowling ball takes as it rolls towards the jack.
3. Bowl: Another name for a lawn bowling ball.
4. Rink: The playing area for lawn bowling.
5. End: A single round of lawn bowling in which each player or team takes turns rolling their bowls towards the jack.
6. Skips: The captain or leader of a lawn bowling team who directs the play and strategy.
7. Mat: A rectangular rubber mat used as a starting point for each end of lawn bowling.The mat's maximum 18 inches by 12 inches.
8. Delivery: The act of rolling the lawn bowling ball towards the jack.
9. Toucher: A bowl that comes into contact with the jack during play. If that toucher goes into the ditch it is still 'live' and it could be in the count.
10. Head: The area around the jack where the bowls have come to rest at the end of an end.

The History of Lawn Bowls

Lawn bowls, also known as "bowls," is a sport that has been played for centuries. The game is believed to have originated in ancient Egypt, with evidence of a similar game being played by the Greeks and Romans. However, it wasn't until the 13th century that the game became popular in Europe, particularly in England.

In the early days of lawn bowls, the game was played on natural grass surfaces, with the bowls themselves made of stone or wood. The rules were simple, with players taking turns to roll their bowls as close as possible to a target called the "jack."

Over time, the game evolved, with new materials and equipment being developed. By the 19th century, lawn bowls had become a popular pastime in England, with the first national championship being held in 1845.

In the 20th century, lawn bowls continued to grow in popularity, with the game being introduced to new countries such as Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. The International Bowling Board was formed in 1905 to govern the sport worldwide, and the first World Bowls Championship was held in 1966.

Today, lawn bowls is played in over 40 countries, with millions of people participating in the sport. The game continues to evolve, with new technology and innovations being developed to make the game more accessible and enjoyable for players of all ages and skill levels.

Lawn bowls is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. Here is a basic guide on how to play lawn bowls:
Equipment:
* Lawn bowls: These are the spherical balls that players use to roll towards the target. Each player has a set of four bowls, which are colour-coded for identification.
* Jack: This is the small white ball that serves as the target for the game.
* Mat: This is where the players stand to deliver their bowls. It is placed at one end of the rink.
* Rink: This is the rectangular playing surface where the game takes place.
Rules:
* The game can be played by two individuals (singles), three individuals (triples), or four individuals (fours).
* The game starts with the jack being rolled to the other end of the rink by a player from the team that won the coin toss.
* The first player then delivers their bowl, attempting to get as close to the jack as possible.
* The opposing team then takes their turn to deliver their bowls, attempting to get closer to the jack than the previous team.
* The game continues in this manner, with each team taking turns to deliver their bowls until all the bowls have been played.
* The team with the closest bowl to the jack scores one point. If they have more than one bowl closer to the jack than any of their opponent's bowls, they score one point for each additional bowl that is closer.
* The game is played over a set number of ends (usually between 7 and 21), with the team that scores the most points at the end of the game being declared the winner.
Delivery:
* Players must stand on the mat to deliver their bowls.
* The bowl must be rolled along the ground, with the aim of getting as close to the jack as possible.
* The player can use a variety of delivery techniques, such as a backhand, forehand, or a draw shot.
* Players can also use different types of bowls, which have different characteristics that can affect their delivery. You must decide what set to use and they cannot be changed after the match begins.

Etiquette:
* Players must always be courteous and respectful to their opponents and fellow players.
* Players must not disturb other players while they are delivering their bowls.
* Players must not touch the bowls or the jack while the game is in progress.
* Players must follow the instructions of the umpire or referee.
Lawn bowls is a sport that requires skill, strategy, and concentration. With practice and patience, anyone can enjoy the game and become a proficient player.

To play lawn bowls, you will need the following equipment:

1. 1. Bowls: These are the balls used to play the game. They are available in different sizes, weights, and colors, and are made of various materials, such as wood, rubber, or composite. (To start you off supplied by your club)
   2. Bowls bag: This is used to carry your bowls. It can be made of canvas or synthetic materials and comes in various sizes.
   3. Bowling mat: This is used to mark the position from where you will deliver your bowl. It is usually made of rubber or synthetic materials. The mat shall not exceed 18 inches by 12 inches.(Mats are supplied by your club)
   4. Scorecard: This is used to keep track of the score during the game. (Supplied by your club)
   5. A measure, when you cannot decide who's nearest to the jack by eye.
   6. Chalk or a chalk spray, when a bowl needs to be marked. Can be white or a coloured one.
   7. Footwear: Lawn bowls can be played in either flat-soled shoes or specially designed lawn bowls shoes that have a non-slip flat sole.
   8. Clothing: There are no specific clothing requirements for lawn bowls, but players usually wear white clothing in competitions (or gray). It's essential to dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
   9. Sunscreen: Since lawn bowls is an outdoor sport, it's important to wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.
   10. Hat: A hat can also be helpful to protect your head and face from the sun.
   11. Towel: It's always handy to have a towel to dry off your bowl or wipe your hands during the game.
   12. Water bottle: Lawn bowls can be physically demanding, so it's important to stay hydrated during the game.
   13. A bowls gatherer, caller a pusher. These are always supplied by your club.

Single sided scorecard style 8 1/4” x 2 3/4 ” 21 cm x 7 cm.
Printed text covers Competition Date Rink No 1 2 3 S Shots Total Ends up to 30.
Sold in 100’s with clear black print. Cost about £7 per 100
SUPPLIED BY CLUB

There are several different types of lawn bowling competitions. Here are some of the most common ones:

1. Singles: In this type of competition, each player bowls individually against another player. The first player to reach a predetermined number of points, usually 21, wins the match. (using 4 bowls). To 21 shots. (first player to score 21 points)

Also a Two woods competition -21 ends played

2. Pairs: In pairs competition, two players form a team and bowl against another team of two players. Each team takes turns to bowl, and the team with the highest score at the end of the game wins after  18 ends are played. (using 4 bowls each player) 18 ends played.

3. Triples: In triples, teams of three players compete against each other. Each player bowls twice, and the team with the highest score at the end of the game wins. (using 3 bowls for each player) 18 ends

4. Fours: Fours is similar to triples, but with teams of four players. Each player bowls twice, and the team with the highest score at the end of the game wins. (using 2 bowls fo each player) 18 ends

5. Mixed Pairs: Mixed pairs is a competition where two players of opposite genders form a team and play against other mixed pairs teams. The rules are the same as for regular pairs. (using 4 bowls) 18 ends

6. Team events: In team events, several teams compete against each other. Each team has a certain number of players, and the team with the highest score at the end of the game wins.

7. Championship events: These are high-level competitions that are often played over several days, with players competing individually or as part of a team. Championship events may have stricter rules and regulations than other types of competitions.

These are just a few examples of the many types of lawn bowling competitions that exist. The exact format and rules of each competition may vary depending on the specific event and the organisers.

In lawn bowling, the correct term for the spherical object (with a bias) that players roll towards a target ball (the jack) is "bowls." The term woods is also used especially by older players.

I want to share with you the joys and benefits of taking up the sport of lawn bowling. Not only is it a great way to stay active and healthy, but it is also a wonderful way to connect with others and form lasting friendships.

Lawn bowling is a sport that requires skill, strategy, and patience. It challenges you to think ahead and make precise shots, all while enjoying the beautiful outdoors. Whether you're playing singles or doubles, you'll quickly discover that lawn bowling is a sport that is as much mental as it is physical.

But beyond the sport itself, the community of lawn bowlers is a supportive and welcoming one. You'll meet people of all ages and backgrounds who share your passion for the game. And as you improve your skills and participate in tournaments, you'll have the opportunity to travel and compete against other bowlers from around the world.

So if you're looking for a new challenge and a way to stay active and connected with others, I encourage you to give lawn bowling a try. Who knows, you may discover a lifelong passion and a community that will enrich your life for years to come.

Best of luck to you, check out your local club.  Alan Miller

Here are some health and safety guidelines and measures that lawn bowling clubs can follow to ensure the safety of their members:

1. Ensure the green is in good condition: The green should be regularly maintained to ensure that it is level, free from hazards, and provides a safe playing surface for members. 
2. Establish rules and regulations: The club should establish clear rules and regulations regarding the use of the green, the use of equipment, and conduct on the green.
3. Provide safety information: The club should provide safety information to its members, including information on safe practices when handling equipment, how to avoid common injuries, and what to do in case of an emergency.
4. Train members: The club should provide training for members on the proper use of equipment and safe playing practices.
5. Have a first aid kit on site: The club should have a well-stocked first aid kit on site, and members should be made aware of its location.
6. Monitor weather conditions: The club should monitor weather conditions and take appropriate action, such as closing the green, if weather conditions are hazardous.
7. Ensure proper lighting: If the club has evening or early morning sessions, the green should be properly lit to ensure that members can see any hazards and avoid accidents.
8. Follow all local health and safety guidelines: The club should follow all local health and safety guidelines to ensure the safety of its members.

By following these guidelines, lawn bowling clubs can create a safe and enjoyable environment for their members.

Defibrillator available at all times

Having a defibrillator available at all times can be crucial in case of a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) emergency. A defibrillator is a device that delivers an electric shock to the heart to restore its normal rhythm. When used within the first few minutes of an SCA, a defibrillator can significantly increase the chances of survival.

It is recommended that lawn bowling clubs have at least one Automated External Defibrillator (AED) available on the premises. The AED should be in good working condition and easily accessible in case of an emergency.

In addition to having an AED on-site, it is also important to ensure that members are trained in how to use the device. Members should be familiar with the location of the AED and know how to access it quickly in case of an emergency. Training can be provided by a qualified instructor or through online resources.

By having a defibrillator available and ensuring that members are trained in its use, lawn bowling clubs can take an important step in ensuring the safety of their members.MORE CLICK HERE. IT MAY SAVE OUR LIFE

Exact location

The 3 word address refers to an exact 3m x 3m location. Tap the link or enter the 3 words into the free what3words app to find it. eg; say you have an accident in the middle of Hampstead Heath for the emergency service to find you by entering just 3 words you will be found.

Bowls England, the governing body for the sport of lawn bowls in England, as of 2021 there were over 2,500 affiliated clubs in England alone, with approximately 240,000 members