As the outdoor bowling season draws to a close, Gilwern Community Bowls Club reflects on a memorable and successful year, filled with strong performances, community spirit, and exciting new developments both on and off the green.
Ladies’ and Men’s Teams
The Ladies’ team enjoyed another strong season, finishing fourth in the Pen-Y-Glyn Afternoon League. They faced tougher competition in the Evening League but still secured a respectable seventh place finish.
The Men’s team also showed significant progress, achieving a solid mid-table position in the Monmouth 5th Division League and narrowly missing promotion by just a few points.
Both teams are delighted with their performances and the positive blend of new and experienced players, signalling a bright future for the club.
Club Competitions
The 2025 Club Competition once again attracted great enthusiasm, with over 40 members competing across multiple categories.
Final results:
- Ladies’ Singles: Karen Fulton (winner) vs. Sheila Howells
- Men’s Singles: Mark Wells (winner) vs. Kevin G. Davies
- Novice Singles: Ken Christie (winner) vs. Richie Rees
- Ladies’ Doubles: Rebecca Clements & Wendy Davies (winners) vs. Sarah Dixon & Victoria Tyler
- Men’s Doubles: Mick Axford & Tony Corfield (winners) vs. Ken Christie & Alwyn Davies
- Mixed Doubles: Karen Fulton & Richard Davis (winners) vs. Lynda Tindle & Mick Axford
- Champion of Champions: Mark Wells (winner) vs. Karen Fulton
Outstanding Player Achievements
Several members also represented the club with distinction at regional and county level. Mark Wells reached the finals of the East Monmouthshire Regional Open Singles, while Mick Axford qualified for the Over-60s Finals. Brian and Sandra Hughes – a brother-and-sister pairing – reached the Mixed Doubles final.
Unfortunately, the East Monmouthshire finals, originally scheduled for 14th October, were postponed due to bad weather and will now take place early next season.
The club also celebrated the county debuts of two Ladies’ team players, Karen Fulton and Jill Howells — a proud moment for both the club and the players.
Club Pavilion Reopening Ceremony
A major highlight of the year was the official reopening of the Club Pavilion following an extensive refurbishment. The restyled interior now boasts energy-efficient features, environmental upgrades, and a new bar facility.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Peter Williams, President of the Monmouthshire Bowling Association. The club expressed heartfelt thanks to its principal supporters – Sport Wales, Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority, and the Gilwern Village Tote – as well as local businesses and members whose contributions made the project possible.
The revitalised pavilion will host a variety of social events throughout the winter months. Details can be found on the Gilwern Community Bowls Club Facebook page.
Community Engagement and Outreach
Community involvement continued to thrive in 2025. Club members Karen Fulton, Anne Konieczny, and Jill Howells led a successful coaching programme with the local primary school, introducing Year 3 pupils to the sport.
Two young participants, Laurie and Rowan, enjoyed the sessions so much that they – along with their parents – joined the club’s evening coaching sessions and even took part in home friendlies. The pair, sporting custom-made Gilwern jerseys crafted by Jill Howells, became instant favourites among members and visiting teams alike.
The club plans to continue and expand this partnership next year, inspiring even more young bowlers from the community.
In addition, the club will participate in the Monmouthshire Warm Space Campaign, offering a welcoming and heated venue for residents of all ages during the winter months. The pavilion will be open on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. through to the end of March.
In Remembrance
The club also pauses to remember one of its most cherished members, Hilary Clifford, who sadly passed away in May. Hilary’s immense contributions, sportsmanship, and friendship will long be remembered. Her legacy will remain an enduring part of the Gilwern Community Bowls Club.
Looking Ahead
As the club closes the chapter on a fulfilling 2025 season, members can look forward to continued growth, stronger competition, and an even greater sense of community in the year ahead.
Gilwern Bowls Club 
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