BALERNO BOWLING CLUB

There have been two welcome additions to the Club Committee, the new Lady President, Helen Girdler and Morag Moffat. Both are past Presidents and bring a wealth of experience to their roles. As, this season, Helen hopes to equal Jessie Downie’s record of 5 Ladies Championships she will have a busy time. It is good to see Morag returning to the Committee after a prolonged absence. She has been missed. Staying with the Ladies Section, all must be delighted that Margaret Turner now feels able to accept the post of Match Secretary. Margaret has not enjoyed the best of health in recent times. We wish her well.
Talking of the Turner’s, Margaret’s husband, Brian, may hold a little known distinction amongst the membership. Our longest serving member is Alan Rankin who this year chalks up 65 years. According to Club records, the second is Bobby Marshall who, having joined in 1956, this year reaches 50 years. Bobby is closely followed by Simon Mackay on 48. After David Martin on 46, come David Stoddart and the aforesaid Brian Turner on 45. However, unlike all the others mentioned, Brian does not yet qualify for Life Membership and still pays the full subscription. Surely he might reasonably claim to be the Club’s major contributor! Unless, of course, you know better!
For those members who do not frequent the Club during the winter months, another transformation is taking place. As you make your way to the Changing rooms, take a peek at the upstairs kitchen and prepare to be impressed. Work is not yet finished so perhaps we should save our full thanks until later but so far we very much like what we see.
We have had a long association in various ways with Balerno Football Club since it’s formation in 1967. Our Past President , Paddy Welsh, is arranging a Reunion Celebration for all who have played for the BFC here, in the bowling club, on Saturday, 24th June. So, if you were a player, particularly in the early days, or if you know someone who was, give Paddy a ring on 0131 449 3854 for further details.
Regretably, a family bereavement prevented me from attending the Burns Supper. However, I understand that a great night was had by one and all and that it raised a tidy sum in profit for the Club. Congratulations to all concerned.

F.D.H. King