Friends of English Bowling
 
Bowlers Draw Society

Friends of English Bowling

Fund raising and supporting the game of flat green bowls in England.

Promoting bowls

Matches - arranging a small number of matches for Members to enjoy
The Bowlers Draw was introduced by the ‘Friends’ in 2008 to replace the Grand Draw previously run on behalf of the EBA and supported by the EWBA. Since its inception, the Grand Draw had raised over £650k for those Clubs selling the tickets; via the 50% donation scheme. However, it had been commercially operated (by Orchard Associates) on behalf of the EBA, and once all the operating and administration costs were paid, there was little profit for the benefit of the EBA. The Friends assumed responsibility for the Draw after the EBA had to bear a significant loss in 2007; sales falling and costs increasing.

The Grand Draw had been introduced to assist Clubs in raising funds for themselves, without them having to incur any costs. This remains the primary objective for the Bowlers Draw Society, and is considered by the ‘Friends’ as a key element of its support for grass-roots bowling.

In 2008, John Austin, Howard Pryse and Graham Clark formed the Bowlers Draw Society (BDS) from within the ‘Friends’ and operated the Draw on a totally voluntary basis – this principle is ongoing. As well as cutting-out all labour costs, significant savings were made in both printing and postage costs. Total costs in 2008 of only £4k represented a saving of £20k against the 2007 costs – a tremendous achievement.

By operating the Draw, on behalf of the Clubs, the ‘Friends/BDS’ is committed to a voluntary operation that keeps operating costs to an absolute minimum. This will enable the cost savings (Draw profit) to be utilized by the ‘Friends’ in their ongoing support of many of the activities of Bowls England.

We are determined to halt the decline in ticket sales and are always looking for more Clubs to support this Draw, and thereby enhance the finances of their own Club (via the 50% donation of their ticket sales).

For more information please contact any member of the BDS Organising Committee.
 

       
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