A Century of Bowling - Royal County of Berkshire Bowling Association

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION
• Founded 1921
• An Associated Member
The Royal British Legion (RBL) was born following the carnage of the 1st World
War in 1921. Its purpose was to provide help to ex- service people in times
of need. During the years that followed, the RBL grew and in Berkshire we
currently have fifty Branches.
One of the social activities offered to our members is the opportunity to play bowls for
their own Branch, which many still do today, enjoying the well-known camaraderie along
the way.
RBL historical bowls records are now but a few. However, those that do exist suggest inter
Club games were taking place within the county and across borders, as far back as the
1950’s or before. Many of those bowling Clubs still survive, alas others do not.
One or two branches had, and still have their own bowling green.
Historically, however, most RBL members have played their bowls at one of the many
private Clubs or on a municipal green.
Since the mid 1950’s, or before, the RBL has run a Three Year Competition, which includes
the usual disciplines from singles to fours. Starting at County level, winners progress to Area
in year two, then to National in year three. The competitions are open to members of either
gender, with the last finals having taken place in 2009, at Suttons Club in Berkshire.
In the 21st Century, its good to be able to record some success stories, for in 2008 our branch
at Crowthorne, with its own bowling green, achieved affiliation status with the R.C.B.B.A.
Although friendly games between Branches are now few in numbers, the Three Year
Competition is very much alive, with Berkshire members representing their Branches at
all levels.
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