It's a family affair for Rivermead regulars

Published 29 Jan 2010 12:00 0 Comments

A CHANCE encounter at Moorlands School, where Dave and Sylvia Coston were meeting their grandchildren, led to an invitation from Peter and Silvia Hancock to 'come and have a game of bowls at Rivermead.'

That casual meeting kick started a chain of events that, in just five years, has resulted in three generations of the Coston family playing at the club.

Married for 47 years, Dave and Sylvia soon became regulars at Rivermead bowls events.

It was during a baby sitting stint, when they took their granddaughters Lauren and Sophie to watch a match, that the girls began to pester them to let them have a go.

Two years on and 10-year-old Sophie and cousin Lauren Coles (11) are regulars at the Saturday morning coaching sessions and also play in club friendly matches, much to the delight and admiration of the opposition.

Not to be outdone Sophie's sister, six-year-old Rebecca insisted on joining in and is enjoying her first bowls lessons at the club.

"It's a wonderful sport and we have enjoyed it from the first time we stepped onto the green" said Dave, who is now in his second year as men's club captain.

"Our son Peter, an ardent sports fan, couldn't understand why we were so taken by bowls until he came down to the club to watch us.

"He quickly became hooked on the sport and now represents the club in Wessex League and county competitions. I just wish I had taken up the sport at his age."

John Lambden head coach of Rivermead IBC. said "It's so good to see the youngsters enjoying themselves.

"The girls are naturals and have started at an age where they could develop into top class bowlers."

Flying the flag for the boys is eight-year-old Jack Clark, now in his second year of coaching after being shown the ropes by grandparents Silvia and Peter Hancock.

Sophie and Rebecca's non bowling mother Jackie is also thrilled with the girls early passion for bowls. "They look forward so much to playing and are so enthusiastic" she said

"They never need reminding to get ready and I am just delighted they enjoy it so much."

Lauren, Sophie and Rebecca might reflect on the fact that World Ranked No.1 and four time World Singles Champion Alex Marshall began playing bowls with his granddad when he was 10 so watch this space.

Bowls coaching is held at the Rivermead Indoor Bowls club, Richfield Avenue on Saturday mornings (8.30am-10am) and Wednesday afternoons (4.30pm-6pm).

For more contact Richard West 07702 713288, email momentum west@btinternet.com.

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