WHEN all the world around seemed to be tumbling into disarray, a group of enthusiasts started a club for the newly-laid bowling green in Bitton Park in 1939.

With its foundation firmly planted in 1940, it thrives still and boasts a splendid clubhouse, refurbished in 2012, reflecting the commitment of the 80-strong membership.

Teignmouth Bowls Open Championship is shared annually between their green and the one on The Den which opened 30 years earlier.

Bitton Club has the distinction of having nurtured one of the top bowlers of his time – Ken Boobyer, the gentle giant who sadly passed away last year. As a lad he honed his skills in the park enjoying the peaceful setting between air raids. By the age of 12 he was good enough to beat one of the best players and later joined the national elite group known as Barbarians – the finest bowlers in the country.

Ken kept playing until he was 86 and his spirit lingers on there for certain.

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