New deal protects future of historic bowling club at York Racecourse

A historic bowling club located at York Racecourse has agreed a new lease to protect its future.

Dringhouses Bowling Club signed a 10-year deal with the racecourse to formalise a decades-old agreement on its tenancy.

Members of Dringhouses play on a quadrangle located between the horse boxes.

The club’s first recorded victory was in 1935 against a York City Council team – six years after an official opening ceremony attended by Noel Terry, former chairman of York-based confectionery business Terry’s.

The idea to open a bowling club between the stables was conceived by Colonel Wilkinson CBE, clerk of the course to the York Race Committee.

Chris Ward, York Racecourse’s head of finance, said: “We are proud to have such a historic bowling club within the racecourse grounds and have a long-standing agreement for the club to use the land for a nominal rent.

“We needed to put a more formal agreement in place that documents both parties’ obligations to one another.”

He added: “We look forward to continuing our partnership as the club approaches its centenary.”

Dringhouses Bowling Club secretary Raymond Baggaley commented “The club enjoys an unusual but charming location and has grown to include a number of men’s, women’s and mixed teams.

“The green is in use most days between May and August and we’re always on the lookout for new members to enjoy our facilities.”

He continued: “The new lease is important as it protects our future. We had an informal arrangement for several decades but it is important to have a robust contract that documents rules and responsibilities.”

Dringhouses had support on the new agreement from York firm Langleys Solicitors.

Amy Taylor, a solicitor in Langleys’ commercial property team, said: “Dringhouses Bowling Club has a fascinating history and a truly unique location amid the stables.

“We were pleased to help the Racecourse draw up a new lease agreement that ensures bowling club members can continue to enjoy the facilities long into the future.”