URGENT UPDATE: The Whitchurch-based bowling association is gearing up for an exhilarating start to the 2026 season, with two major British Parks competitions set to take place before the end of May. The season kicks off with the highly anticipated Senior Merits already held, but the excitement is far from over.
Mark your calendars—on March 10, 2026, the association will hold its Annual General Meeting (AGM), with the venue yet to be confirmed. Following this, both men’s and ladies’ Merits are scheduled for Good Friday, April 3, starting in the morning to avoid conflicts with the Shropshire Premier League’s opening night.
According to an association spokesperson, “The Merits are open to both male and female bowlers who must be members of a club affiliated with North Shropshire Parks.” The entry fee is set at £10, with total prize money of £640. Notably, the last four participants will automatically qualify for the British Parks Men’s Merit finals on August 30, 2026, in North Staffordshire.
Additionally, the final participants in the ladies’ category will qualify for the British Parks Ladies Merit finals on May 31, 2026, which will be hosted in North Shropshire.
But that’s not all—North Shropshire will also host the British Parks Junior 10-a-side Championship on April 20, 2026, adding further excitement to the season.
In a significant development for local veterans, the Mid Shropshire Senior Citizens League is experiencing a surge in interest, potentially expanding to five full divisions with 12 sides each. Secretary John Palmer confirmed that Charlton, a Hadley-based club, is considering entering a second team. This decision will be finalized at their AGM on February 12, 2026, at the Sinclair club in Telford at 1:30 PM.
As preparations intensify, the league is also looking to amend eligibility rules for the later stages of the Charity Shield, reflecting the growing enthusiasm in the community.
Stay tuned as the Whitchurch Bowling Association and local leagues prepare for a thrilling season filled with competition and camaraderie. This is a pivotal moment for the bowling community, and the stakes have never been higher!
