Charities
Charity Activities & Fundraising
Charity has always been an important part of the Northamptonshire Short Mat Bowls Association, with members coming together through competitions and events to support a wide range of worthy causes. From long-standing events such as The Earl Spencer competition to more recent “Randoms” charity days, NSMBA has proudly raised funds, provided support and made a positive impact within the wider community. Below is a record of the charities supported and the contributions made over recent years.
2025
January 2025
A raffle was held following the retirement of two NSMBA umpires, with proceeds from their uniforms and additional donations going to Thames Valley Air Ambulance. This vital service continues to make major advancements in pre-hospital emergency care, including carrying blood for transfusions and advanced life-saving equipment.
NSMBA extends thanks to all members who contributed.
August 2025
A full house of 64 players attended the Charity Randoms competition at Bridgman Bowls Club on Sunday 17th August. The chosen charity was Sullivan’s Heroes, supporting Margot, a 5-year-old from Northampton living with a significant brain injury following a stroke.
Amount Raised: £408.00, helping to fund essential home adaptations to create a safe and accessible environment for Margot.
2024
July 2024
On 7th July, 42 players took part in a triples Randoms competition at the association’s home venue in Harrold. The competition was played across two groups, with a winning team in each.
Amount Raised: £195.00 for Cynthia Spencer Hospice in Northampton.
August 2024
On 18th August, a second Randoms competition was held with 46 players forming teams of four across eight mats.
Amount Raised: £210.00 for Alzheimer’s Society, raised through entry fees and a raffle.
These events also provide valuable opportunities for non-league players to experience competitive bowling in a friendly setting.
2023
June 2023
On 25th June, 11 teams of four (44 players) took part in a Randoms competition at Bridgman Bowls Club. The teams were drawn at random, creating a great atmosphere of sportsmanship and enjoyment.
Amount Raised: £148.50 for Marie Curie, supporting end-of-life care.
August 2023
Continuing the move from the Earl Spencer competition to Randoms events, a competition was held on 20th August with 53 members taking part. It was a fantastic day of bowling, raising funds through entry fees and a raffle.
Amount Raised: £235.00 for Age UK Northamptonshire, supporting elderly and disabled individuals.
2022
Two excellent charities were supported through NSMBA fundraising events:
Macmillan Nurses – Specialists in supporting cancer patients, helping them understand diagnoses, treatment options and providing care throughout their journey.
Amount Raised: £251.00
Crohn’s and Colitis UK – A charity supporting those living with inflammatory bowel disease, funding research and raising awareness.
Amount Raised: £130.00
In addition, on Thursday 27th October, the Over 60’s competition was held at Cosgrove Village Hall. Profits of £30 from equipment hire were donated to Willen Hospice, supporting the care they provide to patients and families.
Early Charity Events & Ongoing Support
In the past, the NSMBA held an annual competition known as The Earl Spencer, which raised a considerable amount of money for Age UK. In addition to financial support, equipment and assistance were also provided to help introduce short mat bowls to residents in care homes.
The association has also hosted a number of Fun Days, which originally raised money for the Air Ambulance, combining enjoyable bowling with important fundraising efforts.
More recently, NSMBA members have continued this tradition through “Randoms” Charity Days, where players are selected at random to form teams, creating a fun and inclusive environment for all involved.