Leicester Visually Impaired Bowls Club Honors Retiring Volunteer George Ince After Two Decades of Service
Remarkable dedication was at the heart of the Leicester Visually Impaired Bowls Club's recent Annual General Meeting, where members gathered to celebrate the retirement of long-serving volunteer George Ince. After more than twenty years of tireless support, George is stepping down from his roles as a volunteer driver and team skip, leaving behind a profound legacy of confidence and community spirit.
A Carousel of Opportunity for Players
A much-loved and respected figure, George has been described as a 'carousel of opportunity' for both new and established players. His dry humour, deep knowledge of the sport, and unwavering dedication have helped countless bowlers overcome barriers to enjoy a fun-filled, competitive game. The club noted that George enabled many players to improve and gain in confidence and enjoyment of the sport, and his skill and dedication on the green will be sorely missed.
How the Club Operates as a Roving Community
The Leicester Visually Impaired Bowls Club is an established charity that proves sport is for everyone, regardless of age or the degree of visual impairment. However, as the club does not own its own ground or clubhouse, it operates as a vibrant, roving community, playing fixtures at various host clubs throughout Leicestershire that kindly offer their greens for friendly matches. Since many players are unable to drive themselves, volunteers like George serve as the literal engine of the organization.
By providing essential transport and on-green assistance, these dedicated helpers ensure that every member can stay active and connected to the sport they love. This model relies heavily on the generosity of volunteers to maintain its vital services.
Call for New Volunteers to Step Up
With George stepping into a well-earned retirement, the club is now actively looking for new volunteers to help maintain this essential service. Being a volunteer driver is about more than just transport; it's about providing the 'eyes on the green' that allow players to participate fully in matches and social activities.
Joining the team is straightforward because no previous experience is required; the club is happy to show you the ropes and teach you everything you need to know about the game. Volunteers also enjoy total flexibility, with the opportunity to assist as and when it fits their existing schedule, ensuring that even a small amount of time makes a big difference.
Ultimately, it is a role with a rewarding impact, as every volunteer helps local people stay active, social, and deeply connected to their community. If you have a car and a few hours to spare, or if you are someone with a visual impairment who would like to try the sport, the club would love to hear from you.
The Leicester Visually Impaired Bowls Club continues to be a beacon of inclusivity and support, and they invite the community to learn more about their fixtures and how to support the next twenty years of local sport.
