Club History

Polmaise Bowling Club was founded in 1911, deeply rooted in the rich mining heritage of Fallin. As the village grew alongside the coal industry, the club was established with a £286 donation from the Gothenburg Public House, a community hub that played a vital role in funding local initiatives. Early members—many of them miners—chose to build a bowling club over a swimming pond, a decision that shaped generations of bowlers.

Since its inception, Polmaise has been a cornerstone of the community, offering a place for camaraderie, competition, and sporting excellence. The club played its first official match on July 12, 1911, against Spittalmyre, and has since seen countless games, tournaments, and memorable moments on its green.

Over the years, Polmaise has produced champions at local, national, and even British levels, with players earning county, Scottish, and international recognition. The club has also been home to legendary figures whose achievements and personalities have left an enduring legacy. The club's history is rich with talent and tradition.

The social spirit of Polmaise is as strong as its sporting one. From bus trips filled with song to friendly rivalries, the club has always been a place of shared stories and laughter. Even during the challenges of COVID-19, Polmaise adapted, using the time to renovate its clubhouse and ensure its future for the next generation.

In recent years, the club has continued to thrive, winning multiple district and national titles, including victories in the Stirling County Top Five and Top Ten competitions.

Today, Polmaise Bowling Club remains committed to its heritage while embracing modern approaches to the sport and club management. Whether through competitive success, community engagement, or the friendships forged over decades, Polmaise continues to be a beacon of sporting excellence and camaraderie in Fallin.

Historic photo of Polmaise Bowling Club Early members of Polmaise Bowling Club Polmaise Bowling Club through the decades Historical tournament at Polmaise Bowling Club

Key Milestones

  • 1911

    Club Founded

    Polmaise Bowling Club was established with a £286 donation from the Gothenburg Public House, providing a recreational outlet for local miners.

  • 1911

    First Competitive Match

    The club played its first recorded match on July 12, 1911, against Spittalmyre.

  • 1920s-1930s

    Early Champions

    John Gwynne Snr. emerged as a dominant force, winning nine club championships, with his first title in 1913.

  • 1942

    Father vs. Son Championship Final

    John Gwynne Snr. faced his son in the club championship final, winning his last title.

  • 1988

    National Top Ten Champions

    Polmaise won the National Inter-County Top Ten competition, marking one of the club's greatest achievements.

  • 2003

    British Isles Triples Champions

    Club members John Johnstone, Derek Logie, and Jason Williams won the prestigious British Isles Triples title.

  • 2010

    Major Clubhouse Renovation

    The clubhouse underwent significant renovations, enhancing facilities for members and visitors.

  • 2011

    Centenary Celebrations

    The club celebrated 100 years of bowling excellence.

  • 2018

    First Stirling County Top Five Champions

    Polmaise became the first-ever winners of the Stirling County Top Five competition.

  • 2019

    Scottish Top Five Participation

    The club entered the Matt Purdie Trophy, representing District Nine in the national competition.

  • 2020

    COVID-19 Challenges and Clubhouse Refurbishment

    The club adapted to restrictions, implemented safety measures, and invested £25,000 into modernizing the clubhouse.

  • 2022

    Historic 12-Trophy Season

    Polmaise won an impressive 12 major titles, including the County Triples, Fours, and Senior Fours, during a standout season.

  • 2023

    Honoring a Legacy

    The club paid tribute to past president Peter Smith, who was known for his unwavering support and passion for the club.

  • 2024

    First Ever Sponsors' Day

    The club introduced a Sponsors' Day, inviting business supporters for a day of appreciation and celebration.

Our Mission

At Polmaise Bowling Club, we are dedicated to preserving the legacy of our founding members while fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. Established in 1911 by the miners of Fallin, our club has always been more than just a place to play bowls—it is a community built on camaraderie, sportsmanship, and tradition.

We strive to uphold the values of integrity, respect, and excellence, ensuring that every member, from aspiring juniors to seasoned champions, feels a sense of belonging. Through competition, friendship, and continuous development, we honor our past while shaping the future of the sport.

Our Vision

Polmaise Bowling Club envisions a thriving, forward-thinking community where the love of bowling continues to unite generations. We aim to sustain and grow our club by embracing modern approaches while respecting the traditions that have shaped us for over a century.

Our vision is to remain a pillar of excellence in Scottish bowls, producing champions at all levels and fostering an environment where talent flourishes. As we look ahead, we are committed to enhancing our facilities, engaging with our community, and ensuring that Polmaise Bowling Club stands strong for another hundred years and beyond.

Meet Our Committee

Our dedicated committee members work tirelessly to ensure the smooth running and continued success of Polmaise Bowling Club.

President

Alex Brown

President

Alex Brown is a dedicated and passionate leader of Polmaise Bowling Club. Having taken on the role of President after serving as Vice President, he is committed to fostering a welcoming and thriving club. Under his leadership, membership has grown, including an expanding ladies' section. He takes pride in the club's competitive successes and values the hard work of volunteers and sponsors. Alex's vision is to continue growing the club, strengthening its community, and ensuring it remains a fantastic place for all members.

Vice President

David Stewart

Vice President

Dave Stewart is the Vice President of Polmaise Bowling Club, dedicated to maintaining a welcoming and thriving environment for all members. A key figure in the club's recent renovations, he has played a vital role in improving facilities and fostering teamwork among members. In addition to his hands-on leadership and strong community spirit, Dave is also responsible for securing sponsorships for the club and has done an excellent job in securing its main sponsors. His commitment to both the club's traditions and its future growth ensures Polmaise remains a place for camaraderie, competition, and community for years to come.

Secretary

Peter Black

Secretary

Peter Black is a dedicated and long-standing member of Polmaise Bowling Club. As Secretary, he plays a vital role in the club's operations, ensuring its smooth running and continued success. A well-known and respected figure in the village of Fallin, Peter previously served as caretaker manager at The Alpha community centre for many years. His passion for the sport extends beyond administration—he has been instrumental in introducing junior bowlers to the game, fostering the next generation through school programs. Peter's commitment to the club and wider community makes him an invaluable part of Polmaise Bowling Club's legacy.

Treasurer

Robert Donaldson

Treasurer

Robert Donaldson is a key figure at Polmaise Bowling Club, serving as Treasurer and bringing years of experience to the committee. A past President of the club, he remains deeply involved in its ongoing success. As the licence holder of The Gothenburg pub next door—affectionately known as "The Goth"—he plays a vital role in securing sponsorship and supporting the club's financial stability. Robert's dedication to the club and its members ensures that Polmaise continues to thrive both on and off the green.