AUCHINLECK Indoor Bowling Club has received vital funding to help preserve the building for future generations.
The club, which has operated from its current site since 1980, was awarded £32,420 from the UK Government’s Pride in Place fund to support essential upgrades.
The investment has enabled a complete electrical rewiring of the building, along with the installation of new heating systems and radiators.
A modern digital display board will also replace the club’s ageing scoreboards.
Lillian Jones, MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun, welcomed the improvements the funding will bring, as she presented the committee with a cheque.
She said: "What that money is going to do is upgrade the heating system and also allow them to install a fantastic state-of-the-art media board to replace their old scoreboard.
"It’s going to bring the club up into the 21st century and it’s going to see the club play on for generations to come."
The club, which rents its building and land from East Ayrshire Council, has become the main indoor bowling facility in Ayrshire following the closure of Ayr Bowling Club.
Ayr was the oldest surviving bowling club in the UK until its site was sold to a gym chain, with many former members having since joined Auchinleck.
It also serves as a community hub, with a bar and café that welcomes members and visitors alike, including those attending events at nearby Auchinleck Talbot FC.
The venue regularly hosts community gatherings, funeral teas, and other functions.
Margaret, who has been involved with the club for 46 years, said the improvements mean a great deal to everyone who uses the facility.
"It’s my pride and joy," she said.
"I look after the place as if it was my own home, because we’re here and we’re trying to make the facility the best we possibly can with the funding we have available.
"Everything you see in Auchinleck just now has just been hard work, but we’re trying to keep the facility to be one of the best in Scotland."
The club’s committee said they are "delighted" with the UK Government investment, which was secured with the support of Ms Jones and East Ayrshire Council.
The club welcomes new members of all experience levels and encourages anyone interested in trying bowls to get in touch.
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