A DEDICATED team of volunteers brought more than just a cup of tea to help revive the fortunes of a village social hub.
Members of the bowling section Dobcross Band and Social Club have raised more than £14,000 at a monthly Coffee Shop in the club’s Platt Lane headquarters.
Val Hanson, who started the team, said: “A few years ago the club was struggling to survive.
“As bowlers, we realised if the club failed then we would also lose the bowling green. The club needed to be revitalised.
“It was an underused facility with only band members, bowlers and a few locals frequenting the place.
“We needed to generate money to improve the club and provide a service for the community which in turn would provide more footfall. We needed to improve the appeal of the club.”
After deliberating it was decided a Coffee Shop would be the answer and so the team trawled charity shops for crockery, cutlery, cafetieres and catering equipment.
“It took months to collect,” Val recalls, “but we got up and running.
“We provided a high standard of homemade cakes, scones, bacon butties, teas and freshly brewed coffee.
“We aimed to pamper the community and make the club a pleasant place to be.
“It has been a huge success and is a place where everyone, both young and old, enjoy themselves,” she said proudly.
Working with the club committee, the funds provided curtains, tables, tub chairs, bar stools and contributed to payment for bi-fold doors and much more.
The team’s latest acquisition is a stylish outside awning which provides cover for the bowlers.
“They previously had no cover from the elements and this is a very welcome addition for spectators and drinkers as well,” Val added.
“We would like to thank all our customers because without them we could never have achieved all this.”
Now, after five years, the team is planning to stand down after their May event – but the monthly Coffee mornings will continue headed by Alison Sowden, a member of the Dobcross Village Community Executive.