Welcome to Yorkshire
News • July 16th, 2026
|A vibrant community spirit is alive and well at Holmfield Park Bowling Club in Thornes Park, Wakefield. This beloved local club has been a cornerstone for many older residents, helping them remain active, social, and connected for generations. Recently, the club has received a generous boost from a nearby home care provider, Visiting Angels Leeds & Wakefield, further enhancing its role in the community.
Support From Visiting Angels
Holmfield Park Bowling Club, which boasts around 350 members, has been making a significant impact on the lives of many older people in the area. The support from Visiting Angels includes donations of refreshments, bowling equipment, branded clothing, and improvements to the outdoor area where members gather for matches and social events.
Julia Goss, Head of Growth & Learning at Visiting Angels, shared her thoughts on the partnership:
“There’s something really special about places like this because they bring people together so naturally. It’s not only about playing bowls – it’s the conversations, the friendships and having a reason to get out of the house. Those things can make such a difference to people’s wellbeing and independence as they get older.”
A Community Hub
At Holmfield Park, bowling is just one aspect of what the club offers. It has become a vital hub for social interaction, routine, and friendship.
Keith Hawes, a supporter of the club, emphasised this point:
“It’s not just about bowls. For a lot of people, this is their community. It keeps people active, gives them something to look forward to and helps people stay connected.”
The club hosts regular matches and informal drop-in sessions throughout the outdoor season, welcoming anyone interested in trying their hand at bowling. Members also continue to play indoors during winter, ensuring that friendships and routines remain intact all year round.
The Importance of Volunteers
Like many grassroots community organisations, Holmfield Park Bowling Club relies heavily on volunteers and the support of its members. This collective effort helps maintain facilities and ensures that new players feel welcome. The club’s success is a testament to the dedication of those involved, who work tirelessly to foster a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Upcoming Open Day
Looking ahead, Holmfield Park Bowling Club is excited to announce an open day scheduled for Sunday, 9th August. This event will include the inaugural “Visiting Angels Cup” competition, aimed at encouraging even more local residents to get involved. Visitors are invited to drop in from 12-4pm to play, learn, and enjoy refreshments while experiencing what the club has to offer.
Julia Goss expressed enthusiasm for the event:
“Supporting Holmfield Park Bowling Club is a natural extension of our commitment to improving people’s lives. We want to see more people come down, have a go, and see what it’s all about.”
Community Impact
The work being done at Holmfield Park Bowling Club highlights the importance of local community initiatives in promoting health and wellbeing, especially for older adults. By providing a space for social interaction and physical activity, the club not only enhances the quality of life for its members but also strengthens the fabric of the community as a whole.
As the club prepares for its open day, it serves as a reminder of how vital such organisations are in fostering connection and camaraderie among residents. With the support of local businesses like Visiting Angels, Holmfield Park Bowling Club can continue to thrive, ensuring that everyone has a place to belong.
For anyone interested in learning more about the club or the upcoming event, details can be found on the Visiting Angels website or by reaching out directly to the club. The dedication of Holmfield Park Bowling Club and its supporters exemplifies the spirit of community that makes Wakefield such a special place.
