Welcome to the website of Harpenden Bowling Club.
For those new to the sport, please see the coaching, social and administration tabs.
Members:
With the hot weather, always have water available.
Friday roll-ups are continuing to be popular, starting at 2pm.
For those new to the sport, please see the coaching, social and administration tabs.
Members:
With the hot weather, always have water available.
Friday roll-ups are continuing to be popular, starting at 2pm.
Useful Information:
2026 CLUB NEWS
PLAYING NEWS, update 8 June 2026
Harpenden recorded a notable win in the second round of the London & Southern Counties Challenge Shield by defeating current National Top Club champions, Gerrards Cross. The rink of Trevor Tharby, Brendan Madden, Dave Gautier and John Osborn held a convincing 20-2 lead whilst the rink of Kevin Yiu, Brian Moores, Carol Glanfield and Neil Herrington were level at 10-10 before picking up a 6 to lead 16-10. Trailing by 24 shots, Gerrards Cross conceded with three ends to play. In the third round, Harpenden will play either Chesham or Waddesdon.
Harpenden recorded a notable win in the second round of the London & Southern Counties Challenge Shield by defeating current National Top Club champions, Gerrards Cross. The rink of Trevor Tharby, Brendan Madden, Dave Gautier and John Osborn held a convincing 20-2 lead whilst the rink of Kevin Yiu, Brian Moores, Carol Glanfield and Neil Herrington were level at 10-10 before picking up a 6 to lead 16-10. Trailing by 24 shots, Gerrards Cross conceded with three ends to play. In the third round, Harpenden will play either Chesham or Waddesdon.
PLAYING NEWS, update 3 June 2026
On Wednesday 3rd June we had a successful Men’s Club Friendly at home to Hatfield. It started out as a wet, drizzly afternoon which gradually turned warm and dry with Harpenden winning 3 rinks to 1 and overall 81/46.
A good friendly well played match and enjoyable afternoon.
On Wednesday 3rd June we had a successful Men’s Club Friendly at home to Hatfield. It started out as a wet, drizzly afternoon which gradually turned warm and dry with Harpenden winning 3 rinks to 1 and overall 81/46.
A good friendly well played match and enjoyable afternoon.
PLAYING NEWS, update 2 June 2026
Harpenden bowlers selected for the three prestigious Herts County Team Competitions. Congratulations and good luck to all!
Neil Herrington & John Osborn were selected for the ‘round robin’ Balcomb Trophy on Saturday against Essex, Kent & Herts. Herts were in contention all day and narrowly missed out on qualification for the National Finals at Leamington.
Neil Herrington and John Osborn have been selected for the Middleton Cup match on Saturday 6th June against Bucks at Gerrards Cross.
Jennie Redford has been selected for the Johns Trophy on Saturday 6th June against Bucks at Newport Pagnell, Anne-Marie Stuart-Reid has been selected as a travelling reserve.
Tony and Jennie Redford have been selected for the inaugural Herts over 60s (6 rink) knockout competition on Tuesday 16th June against Surrey at Welwyn & District.
Harpenden bowlers selected for the three prestigious Herts County Team Competitions. Congratulations and good luck to all!
Neil Herrington & John Osborn were selected for the ‘round robin’ Balcomb Trophy on Saturday against Essex, Kent & Herts. Herts were in contention all day and narrowly missed out on qualification for the National Finals at Leamington.
Neil Herrington and John Osborn have been selected for the Middleton Cup match on Saturday 6th June against Bucks at Gerrards Cross.
Jennie Redford has been selected for the Johns Trophy on Saturday 6th June against Bucks at Newport Pagnell, Anne-Marie Stuart-Reid has been selected as a travelling reserve.
Tony and Jennie Redford have been selected for the inaugural Herts over 60s (6 rink) knockout competition on Tuesday 16th June against Surrey at Welwyn & District.
PLAYING NEWS, update 1 June 2026
Top ten
In the Men's Team Ten match at Bishops Stortford last night we won 3 to 1.
It was nearly a clean sweep with the pairs holding game on the last end to win after being behind all game. But a last wood fire by the opposition skip somehow caused the Jack to go forward to get them the win. Well played!
Top ten
In the Men's Team Ten match at Bishops Stortford last night we won 3 to 1.
It was nearly a clean sweep with the pairs holding game on the last end to win after being behind all game. But a last wood fire by the opposition skip somehow caused the Jack to go forward to get them the win. Well played!
PLAYING NEWS, update 28 May 2026
And the heatwave continues: Comments and match report from Michael Bird, men’s captain.
Well the bank holiday gala did go ahead although the temperature on the green must have been in the low 30s.The playing was cut down to a token 6 ends which was more than enough. Well done to everyone who turned up. Congratulations to new member Gabrielle who won the spider.
Today on another hot and steamy afternoon 4 rinks of players made their way over to Hemel for a friendly Club match. Harpenden played well, winning on 3 rinks with the final score Harpenden 71 - Hemel 43. Well played everyone and thank you to the 2 people who had to play with 3 bowls.
And the heatwave continues: Comments and match report from Michael Bird, men’s captain.
Well the bank holiday gala did go ahead although the temperature on the green must have been in the low 30s.The playing was cut down to a token 6 ends which was more than enough. Well done to everyone who turned up. Congratulations to new member Gabrielle who won the spider.
Today on another hot and steamy afternoon 4 rinks of players made their way over to Hemel for a friendly Club match. Harpenden played well, winning on 3 rinks with the final score Harpenden 71 - Hemel 43. Well played everyone and thank you to the 2 people who had to play with 3 bowls.
PLAYING NEWS, update 26 May 2026
The 'Tony Allcock Trophy' provides mixed results in scorching heat.
Our two teams played the first round of the Tony Allcock Trophy in the excessive heat of last evening. The A team had an excellent result, winning at Garston, they will now play one of the Herts teams at home. The date, time and selected team will be posted once known. The B team ‘wilted’ in the heat and lost to a strong Herts team on their own Green.
The 'Tony Allcock Trophy' provides mixed results in scorching heat.
Our two teams played the first round of the Tony Allcock Trophy in the excessive heat of last evening. The A team had an excellent result, winning at Garston, they will now play one of the Herts teams at home. The date, time and selected team will be posted once known. The B team ‘wilted’ in the heat and lost to a strong Herts team on their own Green.
PLAYING NEWS, update 24 May 2026
From cold and rainy to scorching heat in five days
How can 5 days apart be so different? Last Tuesday, we played against Luton West End at home, the weather was cloudy, rainy and quite cold. However we played well met some lovely people and eventually ran out winners 81- 41.
Today on the other hand it was scorching, most probably over 30 degrees and was a day for moping the brow at Dunstable. Although we won on 3 rinks we unfortunately lost by one shot overall. Well played everyone.
From cold and rainy to scorching heat in five days
How can 5 days apart be so different? Last Tuesday, we played against Luton West End at home, the weather was cloudy, rainy and quite cold. However we played well met some lovely people and eventually ran out winners 81- 41.
Today on the other hand it was scorching, most probably over 30 degrees and was a day for moping the brow at Dunstable. Although we won on 3 rinks we unfortunately lost by one shot overall. Well played everyone.
PLAYING NEWS, update 24 May 2026
At the start of what was a scorching heatwave, the Friday 22 May roll up was again well attended with everybody chipping in to set up the green furniture. It has become a regular favourite with a large amount of our members with this week 38 attending.
At the start of what was a scorching heatwave, the Friday 22 May roll up was again well attended with everybody chipping in to set up the green furniture. It has become a regular favourite with a large amount of our members with this week 38 attending.
CLUB NEWS, update 22 May 2026
Mark Royal set up shop in our club house on 21 May. Mark has visited us over a number of years. It’s always a surprise at the range of bowls and related products he brings. It is a unique chance to try out a variety of bowls on grass before you choose and Buy. If not in Stock he can order for you on online there and then .Mark is a Regular player at the world indoor championship played at Potters Resort at Hopton–on Sea and can pass on his knowledge and professional advice of bowling when you visit.
ROLL UP NEWS, 21 May 2026
Three roll ups in and a hat trick of playing all six rinks on every Friday this year. 31 members attended our third roll up thoroughly enjoying the afternoon. With the new ‘class of 26’ gradually assembling nicely, hopefully we can see this continuing through the season. The first of the new players will be coming tomorrow so do give them a warm welcome as they start their bowling experience.
Three roll ups in and a hat trick of playing all six rinks on every Friday this year. 31 members attended our third roll up thoroughly enjoying the afternoon. With the new ‘class of 26’ gradually assembling nicely, hopefully we can see this continuing through the season. The first of the new players will be coming tomorrow so do give them a warm welcome as they start their bowling experience.
COACHING NEWS, 21 May 2026
Coaching is still going on through the month but plans are being made for the start of Wednesday evening roll ups in June. We have 3 rinks booked for the 3rd June so do come along if you can. We are working to develop a slightly different format for the Wednesday roll ups. It may not be ready for the first one but if you come you can hear what the plan is.
Coaching is still going on through the month but plans are being made for the start of Wednesday evening roll ups in June. We have 3 rinks booked for the 3rd June so do come along if you can. We are working to develop a slightly different format for the Wednesday roll ups. It may not be ready for the first one but if you come you can hear what the plan is.
PLAYING NEWS, 21 May 2026
Congratulations to players winning through the rounds in the District and County competitions. We have a Ladies 4s of Linda, Anne-Marie, Denise and Jenny Mc through to the last 16 of the County Fours. They play again Friday night 22 May against Baldock, so do come and support if you can.
Congratulations to players winning through the rounds in the District and County competitions. We have a Ladies 4s of Linda, Anne-Marie, Denise and Jenny Mc through to the last 16 of the County Fours. They play again Friday night 22 May against Baldock, so do come and support if you can.
PLAYING NEWS, 16 May 2026
On Saturday we played a Home Mixed Club Friendly against Berkhamsted. We had a successful afternoon winning comfortably on all four rinks. A big thank you to all our players. It was a dull but dry and cold day, rain falling after we completed the match.
In the coming week we have two more Mixed Friendly Club matches, one at home on Tuesday 19th May against Luton West End, the second match is next Sunday 24th May away to Dunstable, both matches commencing at 2 pm, supporters welcome.
Reminder
We are holding a Club Gala on Bank Holiday Monday 25th May commencing at 2pm. If you haven’t already put your name on the list to play at the Club House or emailed Alison Low or Mike Bird please do so as soon as possible please. We had a good turnout at the opening gala in April and with good weather forecast we hope we can do so again.
Looking forward to seeing another good turnout.
On Saturday we played a Home Mixed Club Friendly against Berkhamsted. We had a successful afternoon winning comfortably on all four rinks. A big thank you to all our players. It was a dull but dry and cold day, rain falling after we completed the match.
In the coming week we have two more Mixed Friendly Club matches, one at home on Tuesday 19th May against Luton West End, the second match is next Sunday 24th May away to Dunstable, both matches commencing at 2 pm, supporters welcome.
Reminder
We are holding a Club Gala on Bank Holiday Monday 25th May commencing at 2pm. If you haven’t already put your name on the list to play at the Club House or emailed Alison Low or Mike Bird please do so as soon as possible please. We had a good turnout at the opening gala in April and with good weather forecast we hope we can do so again.
Looking forward to seeing another good turnout.
PLAYING NEWS, 14 May 2026
On Thursday 23 April, six valiant and intrepid ladies made their way to Bushey for a friendly club match. It, should have been nine players but Bushey could only muster six. The afternoon was spent dodging heavy showers with hailstones followed by hot sunshine. Eventually the match was abandoned after 12 ends with Bushey narrowly beating Harpenden. A few more ends and the result may have been different. So a big thank you to the ladies who took part.
On Thursday 23 April, six valiant and intrepid ladies made their way to Bushey for a friendly club match. It, should have been nine players but Bushey could only muster six. The afternoon was spent dodging heavy showers with hailstones followed by hot sunshine. Eventually the match was abandoned after 12 ends with Bushey narrowly beating Harpenden. A few more ends and the result may have been different. So a big thank you to the ladies who took part.
PLAYING NEWS, update 13 May 2026
We completed two mixed friendly games in the last week.
On Saturday, 9 May we played away at Stotfold on quite a difficult green. We had very tight enjoyable matches, unfortunately losing overall 63-57. On Tuesday,12 May we played at home in a Rinks Match against Welwyn Garden City. It was played in a very relaxed friendly atmosphere. There were quite a few tight ends but we were able to win on all four rinks with an overall score of 80-53.
The friendly matches are all included under “Teams” on the rinks diary and open to everyone to enter. These are good matches for members who have joined in the last few years to gain invaluable experience at home and particularly away on different greens. We share lifts for away matches so transport isn’t an issue. Please take a look at the dates and tick and Save your names on the available to play lists.
We completed two mixed friendly games in the last week.
On Saturday, 9 May we played away at Stotfold on quite a difficult green. We had very tight enjoyable matches, unfortunately losing overall 63-57. On Tuesday,12 May we played at home in a Rinks Match against Welwyn Garden City. It was played in a very relaxed friendly atmosphere. There were quite a few tight ends but we were able to win on all four rinks with an overall score of 80-53.
The friendly matches are all included under “Teams” on the rinks diary and open to everyone to enter. These are good matches for members who have joined in the last few years to gain invaluable experience at home and particularly away on different greens. We share lifts for away matches so transport isn’t an issue. Please take a look at the dates and tick and Save your names on the available to play lists.
PLAYING NEWS, update 10 May 2026
Harpenden Bowling Club Captains get off to a winning start
The Club match against Kitcheners Bowling Club from Berkhampstead saw Harpenden emerge victorious on two of three rinks, winning by 50 shots to 44. This was the club’s first match of the season and the sun shone through, making for an enjoyable afternoon. Although Kitcheners were only able to field two triples teams, Harpenden kindly loaned them a team so the match could proceed. Played in a wonderful spirit, it was a very promising start to our programme of club matches this year.
Making their debut for the Club, Richard Mok and Dave Gautier quickly felt at home with Dave leading his rink with Denise and Jennine to a win over Jennie Gautier, Mike A and Trevor T playing for Kitcheners. Thanks to all of them for kindly agreeing to play for Kitcheners and making a game of it.
Congratulations to Mike Bird playing as Mens Captain for the first time and getting the Club off to a winning start.
Another strong team is fielded for our next Club Match away at Townsend next Wednesday with Alison Low taking her first match as Ladies Captain.
Newer players do get involved and nominate to play in these matches it is good fun and will definitely help you develop your game. To see the fixture list and nominate go to the rink diary on the website.
What a start to the season! Our second victory in the first week of playing. After our win at Home to Kitcheners, we took a strong team to Townsend for our first away game and came home with our second win. Just one shot gave us the victory as we came away winners on 3 of the 4 rinks.
So both Mike Bird and Alison Low, our Mens and Ladies Captains this year have wins under their belts already. Well done to them.
Remember these Club matches are where you learn the ropes of competitive play and develop your game. So sign up on the Teams Tab on Rink Diary get involved.
Harpenden Bowling Club Captains get off to a winning start
The Club match against Kitcheners Bowling Club from Berkhampstead saw Harpenden emerge victorious on two of three rinks, winning by 50 shots to 44. This was the club’s first match of the season and the sun shone through, making for an enjoyable afternoon. Although Kitcheners were only able to field two triples teams, Harpenden kindly loaned them a team so the match could proceed. Played in a wonderful spirit, it was a very promising start to our programme of club matches this year.
Making their debut for the Club, Richard Mok and Dave Gautier quickly felt at home with Dave leading his rink with Denise and Jennine to a win over Jennie Gautier, Mike A and Trevor T playing for Kitcheners. Thanks to all of them for kindly agreeing to play for Kitcheners and making a game of it.
Congratulations to Mike Bird playing as Mens Captain for the first time and getting the Club off to a winning start.
Another strong team is fielded for our next Club Match away at Townsend next Wednesday with Alison Low taking her first match as Ladies Captain.
Newer players do get involved and nominate to play in these matches it is good fun and will definitely help you develop your game. To see the fixture list and nominate go to the rink diary on the website.
What a start to the season! Our second victory in the first week of playing. After our win at Home to Kitcheners, we took a strong team to Townsend for our first away game and came home with our second win. Just one shot gave us the victory as we came away winners on 3 of the 4 rinks.
So both Mike Bird and Alison Low, our Mens and Ladies Captains this year have wins under their belts already. Well done to them.
Remember these Club matches are where you learn the ropes of competitive play and develop your game. So sign up on the Teams Tab on Rink Diary get involved.
Lift Off – Friday Roll Ups
Breaking the record for the number of players at this popular Friday afternoon session were 41 members enjoying the welcoming atmosphere and the sunshine for a game of bowls. It took a while to loosen up the lay off or indoor bowling but everyone logged good shots at some point in the afternoon.
Sterling job again by Mike Barnes who runs these sessions.
In due course the Wednesday roll ups will get under way but with coaching going on Wednesday evenings through May and the ever popular Fast Start League in progress , it will be June before these get really going. However, don’t let that stop you getting together on your various Whats App Groups and self organising your own group roll ups.
Lift Off – Competition and Squad News
National, County and District competitions are getting under way so the competitive bowlers are rapidly filling their diaries. Good luck and success to everyone in their competitions.
Competition for Squad places are keener than ever this year with players joining from other clubs strengthening some of the senior teams. We wish them well and look forward to their contribution to our Club. The first Squad matches are in the National 2 x 4s where we are fielding two teams for the first time following a change in the rules allowing clubs to play A and B Teams. These matches take place on May 14th at 6.00pm. The A Team is playing Herts A at home and the B team plays Herts B also at home. The second Squad match is the National Top Club K/O competition at Home against Welwyn and District BC on Sunday 24th May starting at 2.00pm.
This will be a lively matches with great bowling so do put it in your diaries and come to support our Teams led by the Squad Captains John Osborne, Joe Festa and Neil Herrington .
Breaking the record for the number of players at this popular Friday afternoon session were 41 members enjoying the welcoming atmosphere and the sunshine for a game of bowls. It took a while to loosen up the lay off or indoor bowling but everyone logged good shots at some point in the afternoon.
Sterling job again by Mike Barnes who runs these sessions.
In due course the Wednesday roll ups will get under way but with coaching going on Wednesday evenings through May and the ever popular Fast Start League in progress , it will be June before these get really going. However, don’t let that stop you getting together on your various Whats App Groups and self organising your own group roll ups.
Lift Off – Competition and Squad News
National, County and District competitions are getting under way so the competitive bowlers are rapidly filling their diaries. Good luck and success to everyone in their competitions.
Competition for Squad places are keener than ever this year with players joining from other clubs strengthening some of the senior teams. We wish them well and look forward to their contribution to our Club. The first Squad matches are in the National 2 x 4s where we are fielding two teams for the first time following a change in the rules allowing clubs to play A and B Teams. These matches take place on May 14th at 6.00pm. The A Team is playing Herts A at home and the B team plays Herts B also at home. The second Squad match is the National Top Club K/O competition at Home against Welwyn and District BC on Sunday 24th May starting at 2.00pm.
This will be a lively matches with great bowling so do put it in your diaries and come to support our Teams led by the Squad Captains John Osborne, Joe Festa and Neil Herrington .
PLAYING NEWS, update 6 May 2026
An enjoyable friendly match against Hemel Hempstead
Today 12 ladies from the club took part in the first ladies only club friendly match at home against Hemel ladies. It was a lovely afternoon although a little on the cold side with everyone wrapped up in an assortment of outerwear. It was a close game with 2 winning rinks but unfortunately Harpenden eventually lost 61 to 65. Thank you to everyone who took part.
An enjoyable friendly match against Hemel Hempstead
Today 12 ladies from the club took part in the first ladies only club friendly match at home against Hemel ladies. It was a lovely afternoon although a little on the cold side with everyone wrapped up in an assortment of outerwear. It was a close game with 2 winning rinks but unfortunately Harpenden eventually lost 61 to 65. Thank you to everyone who took part.
The pre-season working parties always mark a tangible start to the season activities with members getting involved to make sure the green, the club house and the gardens are ready for the launch of the Opening Gala.
The turnouts for both the Green and House work parties were excellent.
So a big thank you to everyone who contributed to that effort by cleaning, washing, scrubbing , painting, assembling, humping stuff around.
Now everyone can enjoy the start this week – Happy Bowling!
The turnouts for both the Green and House work parties were excellent.
So a big thank you to everyone who contributed to that effort by cleaning, washing, scrubbing , painting, assembling, humping stuff around.
Now everyone can enjoy the start this week – Happy Bowling!
It was a busy morning for Harpenden Bowling Club at the Seniors Fair held on 1 April at the Eric Morecambe Centre. The event is arranged by the Harpenden Trust and is always popular and well attended. It has helped the Club attract new members to the 'Come and Try Days' over the years which this year are Sun 26 and Tues 28 April.
Highlights from the 2025 Season:
PLAYING NEWS, update 16 September 2025
Two days of great bowling heralded the end of our 2025 outdoor Club activities.
Two days of great bowling heralded the end of our 2025 outdoor Club activities.
PLAYING NEWS, update 14 September 2025
One of numerous good news stories to mark a great end to our season as its six wins out of seven by Harpenden to secure the 2025 Men’s St Albans and District Bowls Association (SADBA) Club Rink League competition.
One of numerous good news stories to mark a great end to our season as its six wins out of seven by Harpenden to secure the 2025 Men’s St Albans and District Bowls Association (SADBA) Club Rink League competition.
PLAYING NEWS, update 7 September 2025
A great end to the outdoor District season! Harpenden make it two wins out of two at the St Albans and District Bowls Association (SADBA) men’s finals
A great end to the outdoor District season! Harpenden make it two wins out of two at the St Albans and District Bowls Association (SADBA) men’s finals
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PLAYING NEWS, update 01 September 2025
Harpenden Victorious at South Area County League Finals.
Harpenden Victorious at South Area County League Finals.
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PLAYING NEWS, update 28 August 2025
A dazzling warm Bank Holiday Gala raised funds for the Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care charity: over £750 was raised towards their outstanding work.
A dazzling warm Bank Holiday Gala raised funds for the Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care charity: over £750 was raised towards their outstanding work.
PLAYING NEWS, update 18 August 2025
The District League Competition is always a much coveted and highly prized trophy. A highlight for Harpenden was the performance of three members who only joined the club within the last two years. They were: Roy Smith, Andrew Wallace and Neil Cox. The photo below shows Roy Smith in action.
The District League Competition is always a much coveted and highly prized trophy. A highlight for Harpenden was the performance of three members who only joined the club within the last two years. They were: Roy Smith, Andrew Wallace and Neil Cox. The photo below shows Roy Smith in action.
Harpenden’s Nick Muir is Hertfordshire Men's Four Bowl Singles Champion and completes his set of titles. Nick also featured in the Men's Four Championship final along with Trevor Tharby, Joe Festa and John Osborn. Harpenden's four finished runners up after losing 15-7 to Garston.
PLAYING NEWS, update 24 July 2025
Members enjoy the roll ups. An exceptional and popular season for roll ups.
With sometimes over 30 members coming for each session, it has been a particular successful season for the weekly roll ups that take place on Friday afternoons at 2.00. (There is normally a roll up at 6.00 mid-week but please check the Rink Diary before coming). The casual format of turning up on the day suits members of all abilities and is especially popular with newer members who started this year. Playing for the pure enjoyment of playing and chatting to other members is an enjoyable start to the weekend. A half time break for the all-important cup of tea or coffee and biscuit is welcome with the option of finishing then or continuing to play afterwards.
Members enjoy the roll ups. An exceptional and popular season for roll ups.
With sometimes over 30 members coming for each session, it has been a particular successful season for the weekly roll ups that take place on Friday afternoons at 2.00. (There is normally a roll up at 6.00 mid-week but please check the Rink Diary before coming). The casual format of turning up on the day suits members of all abilities and is especially popular with newer members who started this year. Playing for the pure enjoyment of playing and chatting to other members is an enjoyable start to the weekend. A half time break for the all-important cup of tea or coffee and biscuit is welcome with the option of finishing then or continuing to play afterwards.
PLAYING NEWS, update 30 June 2025
A unique bowls encounter brings three teams for a historic event.
The Centenary Cup established in 2008 is a very unique event that brings together three bowls clubs who were all formed in 1908, Harpenden, Dunstable and Tring.
Harpenden (right) and Dunstable (left) presenting the Centenary Cup to Tring Bowls Club.
A unique bowls encounter brings three teams for a historic event.
The Centenary Cup established in 2008 is a very unique event that brings together three bowls clubs who were all formed in 1908, Harpenden, Dunstable and Tring.
Harpenden (right) and Dunstable (left) presenting the Centenary Cup to Tring Bowls Club.
The Club now has a presence on Facebook, X (formerlyTwitter) and Instagram - see links at bottom of page
