2 x BOULES PISTE

Longton VM

Facilities

Longton VM was established in 1922 on land off School Lane, and purchased through local voluntary contributions in memory of Longton people who died in World War 1 (and later in World War 2). Originally built as Longton VM Bowling Club, it forms part of the larger Longton Victory Memorial Recreation Ground. VM stands for Victory Memorial. In 1989, the original wooden clubhouse was destroyed by fire and a new brick clubhouse was built on the burnt-out site. Shortly afterwards, the new facility became known as Longton VM Sports & Social Club. A second bowling green was then built under the Government`s Manpower Services Commission Community Programme, and the two bowling greens now host 16 men and ladies teams in the local Preston, Leyland, Burscough and Southport leagues. In addition, 2 Winter Bowling Leagues are sponsored each Autumn, as well as 2 NW Open Doubles Competitions in July and September. As a means of encouraging young people to get involved in sport, the annual Spar Trophy is held each June between the two local junior schools This is an example of how the Club works with local businesses and the local community. In 2007, the Club launched a 10 year modernisation programme, as well as a new Business Plan aimed at attracting new groups of users, including more private booking and local community groups. In 2011 it was voted South Ribble Community Club of the Year in recognition of the wide range of events and activities that now take place here each week, some of which are organised by the Club itself, and others by other local community groups. It has extensive free parking and is fully licensed. The "free house" bar is well stocked with most mainstream products including Carlsberg, Estrella, San Miguel, Guinness, Brooklyn, and traditional "Hand Pulled" bitters which change each week. These are sourced from many suppliers including Moorhouses, Bowland Brewery, Bank Top Brewery and many more. The Annual Longton Beer Festival is held here each September. In 2017, the Club shortened its name to “Longton VM” alongside a new logo of three interlocking blocks to reflect its increasing position as a modern local community venue, but without detriment to the longstanding role as a local facility in memory of Longton people who gave their lives in WW1. The logo seeks to reflect this, with the three design blocks representing the three main groups of people who now use the facilities, namely members, community groups/local organisations and private party bookings. The three blocks also reflect the physical assets of the Clubhouse overlooking two bowling greens. The facility is open to both Members and non- Members, the only difference being that Members benefit from discounted prices for drinks and certain events and activities. We pride ourselves as having a friendly, welcoming and active spirit, so why not see for yourself by coming along either for a drink or to one of the many events or activities which are held here regularly.………and remember “We`re having a good time”, so why not join in too.