Former president opens new season at Fraser Park Bowling Club in Inverness
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FORMER club president Alan Mair was given the honour of opening the outdoor season at Fraser Park Bowling Club.
The 91-year-old was invited to roll the first bowl down the green at the Inverness club as the sport recovers from the impact of the pandemic.
Mair, who is diagnosed with dementia, lost his wife Margaret in December and the pair were active members of the bowling club.
Mair acted as president of Fraser Park Bowling Club for six years.
But he has been an active member for over 30 years.
He was watched by family and friends rolling the first bowl of the summer season on Saturday.
Speaking about being invited to officially open the season, Mair says it was a real privilege to be asked by a club that is close to his heart.
“It was a real honour being asked to roll the first bowl of the season,” he said.
“I enjoyed meeting all the friends I have made at the club and being part of the team again.
“I have enjoyed the friendship that comes with playing bowls in pairs and fours as well as singles.
“I played a few bowls and then I was more interested in getting my tea afterwards.”
Originally from Aberdeen, Mair moved to Inverness for work reasons and settled down in the city.
During his bowls career, Mair earned a reputation as a talented player, where he won a number of competitions on the green.
While not as active as he used to be on the bowling green, he says he is planning to play this summer and have leisurely games with friends when he can.
He says bowls has been a big part of his life and a sport he enjoys playing.
“I will take a short break from bowls at the moment,” he said.
“ But next month, I will see if I feel up to it and get back playing.
“It is a great sport to be involved in.”
