Northamptonshire Short Mat Bowls Association
Northamptonshire Short Mat Bowls Association brings together players from across the county to enjoy competitive and social short mat bowls in a friendly, welcoming environment. Whether you’re an experienced player or completely new to the sport, we provide opportunities to play, improve and get involved throughout the season. From league fixtures and county competitions to community events, there’s always something happening at NSMBA. Join us and discover a sport that’s accessible, enjoyable and open to all.
Upcoming Events
Stay up to date with upcoming fixtures, competitions and events across the Northamptonshire Short Mat Bowls Association. From league matches to special events, there’s always something happening throughout the season. Check below for the latest dates and make sure you don’t miss out.
County Matches
Keep up to date with the latest county league fixtures, results and standings from across Northamptonshire Short Mat Bowls Association. Follow your team’s progress throughout the season and stay informed on upcoming matches and recent results. Check below for all the latest league updates.
League Matches
Follow the latest league action across the Northamptonshire Short Mat Bowls Association, with up-to-date fixtures, results and standings. Stay informed on how teams are performing throughout the season and keep track of upcoming matches. Everything you need to follow the league is right here.
Quick Links & Resources
Explore key areas of the Northamptonshire Short Mat Bowls Association, from match reviews and event photos to official rules and club information. Whether you’re looking to catch up on recent action or find useful resources, everything you need is just a click away. Use the links below to navigate through some of the most important sections of the site.
About NSMBA
- The NSMBA mission is to provide excellent bowling and facilities for the benefit of all members and our guests
- We aim to attract new clubs and players by promoting the Northamptonshire Short Mat Bowls Association, where friendship and socialising is fostered
- We will try and encourage more members to attend and participate in tournaments and friendly matches
- We aim to be cheerful, welcoming and friendly at all times
- Recognising and maintaining the integrity and respect of the sport
- Ensuring that all bowlers are given the opportunity to reach their full potential
- We value tradition but recognise that we also need to embrace change in order to progress
Find Us
We are easily found, approximately nine miles north west of Bedford in the beautiful village of Harrold.
Bridgman’s Bowling Club
1 Eagle Way
Harrold
Bedfordshire
MK43 7EW
Venue History
Bridgman Bowling Club was created by the late Bert Bridgman in 1985 when he constructed a 4-rink outdoor bowling green on some vacant land on his Eagle Works factory site. By 1988 this had been extended to incorporate an indoor bowling arena. The project was funded by Bert Bridgman with work supported by members and factory workers.
By the time Bert died in 1994 the club had become well-established in the village and beyond. However, when Bridgman Doors went into receivership in 1998, there was a real threat that the bowls club would, with the factory site, be sold off for property development. Members and the local community then sprang into action and with the help of grants and loans from Sport England Lottery Fund, the Harpur Trust and the County Bowling Association raised the sum of £130,000 to purchase the site of the club from the receivers.
Harrold and the community of North Bedfordshire had acquired a fine sporting facility and a well equipped social centre. It still proudly bears the name of its founder, Bert Bridgman.