A brand-new pétanque terrain at Victoria Park, Bridgwater, will be officially opened on Thursday 14 May, marking an exciting milestone for local players and the wider community.
Pétanque, a sport that originated in Bridgwater’s French twin town of La Ciotat in 1907, has grown in popularity worldwide and is now enjoyed by players of all ages and abilities.
The opening ceremony will take place at 11.30am, led by the Deputy Mayor of Bridgwater, Councillor Leigh Redman. Celebrations will begin earlier in the day, with a friendly tournament starting at 10.30am featuring four clubs from across the West Country.
The new facility provides a dedicated space for Bridgwater Pétanque Club (BPC), which has worked for many years to establish a permanent home for the sport in the town.
Michael Wheatley, Chairman of Bridgwater Pétanque Club said,
“We are pleased that we have finally got a facility to play pétanque on, as we have been striving for many years to achieve this. We are grateful to the Somerset Community Foundation for funding, Bridgwater Town Council for providing land and labour and to Bridgwater Pétanque Club for fundraising.
“BPC plays on Sunday mornings and Thursday afternoons and the facility is open to the general public for use at other times. Bridgwater is now able to play in the regional pétanque league and new members are welcome. We have a website www.bridgwaterpetanque.club.”
Cllr Tim Mander, Chair of Bridgwater Town Council’s Amenities Committee, welcomed the new addition to Victoria Park saying,
“This new pétanque terrain is a fantastic addition to Victoria Park, further enhancing the wide range of facilities already available and providing even more opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy the space. It is also a great example of partnership working within the community.
“The terrain offers a high-quality, accessible area for both established players and those looking to try something new, while also strengthening Bridgwater’s connection to its French twin town. We are delighted to support a facility that encourages outdoor activity and social interaction.”
Residents and visitors are warmly invited to attend the opening event and see the new facility in action.
Looking ahead, the terrain will also host the annual Bridgwater Twinning Societies Pétanque Tournament on 5 June, further celebrating the town’s international links
