North Park Bowls Club is facing closure as membership dwindles, leaving the club unable to meet league requirements.
A final decision must be made before the end of April and could see the club’s doors shut for good.
Without it, Darlington will lose a piece of its sporting heritage.
Chairman Terry Beer, 83, from Darlington, has led the club since taking it over from the council in 2011 and has dedicated more than a decade to securing its future.
When the council pulled out due to maintenance costs, Terry and his association stepped in, transforming the site with extensive upgrades.
Concrete backboards were installed to secure the green, and countless other improvements have been made but despite these efforts, the club is now struggling to survive.
In an ideal world the club said it would love to welcome a brand new generation to the bowling green.
Terry, who used to be a coach, said: “We offer all the equipment and great grounds.
“If anyone wanted to join we would be happy to show them the ropes and even train them.
“This has been an institution in Darlington for decades it would be a shame for it to go now.”
Bowls is currently in its off season with it set to start back up at the end of April, by then Terry will have to make the decision whether they stay open or shut forever.
The club need no less than ten new bowlers to join and then they would be able to carry on the legacy for years to come.
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Thirteen years ago when Terry joined the team he said they lacked equipment and he has added facilities, equipment and provided training.
He said: “With the amount of money, time and effort we have all put into the club I would be gutted to have to let it go.”
If you would like to get involved with the club contact Terry on 07743321888.
