Thornaby Indoor Bowling Club (TIBC) have launched a new competition into their Indoor Bowls calendar. The Bill Peirson Shield annual pairs tournament has been established to honour the exceptional contributions of long-standing club member and 2026 Club President, Bill Peirson.

Bill started his bowling journey in 1975 at Eston Bowling Club on Trunk Road, Eston, after first trying crown green bowling in 1974 during visits to Hawkshead. He has played indoor and outdoor bowls for Yorkshire County, winning numerous competitions, and served multiple leadership roles at Thornaby TIBC. Now aged 81+, Bill remains an active bowler, demonstrating the lifelong benefits of the sport.

The competition captured the imagination of the club members with a full 16 teams of pairs producing some fantastic matches played in a brilliant atmosphere with the man of the day Bill Pierson presenting the prizes to the winning team which consisted of Jean Huggins and John Dickinson.

Bill Peirson’s legacy is woven into the history and success of Thornaby Indoor Bowling Club. Across more than five decades, Bill has contributed as a player, leader, mentor, and ambassador for the sport. His commitment to both flat green and crown green disciplines, combined with his competitive success for Yorkshire County, has inspired generations of bowlers.

Chris Harrington, Tees Active General Manager said “Tees Active is delighted to support this event. Bill as s president, secretary, and long-serving committee member has helped guide the club through key developments, including the transition under Tees Active’s management. His dedication to community, sportsmanship, and the growth of bowls continues to shape the culture of the club. The creation of the annual Bill Peirson Shield ensures that his contributions will be celebrated for years to come.”