S7 Bowls Battle 2025: community, competition and charity in full swing

What started as a wet and grey morning soon turned into a sun-soaked celebration of community, camaraderie and competition, as S7 Bowls Battle 2025 brought together friends, colleagues and supporters for another memorable event at Portslade Bowls Club.

Now a highlight of the calendar for many, the Bowls Battle isn’t just about sport; it’s about bringing people together, raising money for meaningful causes and celebrating the values that define Search Seven. And this year, it delivered on all fronts.

Despite an uncertain start, with a rain-soaked warm-up that had some reaching for umbrellas rather than bowls, the skies cleared just in time for play to begin. With the sun shining and the greens drying out, the mood lifted instantly and the competition got underway. But beyond the competition, what really stood out was the fantastic atmosphere and the incredible community spirit that filled the air.

From the very beginning, the support and hospitality shown by Portslade Bowls Club was second to none. The members and volunteers went above and beyond once again, making sure everyone was looked after with warmth, generosity and good humour throughout the day. From preparing the green to serving food and drinks, they played a huge role in creating a welcoming and enjoyable environment. A special mention must go to one very special volunteer — my own mum, the club captain, who helped out tirelessly behind the scenes!

A competitive edge and some impressive ‘Bowls Tekkers’

Of course, it wouldn’t be a Bowls Battle without a healthy dose of competition. This year saw some serious skills on display, what I like to call ‘bowls tekkers’ as teams went head-to-head across the rinks with impressive focus and flair.

Leading the business team to victory was none other than Penina Shepherd, who successfully steered her side to the top and claimed the trophy. Her win also meant Matt Smith, the agency team skipper, was denied a hat-trick of consecutive victories, much to the delight of the business contingent!

Whether competing or cheering from the sidelines, everyone brought their energy, smiles, and sportsmanship to the event, and the result was an afternoon full of laughter, friendly rivalry and brilliant memories.

Gratitude to our sponsors and supporters

Events like these simply wouldn’t be possible without the backing of our incredible sponsors. A massive thank you goes to our headline sponsors Webtrends Optimize and Acumen Law, whose support helped make the day such a success.

We’re also incredibly grateful to our rink sponsors:

• me&you

• Servo Private Wealth

• Nostos Hove

• Rivervale

Their generosity helped us reach new fundraising heights while ensuring every detail of the event, from signage to refreshments, was pitch-perfect.

Raising funds and making a difference

While the day was packed with fun, food and friendly competition, it also had a much deeper purpose: raising money for charity. This year’s Bowls Battle was the third charity event hosted by Search Seven in 2025, and we’re proud to say it raised just under £3,000.

These funds will be split between Portslade Bowls Club, to help maintain and develop their facilities, and our chosen #share177 charities, who continue to make a powerful difference in the lives of those who need it most.

With this latest success, we’re edging ever closer to our long-term goal of raising £177,000 for good causes by the end of 2026 to mark our 15th birthday. An ambitious target that’s driven by the belief that business can and should be a force for good.

Looking ahead: more S7 events to come

If the Bowls Battle left you inspired to get involved, you’ll be pleased to hear there’s more on the way! Our upcoming events are set to continue the fun, with two big dates already on the horizon:

Rock at the Races

Monday 21st July 2025

A VIP day at Royal Windsor Racecourse, complete with a Queen tribute band to keep the energy going after the final race.

Tickets here

The Search Seven Saloon

Thursday 2nd October 2025

Our BIG charity event of the year, dust off your denim and saddle up for what’s all set to be a rootin’ tootin’ night of fun and fundraising.

Tickets here

Whether you’re a regular or it’ll be your first time, we’d love to welcome you to these events. They’re the perfect way to connect, give back, and have a great time while doing good.

Please do sign up for our newsletter (via our website) to get the latest search seven news and event updates, and we look forward to seeing you at a Search Seven event soon!

https://www.searchseven.co.uk/

In Giving Back, You Move Forwards