IT was an exciting day for Southampton bowling fans as they were treated to the grand opening of the new 26-lane Excel bowling alley in Bitterne Road, Bitterne.
MacDonald Hobley of BBC TV marked the official opening of the bowling alley on March 4, 1965, by bowling the traditional Golden Bowl that had been used 71 times prior in other ceremonies up and down the British Isles.
A lavish champagne buffet supper had been prepared for the expected guests, but unfortunately, the inclement weather on the south coast deterred many from making the journey.
The guests were treated to an extra level of entertainment as the Royal Horse Guard arrived with their trumpets sounding off in magnificent fanfare. This was sure to have either entranced the attendees– or put them off their bowl completely.
In the week leading up to the official opening ceremony, 7,500 people had already tried out the bowl.
The centre cost £250,000 and was built into the shopping centre of Bitterne Road, at the corner of Maytree Road. It used the cutting-edge of entertainment technology.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel