The fesitval site at the Pump Room Gardens has been enjoyed by thousands during the eleven-day visit of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Not only did the Lawn Bowls and Para Lawn Bowls competitions which took place at Victoria Park see 25 nations competing and the Games’ oldest gold medal winner, but also excellent attendances, bringing new audiences and enthusiasts to this most accessible of sports.  

Jill Heseltine, Venue General Manager for Birmingham 2022, commented:  

“The Lawn Bowls and Para Lawn Bowls event was a fantastic nine days of competition showcasing Royal Leamington Spa and the bowls club in all its glory. The greens looked amazing and true to their name they were exceptionally green despite being bathed in sunshine for the last three weeks or more.   

“The athletes were cheered on by thousands of knowledgeable spectators, who came to enjoy the close fought competition and the fantastic atmosphere of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. 

“Thank you to the people of Royal Leamington Spa and Warwick for making us and the teams feel so welcome.” 

As well as the bowls competitions the district was a proud host of the men’s and women’s Cycling Road Races on Sunday 7 August, which saw an estimated 30,000 spectators from around the globe lining the streets of Warwick, providing a carnival atmosphere throughout the day.  

For those who couldn’t get tickets or were unable to travel to the Birmingham venues, the Festival Sites in the Pump Room Gardens and Warwick Market Square organised by Warwick District and Warwickshire County Council were a big hit with local people, with families enjoying a range of activities and thousands gathering to watch the live sporting action on the big screen including Whitnash boxer Lewis Williams’ gold medal winning fight.  

The Leader of Warwick District Council, Andrew Day commented: 

“The faces of our visitors beaming as they joined the events that we have hosted across Warwick District, reflect not only the years of preparation, but the warm welcome given by hundreds of wonderful local volunteers. The engrossing Lawn Bowls and Para Lawn Bowls competition at Victoria Park in Royal Leamington Spa were given a fitting finale with the Cycling Road Races in Warwick.

"It has been a joyful time to join our guests and wholeheartedly celebrate these friendly Games, sharing with all 54 nations visiting our extraordinary and beautiful corner of the Commonwealth."