A 12-hour bowls marathon in Churchtown has raised more than three times its original fundraising target for Cornerstone Library, thanks to an extraordinary response from the local community.
On Sunday 30th August 2026, Derek Ainsworth bowled continuously from 8am until 8pm at Hesketh Arms Bowling Club, supported throughout the day by fellow bowlers, friends, library volunteers and members of the community.
Derek originally hoped to raise £1,000 for the volunteer-run library. By the end of the event, the total was expected to be well over £3,000.
The marathon brought together the local bowling community and Cornerstone Library volunteers for a day which included refreshments, homemade cakes, stalls and a raffle, as well as twelve hours of bowls.
Even a dramatic afternoon downpour failed to stop proceedings.
Reflecting at the end of the challenge, Derek said:
“It feels like a good day, a successful day. I’m just pleased that we raised a lot of money for the library and that’s the best thing ever.”
Derek thanked Hesketh Arms Bowling Club, the bowlers who joined him during the marathon, the Cornerstone Library volunteers who helped throughout the day and everyone who donated, sponsored, organised or supported the event.
The event also attracted wider attention, with Derek speaking to BBC Radio Merseyside ahead of the marathon.
More than fundraising
Cornerstone Library opened in Churchtown in October 2023 following a long community campaign to restore a local library service.
Today it is supported by more than 40 volunteers and provides much more than books. Alongside its regular library sessions, it offers Rhyme Time for pre-school children, free computer access and a growing Library-at-Home service for people who are unable to visit in person.
The success of Derek’s marathon has highlighted what can happen when people contribute their time, skills, experience and support to something they value in their community.
As Cornerstone looks to the future, the library would like to build on that spirit by bringing together more people, businesses and organisations who may have something to contribute.
Come to our Open Day on 19 September
Cornerstone Library is holding an Open Day on Saturday 19 September, 1.00 to 3.00PM and is inviting people from across the local community to come along, meet the team and find out more about the library and its plans for the future.
There are many ways to contribute to Cornerstone’s work.
The library is particularly interested in meeting people with skills, experience or interests in areas such as:
- governance and strategic development
- fundraising and events
- community outreach
- communications and digital media
- partnerships and sponsorship
- business and professional support
- library services and activities
Cornerstone would also welcome conversations with local business owners, community organisations, potential sponsors, collaborators and others who may be interested in supporting or working with the library.
Getting involved does not necessarily mean working behind the library desk. Some people may be able to give time regularly, others may have professional expertise, useful connections, practical skills or opportunities for partnership and support.
No previous connection with the library is necessary. The Open Day is simply an opportunity to visit, have a conversation and explore whether there may be a way for you, your business or your organisation to become involved.
Cornerstone Library Open Day
Saturday 19 September 2026
Cornerstone Library
1 Marshside Road
Churchtown, Southport PR9 9TL
Everyone is welcome. Come and meet the team, find out what Cornerstone is working towards and discover how you could contribute to its next chapter.
Further information about Derek’s bowls marathon, including photographs and video from the day, is available at https://cornerstonelibrary.org/dereks-bowls-marathon/
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