Horwich pupils bowled over by lottery grant
2:19pm Thursday 1st May 2008 in News By Amanda Smith
IT might be more commonly associated with couples in their autumn years wearing white.
But now sporty youngsters are set to liven up the sedate world of bowls.
And senior players hope it will help the sport to survive.
Horwich Bowling Club has received £4,458 of Lottery cash to set up a junior section.
Members have been working with pupils from Lord Street Primary School, Horwich, and they want to expand club activities to include children.
Fred Sellers, aged 70, who has been playing bowls for 50 years, said the money has been used to buy new equipment.
Mr Sellers, the club secretary, added: "Bowling is a dying art and we want people to learn the skill when they are young and take it through life with them.
"Too many bowling grounds are being sold off for houses to be built on.
"Receiving the Lottery money was a welcome boost for the club and it meant we have been able to invest in new bowls for the children."
Samantha Johnson, aged 11, said: "I got involved because I've been watching my granddad since I was five.
"It looked interesting and I like it because it makes you healthy and stretches your muscles."
Brittany Floyd, aged 11, said: "My granddad has been playing since he watched his dad from the age of 11 and I wanted to do that as well. It gives you lots of exercise."
David Ouldcott, aged 11, said: "I just wanted to have a try because I thought it would be fun. I like how its keeps you healthy."
Mr Sellers said: "We hope parents and grandparents who bring the children along will get involved too. It's something all the family can do."
Children aged seven upwards will be welcome to take part and regularly Saturday morning junior classes start this weekend.
For more information, contact Mr Sellers on 01204 696765.
