Members of two bowling clubs have been supporting a Lottery initiative to encourage residents to live longer, healthier and more fulfilling lives.
Lawn bowlers from Brentwood Bowling Club and carpet bowlers from Herongate-based Stonyhill Bowls Club helped run a bowls roadshow as part of a successful family fun day at King George's Playing Fields last Friday.
Bowlers joined Bowls Development Alliance (BDA) staff to answer questions about the sport and to spread the word that it's fun, friendly and a great way to keep fit.
Essex has been chosen because the BDA has identified strong potential demand for bowls in the county, which has a high population in the 55-plus target age group.
Brentwood Bowling Club has enjoyed a bumper summer season with a record number of new members and free coaching on the greens at King George's Playing Fields.
Stonyhill has also attracted new members by offering indoor taster sessions throughout the year and, later this month, an intensive two-day "Come & Try" promotion is being held for anyone wanting to have a go.
The event is being organised by Ann Betts, who took up bowling three years ago after retiring from Brentwood County High School where she was an assistant head teacher.
She said: "Bowling has a very bright future in Brentwood because of the changing age profile of the population.
"Bowling is a great activity for all ages but most new bowlers tend to be retired or approaching retirement and numbers in these groups are increasing."
There is no need to book for the Stonyhill Come & Try sessions, which will take place on September 27 from 4 to 10pm and September 28 from 10am to 3pm.
All equipment will be provided but, if possible, visitors are asked to bring flat-soled shoes.
