A Coalville bowls club that has been given a new lease of life is looking for new members - and will host a family open day so everyone can give the sport a try.

Ex-players, complete novices and young people are among those that the newly formed Scotlands Park Bowls Club is looking to attract after their facilities underwent a major refurbishment earlier this year.

Council aiming to revive bowls club in Coalville.

The work has been supported by North West Leicestershire District Council and funded through the Coalville Special Expenses Working Party.

The club now needs new members, and the open day this Saturday, June 26, is the perfect way to get involved.

Kicking off at 10am, there will be the opportunity to give bowls a go while receiving expert tips from club members and coaches as well as being able to take part in children-friendly games.

A barbecue and refreshments will be available throughout the day and guests are being encouraged to bring their friends and family along.

Dave Larkin, Chairman at Scotlands Park Bowls Club, said: "I'd recommend putting any preconceived ideas about bowls to one side and come down and give it a go – we're a friendly bunch and everyone will make you feel very welcome."

In addition to the funding to get the club back up and running, the bowls club received an additional £500 from the from the District Council's Small Grants scheme, and £450 from the Community and Sports Club Coronavirus Support Grant scheme which they used towards new equipment and that allowed them to follow COVID safety steps.

In 2018, the club took the decision to close its doors and the council has worked closely with Bowls Leicestershire and residents from Coalville and the surrounding area to reform the club to boost community morale and the health and wellbeing of local people.

Dave added: "We're really looking forward to start welcoming people back to Scotlands Park Bowls Club – it's a big achievement for us as most clubs across the country are closing so it's great that we're going against the trend.

"Members vary in ages and abilities which just goes to show, bowls isn't just about the sport, but the companionship and the mental and physical health benefits that come with it."

Councillor Andrew Woodman, Portfolio Holder for Community Services at NWLDC, said: "It's great to see Scotlands Park Bowls Club back up and running and ready to welcome people through their doors again.

"Bowls is a very inclusive sport which requires no experience so anyone from the community can come along and give it a go.

"If you have questions about becoming a member – even if you haven't played bowls before, the open day on Saturday 26 June is the perfect opportunity to learn more."