FASCINATED and intrigued by a game of bowls they watched being played in Weymouth, a group of Lydney men decided to bring the sport back to town.

From small beginnings on a rink laid on lawns beside the famed Feathers Hotel, Harry Lewis, Archie Wood and Osman Ridler became founder members when the Lydney Bowling Club was born in 1926. They paid the Feathers an annual rent of just £10 for the green!

Members used the Feathers green for a further 26 years. Hotel expansion plans in 1952 brought about the move to the present greens in nearby Bathurst Park and the rest, as they say, is history!

The captain this season is Gordon Blake. As a young man he skippered both Lydney's cricket and soccer teams and, though he is comparatively new to bowls, he is looking forward to the challenge. He is being ably assisted by vice-captain Peter O'Donahoo.

"Over many years the club has played a prominent part in Lydney's sporting heritage. It has a long history but continues to look forward and with over 60 members there is always lots going on," said Gordon.

The club has an impressive list of past presidents, Des Thomas being the current top man. Two members, Terry Jones and Philip D'Aquillio have been rewarded for their service to the club by being elected life members. Philip, now 91, is still a regular player. Next season Ron Bryant will become the club's longest serving member having joined 50 years ago!

Gordon said the club was fortunate to have a strong committee under the chairmanship of Claude Poole with John Goodman as secretary, Dianne Gray as treasurer, Dianne Stamp as benevolent fund secretary and Roy Gray and Tony Harris as committee members.

He also thanked the chief sponsors, Gordon Blake Funerals and the Co-operative Society who provided a grant for new equipment for short mat bowls, an indoor version of the game played in the winter and organised by Jacqueline and Steven Davis.

The club competes in a host of competitions, all compiled by fixture secretary Doreen Thomas. There are 49 friendlies, eight senior citizens games, 17 league games, eight county league games plus club competitions.

There is also a very active ladies section under the chairmanship of Doreen Thomas. The secretary is Jean Edwards and other officials are Margaret Anstey (treasurer) and Peggy Aldridge (benevolent fund secretary). The team is captained this year by Pat O'Donahoo.

The club holds an open night every Wednesday (6pm) when anyone interested in playing is more than welcome.