LYDNEY, the Forest's oldest bowls club, and Cinderford, the youngest, share a common problem – they both want to encourage younger people to take up the sport.
Both clubs have packed fixture lists and also host a variety of in-club competitions.
But they are finding it difficult to shake off the image that bowls is for older people.
"It really is a great game. Once people play they very quickly become hooked. It is skilful and very enjoyable," says Cinderford's Dave Gardner, the club's chairman and a life member.
Dave has played a huge role in the success of the Steam Mills-based club.
He admits the grass of his home lawn needs attention but as green keeper at Steam Mills he is proud of the comments his well kept greens often attract from passing motorists.
"A lot of people stop or slow down to look - it's a wonder there has not been a crash," he says.
The club has around 70 members but only half a dozen or so are aged under 50.
"We would welcome some younger members," he says.
Lydney, 75 years old next summer, also want some young blood.
"I suspect its the same with a lot of clubs. We would welcome some younger players to join us. There is always someone available to offer coaching," said Roger Freeman.
Anyone interested in trying their hand at bowls is welcome at both clubs on Wednesday evenings.
Lydney bowlers were Cinderford's first ever opponents when the Cinderford green opened in June 1992 – and they have played each other in a friendly on the same day ever since.
They also meet regularly in league matches with Lydney winning last week's encounter in the Wyvern League.
It has been a good start for Lydney with wins over Ross, Monmouth and Cinderford and a draw against Royal Forest.
Cinderford have lost two of their opening three games but with the season still young there will be plenty of opportunities to turn over the early setbacks.