Not only will a successful campaign raise dwindling numbers it will provide an active outlet particularly for those seeking companionship as well as competition. The club aims to attract families looking for a sport in which they can all participate, aged from eight to 80 and beyond.

The Open weekend (from 9.30am to 4pm on each day) will showcase the game and encourage those who come along to the free sessions to try the sport on our six rink facility.

Equipment and tuition from experienced players and coaches is provided free of charge, participants just need to wear flat-soled shoes or trainers.

While bowls tends nationally to receive an unfortunate 'ageism' press, hundreds have discovered locally that not only does it extend an active lifestyle, overcomes loneliness and mental health issues, it really gets those competitive juices working again - something many may not have experienced since they were regularly playing cricket, football, tennis, rugby, netball, golf and hockey, for example.

Says club president Ian Hall, who is chairing a recruitment committee distributing leaflets to hundreds of households: "I discovered bowls after finishing cricket and it has filled an enormous sporting gap and I know many other men and women who have played sport at a good level, have taken up bowls and found it not only suits them competitively but socially, too.

"But it is important to stress, it is not just for the older age group, Stamford has nurtured some talented youngsters who have gone on to represent the club at county, national and even international level."

The Stamford club, entirely run by volunteers, was recently recognised by the national body for its endeavours in recruitment and aims to further boost its membership through this promotion next weekend.