Greg Harlow brings Potters Roadshow to Stamford

Greg Harlow, with the contestants in a nearest-the-jack competition, from the left, Arthur Chapman, Christine Barnes, Owen Aspinall and Peter White.

FORMER world indoor bowls singles champion Greg Harlow was a special guest at Stamford IBC on Thursday when Potters Resort, whom he represents as an ambassador and as a professional on the bowling circuit, presented their travelling roadshow.

The event was hosted by the club to showcase the resort's holidays both at home and abroad but also to encourage potential new members to take up the game.

From seven-year-old Owen Aspinall to 93-year-old Arthur Chapman, the members and visitors provided irrefutable evidence that bowls is for all ages and abilities and Harlow and the Potters team were very impressed by the near 100 bowlers who turned up.

Said Harlow: "I haven't been to play at Stamford for many years, not since it staged some national regional qualifiers when I was much younger but it is a superb facility of which you should be very proud."

As well as some

musical entertainment from singer Rachel, an introduction to the work of the English Indoor Bowls Association by Development director Denis Goodley and a promotional address by Stamford-based David Thorpe from Bowls International, Harlow carried out some coaching of several volunteers, including Arthur and Owen, who also carried off spot prizes together with Christine Barnes and Peter White.

Among others receiving tips were Serena Brunning, Cherie Burgess, Ian Hall and John and Marie Allwood.

Said Harlow, who presented Owen with a World Bowls shirt after winning a nearest-the-jack competition : "Owen is a great little prospect. He has a super, low and smooth delivery and has already picked up all the mannerisms of a bowler, even at such a young age.

"He

just needs to stick at it and be encouraged and I'm sure in a few years time we will see him competing at a high level."

Earlier the Stamford St Gilbert's pupil was invited to draw out the ticket to win a holiday break at Potters, which went to club member Shirley Suffling.

A special. additional Open session for newcomers is due to be staged at the Stamford IBC on Saturday (Feb 20) from noon until 2.10 pm. Any wishing to be involved should report to the club where members will be able to show them the rudiments of the game.