Top Bowler to Showcase Equipment at Stamford

He says: "Stamford bowlers have always been great supporters of my road show and I am delighted to be back to show them what equipment is available as well as help them choose the right bowls to suit them and achieve consistency, whatever their ability.

" I always recommend buying new or nearly new bowls from a recommended retailer who will give good advice on the size and weight to fit your hand and your style of delivery. You need to find the right model and size to suit you if you are going to perform with any consistency."

He says that if a bowler wants to play competitively they must have a set of four matching bowls with an up to date stamp. Buying an old, second hand pair of bowls may limit their competitive or even social bowling activity.

"A bowl needs to fit the speed or pace of the carpet you play on regularly. At Stamford, for example, before the carpet was updated pre-lockdown, it was nearly 20 years old and pretty worn in places. Therefore with less friction over the surface, it was fast by modern standards. But with its new underlay, the current carpet runs a little slower over the surface than before.

"The club has kindly set aside a rink so customers will be able try bowls before considering a purchase."

Mark, who was runner-up in the EBA outdoor champion of champions singles this year and will be contesting, the World Indoor Singles and Pairs at Potters in January, will be at Stamford from 11 am until early evening.

He adds: "Never be afraid to ask the advice of a respected, competitive bowler at your club. Most are are always willing to pass on their knowledge of how different rinks at your club perform, useful tactics and what to expect when playing on different surfaces at away clubs. For tips on technique your local coaches will always be happy to help."

All local bowlers are welcome, whether or not a member at Stamford.

Stamford Indoor Bowls Club is to host its annual Christmas Fours Tournament on Tuesday December 28 - this year doubling the prize money to £300.

Having withdrawn from the newly-established EIBA-backed Singles Circuit, the club has decided to invest more into its popular event, which in the past has had former World Indoor Singles champion Nick Brett competing alongside its members.

He said at the time: "I love playing with club bowlers in tournaments like this. It's great fun and far better than practising on my own ahead of the world championship at Potters in January. You still have to play all the shots."

Organisers Carol & Bob Warters aim to stage four sessions of seven ends for each team, hopefully attracting a total of almost 100 bowlers in two groups, initially starting at 9.30am and 10.30 am.

Entry is £20 per team with forms available now from the club reception or call (01780 756452) during opening hours.

Pre-booked meals are available at £6.50 and closing date is December 17.