A BOWLS club have held an interactive open day event after being given a grant by Test Valley Borough Council.

Andover Bowling Club were recently awarded an £862 Councillor Community Grant, awarded to the club by local ward councillors Iris Andersen, John Cockaday and David Denny.

The club used the money to purchase new equipment, which included a new ramp to improve access for wheelchair users and people with reduced mobility.

The remaining money was spent on new bowls and jacks that members of the public tested out during an open day back in April.

The well-attended event allowed visitors to try their hand at bowling, learn more about the club and speak to the coaching staff .

By the end of the day, 10 new members had joined the club with many others expressing an interest.

St Mary’s ward member, Councillor Iris Andersen, said: “We were delighted to present the club with the Councillor Community Grant to purchase new equipment.

“The open day was a great success and the additional equipment which was funded by the grant meant that more people could try the sport.

“The coaches were busy and the event achieved its goal to recruit new members.

“I’m really pleased to hear that another 10 people have joined the club since expressing their interest at the open day, which is fantastic news.”

For more information about the grants visit www.testvalley.gov.uk.