Largs Bowling Club is amongst 182 clubs across Scotland taking part in Bowls Scotland’s Try Bowls campaign this summer.

Over 100 bowling clubs capitalised on the heightened post Commonwealth games interest in the sport by offering ‘Try Bowls’ last summer. And as a result many clubs across the country reported increases in memberships.

Try Bowls 2015 officially starts this weekend when a number of clubs across the country host open days. Bowls Scotland is also supporting the STV Appeal by encouraging clubs offering Try Bowls to take part in a Trick Shot Challenge.

Said Largs Bowling Club Secretary, Mike Penfold: “Our Try Bowls campaign consists of promoting a “New Start” membership category at a much reduced rate which offers eight weeks free coaching on Saturday mornings, followed by participation in the normal club events but not Ayrshire or Scottish competitions.

“Last year we took part in Try Bowls to raise the profile of our club in the community and increase our membership. As a result we attracted 21 “New Start” bowlers, and 15 have rejoined this year as full members.

“Bowling in general and specific clubs can only benefit from this scheme in terms of a raised profile and more members. In parallel with Try Bowls we are running a schools coaching programme with the long term aim of creating a thriving junior section.” “By taking part in Try Bowls at our club people get to try a new sport, receive free coaching, get some healthy exercise and meet and socialise with other members of the community.” For more information on Try Bowls visit: www.trybowls.com