Both recreational and competitive bowlers are enjoying the newly refurbished indoor bowls facility at the National Sports Centre, Douglas. Hon Tim Crookall MHK, Minister for Community, Culture and Leisure, said: ‘The NSC is the only place where indoor bowling can take place on the Island and we have a superb facility that caters for both recreational and competitive bowlers. ‘It’s pleasing that refurbishment of the indoor bowls facility has been completed ahead of schedule. It enables people of all ages to enjoy the sport whatever the weather, and whatever their level of ability.’ Carl Glover, NSC Manager, commented: ‘The advantages of indoor bowling are that it isn’t an expensive sport to get into and it can be played all year round. It’s a great way to make new friends; bowling is enjoyed by both male and female participants of all ages.’ The NSC caters for customers who want a casual, non competitive game of bowls while for the more competitive bowler there is a league structure in place with more than 100 members. Newcomers to bowling are always welcome and anyone interested should contact NSC reception on 688588 for details on lane availability. Charges with resident’s discount card are ?7.60 per hour for adults or ?6.90 for senior citizens. Refreshments are available from the NSC Cafe and also the vending machines. The Bowls Club are always looking for new members – for details on how to get into competitive indoor bowling, contact Joyce Ogden on 616139. Bowling on Friday morning last week was Paula Garrett, of Douglas. She said: ‘I have been playing crown green bowls for three years and this is my first season playing indoor bowls. I love it – it’s great fun and the NSC facilities are brilliant.’ Paula now competes in league games along with her husband Stuart and Meg and Ken Williams as the Ragamuffins team. ENDS