LOOKING for a new hobby? You are being invited to try your hand at the genteel sport of lawn bowling.

Free trial sessions are being held at King George’s Playing Fields in Brentwood and members of the public are encouraged to come along and have a go.

Experienced players from Brentwood Bowling Club will be on hand to welcome visitors to the open day and show them the tricks of the trade from 10am on Saturday, April 30.

Event spokesman Les Powell said: “We have some of the best bowlers in the area who are available to support new players with practical advice and coaching.

“Most of our new recruits achieve a standard high enough to play in league games during their first season.”

Brentwood Bowling Club has been at the heart of the town’s outdoor bowls community since 1908 and from 1964, it has been based in King George’s Playing Fields where it is bordered by parkland, a golf course, and wildlife- rich woodland.

The club’s website declares it to be “probably the fastest-growing lawn bowls club in the region”.

It has around 70 playing members who compete in several leagues.

Members regularly take part in a variety of outside competitions individual, pairs, triples and rinks and also support club competitions, friendly games against other clubs, and special events.

There is a thriving social member - ship and frequent events are held in the bowling pavilion during the closed season from October to April to enable everyone to keep in touch.

Officials say the success of their annual open day is vital to secure the future of the sport.

Mr Powell added: “It’s very important that we reach out to new players and returners to the sport.

“A lot of people dither for years be - fore giving bowls a try but when they eventually pluck up the courage, they invariably wish they’d made the move years ago!

“We promise newcomers will be pleasantly surprised to discover how easy it is to get started and enjoy a rollup with other players.”

Club members also organise social activities in the pavilion at King George’s Playing Fields including quizzes, race nights and music events.

For more information, visit brentwoodbowls.co.uk or call 01277 213937