THE sun was shining over Burghfield Bowls Club when its new playing green was unveiled.

Current members and newcomers were welcomed to the club’s new home at Burghfield CSA, in James Lane, for an open day on Sunday.

Club president Valerie Woodbridge officially opened the new green in front of more than 60 visitors and Kevin Belcher, the club’s captain, felt the mixture of current members and first-time players created a competitive atmosphere.

He said: “Sunday was a fantastic day for Burghfield Bowls Club. There were a few interesting clashes of bowls at times, but everyone made the most of the gorgeous weather.

“Everyone had a fun day out and many of the newcomers will be attending a four week coaching course beginning on Mondays from 6-8pm.

“Others will be attending for additional lessons and social bowling after Easter.”

The club is still in negotiations with West Berkshire Council to secure planning permission for a new pavilion at the CSA.

The council is demanding the club meet BREEAM regulations - the world’s most widely used method of assessing, rating and certifying the sustainability of buildings - but Mr Belcher said progress is being made and is hopeful the pavilion will be in place by the summer. He added: “We have finally had BREEAM pre-assessed.”

Due to the response to Sunday’s event, the club is now organising further open days in May and anybody interested in trying out the sport or joining the club can contact Kevin on 0118 933 2581 or visit http://burghfield.bowls-club.co.uk/