Sporting enthusiasts were bowled over when they celebrated the opening of a new £176,000 pavilion in Wickford.

Members of Wickford Bowls Club watched in delight on Saturday as the ribbon was cut on the premises which were finished just in time for the new season.

It meant that despite technical problems and bad weather, the exciting scheme met its deadline. The club, based in the town's memorial park, raised £30,000 towards the work and was awarded a £73,000 National Lottery grant and another £73,000 from Cleanaway Pitsea Marshes Trust.

First ball : Marion Adams bowls a first wood with the new clubhouse in the background Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY

The first match was due to be held on the new turf yesterday when Wickford played host to the Pegasus Bowling Club from Corringham.

The pavilion will be officially opened in a grand ceremony on May 10 by Arthur Hockley, the president of the English Building Association.

Representatives from Cleanaway, Lotto and various councillors will also attend the opening.

Published Tuesday, April 29, 2003

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