Victoria Bowling Club in Greenock holds busy opening day

More than 60 people came along to watch club president James Sherriff senior officially open the green as his granddaughter Ellie Miller delivered the first bowl of 2024.

The members then played seven ends on the newly opened green before heading inside the clubhouse for some refreshments.

President James told the Tele that the club are now looking ahead to a busy season, with a packed calendar in terms of competitions and social events.

He also highlighted the efforts of club youngster Astyn McKechnie, who won an astonishing eight trophies last season and had to miss the opening day due to his commitments with the Scottish national side.

James said: “The weather stayed dry for us, which was brilliant.

“At the start I thought there would only be about 35 or 40 people but by teatime there were over 60.

“Everyone went out for seven ends after my granddaughter delivered the first bowl and they all enjoyed it.

“We had about three or four clubs there to support us, which was nice to see, as well as the Greenock & District president.

“We’re looking forward to the season ahead now, we’ve got Protec sponsoring us this year which we’re very grateful for – that’s helped us with the costs of the green.

“We’ve got a full schedule of competitions plus we’ve got young Astyn doing well, he was in Ireland on Saturday representing Scotland which is fantastic for the club.

“Hopefully we can get more younger members, we’re always keen to get more of them involved.

“We’re got a few players back this year for the league.

“That should give us a stronger team this year and we’re really looking forward to getting started.”