Tough action as trouble erupts ...on bowling green

THE genteel sport of crown green bowls may not seem like the most likely target of a curb on alcohol.

But now a crown green bowls association has implemented tougher rules after a rise in alcohol-related trouble at matches.

Clubs across Shropshire face stricter sanctions to curb a sharp increase in incidents of antisocial behaviour.

Shropshire Crown Green Bowls Association has sent every club a new code of conduct which addresses the subject.

The tougher guidelines received overwhelming approval at the association’s AGM at Bagley BC in Shrewsbury.

Outgoing county president Mike Caddick said players can now be fined, suspended or banned if the rules on drunken behaviour are not followed.

“It started to creep in a bit last year, mostly among spectators,” he said. “They were being overenthusiastic mainly as a result of alcohol.

“When it starts to get a bit too noisy and a bit too personal with the bad language then it spoils everybody’s enjoyment.

“The general opinion is that it is not wanted in bowls, what bowls is about.”

Mr Caddick said one player had already been banned from playing and watching matches due to anti-social behaviour.

He added: “He turned up several times and disrupted proceedings.

“Hopefully the action taken by the county will be sufficient to deter future incidents.” it is not