Young bowlers have eyes on the future with county call-up

TWO junior members of Barwell Indoor Bowling Club (BIBC) have had their burgeoning skills in the sport recognised with a call-up to the Leicestershire Under 18s squad.

Ellie-Marie Hamblett (pictured left) and Erin BoydHope (pictured right) made their debut for the County side on November 12 during a thrilling 18 Ends triples match against Norfolk in Peterborough.

The comparatively young Leicestershire team were dominant from start to finish.

Ellie and Erin both helping to secure wins for their individual Rinks and contributing to the overall 82-58 win for Leicestershire.

The County call-up is testament to the skills that both girls have developed in the game, being a feather in the cap to both the Barwell club and its junior coaching staff.

Ellie, aged 12, has been playing since she was sixyears-old and is already competing alongside adults in friendly and league competitions at club and national levels.

In October she was appointed as Captain of the BIBC Under 18s side, the youngest person ever to hold the position.

Erin, also 12, is now in her third season with Barwell.

Since taking up the sport she has shown a natural aptitude on the green, catching the attention of coaches, players and club officials alike.

Her ability has ensured that she too can take her place alongside senior members in club matches at home and away.

Together with Ellie the two former Newlands Primary School pupils have created a formidable pairing, claiming many victories for the Barwell junior side, and often against older and more experienced opposition.

Both hope that their County selection is a stepping stone to even greater things, with their sights set on potentially representing their country in years to come.

The Barwell Indoor Bowling Club junior squad meets for training at 4pm every Friday during the indoor season (October to May).

Full training is provided by qualified coaches, and bowls are supplied. For details visit http://barwell-indoorbowls. co.uk/