BOWLS...the quintessential game which epitomises an English summer, is alive and well in Cinderford.

While nationally there has been a hiccup in the numbers playing the game, Cinderford Bowling Club has welcomed new players this year and club officials are hoping the trend will continue.

"We have been doing rather well and there is a lot of interest," said club spokesman Brian Clark.

The club's latest match was a friendly against old rivals Churchdown played at the club's Steam Mills headquarters on Friday evening.

"It's a game we always look forward to as we have a very good relationship with them," said Mr Clark.

And to top off an excellent evening, Cinderford won the game, played on five rinks, by 104 shots to 74.

The club plays in two leagues, the local and competitive Wyevern League and the CMA League.

A good run of results should see Cinderford take runners'-up spot in the CMA League while they are in mid-table in the Wyevern.

"Results-wise it has been a good summer for us and we have enjoyed better results than for a number of summers. We hope that will be a continuing trend," said Mr Clark.

The club has a unique relationship with Cinderford's Forge Centre, local headquarters for those with blindness or partial sight.

Every week men and women from the Centre take to the greens to play bowls - and they have improved in leaps and bounds.

"They are going from strength to strength and have improved tremendously. Some have even become members of the club and play in our normal games. It is a tremendous achievement and we are quite proud of them," said Mr Clark.

•Interested in having a go? Pop by the club at 6pm on Wednesday evenings and a qualified coach will help you find your feet