A BOWLS club for women in County Durham is looking for more members for the forthcoming season, even if they are a bit green at the game.

Women of all ages can play for Chester-le-Street Ladies Bowls Club at the new pavilion at the town's Riverside Ground.

Club secretary Patricia Stobbart said the club needs to be able to field 12 players every week for home and away matches. She said: "It would be good to have at least six more members so that we can cover holidays and illnesses of our members.

"A few people have retired and we need to replace them because we need to put out a side for the league."

Mrs Stobbart said its members get a lot more out of bowls than just the sheer enjoyment of the sport.

She added: "The doctor will tell you it is the best exercise in the world for the elderly and excellent fun. It is also a good social thing and we meet people from all over the area. Every home game we have a tea with home-made pies."

Games in the Northern Women's League are held home and away alternatively on Wednesdays while practice sessions are held on Tuesdays.

The first session for new members will be held at the Riverside Ground on May 5, at 1pm. Membership is £18 for the year and each session costs £1.50.

For details call Mrs Stobbart on (0191) 388 5758.