A MAJOR bowls tournament looks likely to become a permanent fixture in its new home in a former mining town.

The Indoor Bowls Centre, above the Asda store in Stanley, County Durham, is to be the venue for the UK national qualifiers for the World Bowls Tour (WBT) and Professional Bowls Association (PBA) in September.

The event has traditionally taken place in Blackpool, but moved to Stanley in 2002, attracting a record number of more than 200 entrants. Organisers were so impressed with the facilities and the welcome they received, they have already decided to return.

David Corkill, the BBC's bowls commentator and head of both the PBA and WBT, praised the venue. "After some 32 years playing the game, it is fair to say that it is arguably the best green I played on during that time," he said.

The former UK champion was full of praise for residents. "The people in the North-East have a reputation for being approachable and friendly and they didn't disappoint," he said.

Bill Collin, head of the bowls centre, said: "We are delighted. It means a lot more hard work, but it is big news for Derwentside. There are not that many world-class sporting facilities in North-East England and this proves that Stanley Indoor Bowls Centre is one of them.

"We pride ourselves in the North-East on being hospitable and friendly and all our guests remarked on that. We always knew that was one of our strengths, but the green is one of the best around and that was what really impressed."

He said the key to its success had been a major overhaul of the centre after it won a large National Lottery grant five years ago. "We had the floor laser-levelled and new carpet and underlay put in - it is just beautiful now.

"But the most important thing is that the standard is the same across all eight rinks, which is very rare."

This quality has earned Stanley another big bowls contest - the Denny Cup, to take place in February, 2004. "This is the FA Cup for bowls teams," said Mr Collin. "The top eight teams from around the country will be competing. It all brings money into the area - the players always bring people with them."