RENOWNED as the oldest of its kind in Wales, Abergavenny Bowls Club began their 150th Anniversary year with the recent opening of the Avenue Road green for the 2010 season.

This was followed by the official opening of their much improved pavilion and both occasions were exceptionally well attended.

The opening ceremony began with the Club's Chairman Ieuan Jenkins welcoming the club's guests which included former members of Abergavenny Bowls Club, Town Mayor, Douglas Edwards, Monmouthishire County Council representative Mr Mike Moran, Chairman of Abergavenny Round Table, Mr James Boret, and past President of the Welsh Bowls Association, Mr Graham Jones who opened the new facility.

Mr Jenkins thanked the representatives of the above organisations for the financial support given to the Bowls Club which enabled the club to extend their pavilion, and generally improve the facilities.

These improvements will enable the club to host six rink matches in the future with some 48 players, and officers, allowing the club to host county matches as well as touring sides.

The Bowls Club would also like to thank their sponsors whose support has helped them put together a programme of celebration matches for the special season ahead.

These matches include friendly games against the Welsh Presidents Invitation Team, the Monmouthshire and East Monmouthshire Presidents Invitations Teams and the renowned Barbarians.

The club is holding a celebration Dinner Dance at the Angel Hotel in October to conclude its 150th year. The evening will also include a raffle which has been supported by local businesses, who have generously provided many attractive prizes.

Chairman of Abergavenny Bowls Club Mr Ieuan Jenkins said, "We are open to membership from residents within the Abergavenny area and we welcome any enquiries in relation to taking up bowls, from both males and females and from early teen years upwards.

"We have three club coaches who are only too pleased to provide instruction. So why not pop along and try this challenging sport.

"For sportsmen who are no longer able to play soccer, rugby, or other sports, why not give bowls a try, you'll be surprised how great this game is.

"It gets you out into the fresh air and unlike cricket we play in the rain and you get to meet some very pleasant people."

If you are interested in playing bowls telephone 01873 855631 for further information.