LOCHWINNOCH Bowling Club’s president has revealed a growing number of young people are choosing the lawns over football. 

Vincent Spalding said that, for many, the low cost of membership and year-round social events at his club are proving to be more attractive than a football season ticket.

His remarks follow the opening weekend of action at the club, where Gerald McCoy and Thomas Sibald emerged victorious in the two-bowl pairs competition.

Mr Spalding said: “Bowling used to be seen as an older game but that seems to be changing.

“I think that is all to do with cost, with membership costing only £100 a year compared to upwards of £500 you pay to go to football.

“We are getting a really good turnout this year and have more and more juniors coming through.”

Founded over 120 years ago, the club has more than 50 members who hail from across Renfrewshire.

Playing in the Johnstone and District League, the club is hoping for a successful season after finishing in second place last time around. 

The club has also been boosted by the return of a ladies team after an eight-year absence due to a lack of members.

Mr Spalding added: “Two years ago, we were fighting relegation but, last year, we finished second.

“We’ve got a few members returning to the club who had left and we are hopeful they will help push us over the line to finally claim the title.”