Mawnan Bowling Club is celebrating its centenary season by hosting a free open day to show 'bowls is fun for all ages'.

The club was founded by lord and lady Rendlesham in 1924 and has seen significant changes over its hundred-year history.

Its inaugural match took place at Carwinion Road against Falmouth, with the clubhouse lit by Tilley lamps and heated by paraffin heaters.

Club secretary Malcolm Dearnley said: "You think of the old days of picks and shovels, establishing greens.

"The centenary celebration is in recognition of our forefathers’ hard work that they’ve put into establishing this club."

The Centenary Open Day will take place on April 27, kicking off at 11am and finishing at 3pm.

In an effort to draw in newer members and celebrate this milestone, the club is extending an offer of a year's free membership.

Falmouth Packet:

Mr Dearnley also addressed the common misconception of bowls being a sport solely for the older generation.

He said: "Yes, it was known as old man’s marbles but that is now changing.

"There is a trend for a younger generation now taking part in this game.

"We have a number of junior bowls sets thanks to a £510.00 grant from the parish council, which now enables us to give free coach-led bowling sessions to Years 4 and 5 school children."

Club chairman Alf Rodda emphasised the fun and social aspects of the sport, as well as the technical skill involved.

He said: "Our Open Day will focus on social play and fun games for all ages and is a fantastic opportunity to play bowls in a relaxed environment.

"Just turn up with flat shoes to have a go.

"It looks so easy but there's a subtlety about the game where all the woods have got biases... There's a lot of technique in it, much more than strength and women play on par with men."

The free centenary membership offer is only for newcomers to the club.