BOWLS’ Big Weekend is returning for its fifth year with a record-breaking 800-plus clubs signed up to offer free taster sessions across the country, including the Wellington Bowling Club.

Taking place from May 23 to 26, the annual national event is designed to introduce more people to the sport of bowls, with clubs nationwide opening their doors for the bank holiday weekend, offering free taster sessions available to all ages and abilities.

Bowls’ Big Weekend is organised by Bowls England, in partnership with Aviva, and is aiming to introduce 20,000 new people to the sport this year. Wellington Bowling Club is one of 43 clubs in Somerset set to host later this month, with a full list available on the Bowls England website.

Sian Honnor, four-time Commonwealth medallist and Bowls England board member said: “Bowls has so much to offer as a sport, it really is something that everyone can get involved in. Bowls’ Big Weekend is always a brilliant weekend to showcase what our sport has to offer.”

Jon Cockcroft, Bowls England chief executive, said: “We’re so proud to be delivering our fifth Bowls’ Big Weekend over the Spring Bank Holiday. The event has grown year on year thanks to the incredible work of bowls clubs across our country and it is a key part of the recent growth of our sport.

“Bowls is a sport that can be played by all ages and abilities. It brings family and friends together and makes people healthier and happier. We encourage everybody to come down and give it a go. You will be assured of a warm welcome, you’ll meet some great people, and you’ll enjoy the simple challenge of getting that bowl close to the Jack.”

To find out more, visit: www.bowlsbigweekend.com/find-a-club/