On 19th April, several hundred Croydon residents - and quite a few from further afield – turned out to celebrate the reopening of the bowling green in Coulsdon Memorial Ground.

The event was organised by the Friends of Marlpit Lane Bowling Green, the local volunteers who have restored the green after the council ceased support in 2011.

A day of free play and free putting equipment hire proved a massive draw on the Easter Saturday, with the first visitors arriving almost an hour before the event was due to start.

After the unexpectedly early opening, the FMLBG were ably assisted by the scouts in the morning, and leader Neil Burtenshaw took a hand in coaching the younger players.

Proving that bowls is open to players of any age or background, the Junior Ace bowls were scarcely out of use all day.

Local bowling figures in attendance included Andrew Newell of LawnBowls Jamaica who gave FMLBG coach Peter a game, and Ron Collingridge, local author of “Bowls, not Balls” who took a turn coaching during the afternoon.

Local political candidates Gill Hickson and Margaret Bird were also present, lending their support, along with Charles King of ECRA.

The event closed almost an hour later than expected, with the final bowlers leaving the green just after five.

The green was one of the few public greens in the area and open to anyone to turn up and play.

With the bowling green now restored to playing condition, the Friends aim to offer the same opportunity.

After 19th, the bowling green will now be open 2p.m.-6p.m. (circumstances permitting) throughout the remainder of the bowling season. Season tickets and household season tickets are also available.

Based on information supplied by FMLBG.