THE DAILY ECHO'S BOWLS PAGE is launching its own National Recruitment Week to try to boost the numbers playing the popular and highly skilled game.

As in many other participation sports, fewer people are playing, but English Bowling Association chief executive Tony Allcock, is leading an initiative for clubs to find new recruits.

In an information pack to all clubs Allcock says: "The problem of falling numbers is not peculiar to bowls but I do believe our sport has a captive market in those who may be retiring from more active sports who will enjoy the benefits associated with the game.

"Clubs need to promote the sport and to encourage new members while stressing the importance of bowling for health and well-being."

He is asking clubs to hold open days, taster sessions for newcomers and instruction in the rudiments of the game and to stress what a sociable game it is. NRW runs from June 4-11.

Meanwhile, the new outdoor season is getting under way and Hampshire secretary Barry Melsom reports that entries for the county competitions are slightly down this year - in keeping with the national trend.

There are 451 bowlers aiming to win Graham Hillier's county singles crown - as well as the defending champion himself - while other entries are: pairs 457, triples 271 and fours 167.

Teams for the international trials at the New Lount club, Leicestershire, next month show only two Hampshire names.

Commonwealth Games silver medallist Dean Morgan, who first played for the senior England team six years ago, leads for the rink of the 'Devon Destroyer' Ian Bond on Sunday, May 29, while in the junior trial the previous day Michael Hutley leads for Northamptonshire skip Richard Lemon.

Both bowlers are members of Boscombe Cliff.