BOWLERS can now play again at Wharton Recreation Ground.

Winsford Town Council has agreed to a request from the club to reopen the greens but stressed that council staff will not be available to offer any support and there will be no access to toilets.

Members must adhere to social distancing guidelines and take full responsibility for running the facilities.

Town clerk Mark Bailey told members at a remote council meeting last Monday: "The club has asked to be allowed to use the bowling facilities citing the

advantages for health, both physical and mental which is perfectly reasonable.

"We have taken Government advice and advice from the British Association of Crown Green Bowlers about using the greens.

"We are not taking the risk of council staff coming into contact with bowlers. Council staff will only open the green up but will not be in hand to help in way, shape or form.

"We are not opening the compound and there will be no access to toilets."

The bowling club, he said, understood the situation and was happy to take responsibility for insurance.

Cllr Dave Edwards said: "I am very happy for people to use the bowling green as long as they behave in a manner that supports Covid-19. It is good for Wharton and good for Winsford for people to have structured exercise and spend time with their families doing something together outside the house."

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Cllr Lyndsay Barwell, chairman of the parks committee added: “One of the few activities which is not heavily restricted is daily exercise. I am concerned about people who have limited space at home.

"I am supportive of our local bowling groups wanting to resume games for club members. Safety must come first and any reopening will be closely monitored.”