A TOWN has welcomed visitors from across the country for an international bowls contest.

The British Isles Indoor Bowls U25 Men’s International Series was hosted at Stanley Indoor Bowls Centre on Saturday and Sunday.

The event took place from 9.30am each day and saw teams from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales compete in a round robin tournament.

Durham County Councillor Carl Marshall, who represents Stanley, said: “It’s absolutely fantastic to see hundreds of visitors from across the United Kingdom in Stanley at our world class indoor bowls club.

“The bowls has been fantastic, with some of the best bowlers across the British Isles on show.

“The town has been bustling with visitors taking the time to explore the area.”

This is the first time that Stanley IBC has hosted this tournament, but they have successfully hosted the British Isles U18s and the prestigious Men’s and Women’s International Series and Championships four times.

Six top-class matches took place over the two days and tourism chiefs hope the event will encourage people to return to see more of the region.

Michelle Gorman, managing director of Visit County Durham said “Not only does this raise our profile as a destination known for hosting global sporting events, but it also encourages local communities to get involved in the tournament, which in turn boosts the county’s visitor economy.”