BOWLS enthusiasts will start their new season from vastly improved facilities.

Thirsk Athletic Bowls Club has been given £5,000 Yorventure grant to replace the old conservatory at the front of their pavilion.

About 100 members compete in four bowls leagues, meeting regularly at their base at Thirsk Racecourse.

Spokesman David Wilson said: "The pavilion was made of wood and glass and was so old it was falling to bits.

"We rely on a lot of voluntary effort to keep the bowling green well maintained, so any financial support we receive is extremely welcome."

Yorventure is backed by Northallerton waste management company Yorwaste Ltd, which manages the landfill site at West Tanfield, Ripon.

In addition to its grant, the bowls club has been given £500 by Thirsk Round Table.