A CHARITY has been handed a lifeline by a bowls cut which is shutting down.

Members of the Petts Wood and Crays branch of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution were given £2,500 by the ex-captain of the Oak bowling club Eric Smith.

The club has been handing out money it has raised over the years to various charities.

A cheque was presented at the branch’s fundraising event in the memorial hall, Petts Wood Road, Petts Wood.

Mr Smith, 84, said: “We’ve raised thousands of pounds and have had good fun doing it, but unfortunately bowls is on the decline.”

For a £3 club badge write to Eric Smith, 81 Bromley Common, BR2 9RN.