THE new bowls season is barely a month away but already members of a long-standing club cannot wait for it to be over.

Hayes Country Bowls Club have secured a long-running lease on their West Common Road home which will lead to a new pavilion and facilities.

However, the news the 54-year-old club has been waiting for will not come into effect until October 1, after this coming season.

Club chairman Phil Jurd said: "For the past 50 years we have had the insecurity of tenure hanging over us.

"It is a great relief this has happened and we are delighted. We have a great green which we hope the amenities will now match."

At the moment the club operates out of two portable buildings curtailing their ambitious plans for progression.

Direct Build Services of Sevenoaks has received planning permission to redevelop the site for construction of an apartment block and the new pavilion.

The season starts on April 23 followed by an open day on the May Day Bank Holiday starting at 2.30pm when the club welcomes prospective new members.

Coaching will be available on the day.

For more information, call Phil on 020 8466 1594 or club secretary Phil Seamer on 020 8402 3427.