THERE was an early season start for both Blackheath & Greenwich teams in the Bowls England Club Two Fours, who were involved in preliminary round matches.

B&G’s A team chalked up a 42-28 away win against Eltham A.

Andy Thomson led they way with a 26-8 win over Steve Harris and Neil Hornsby beat Brian Parsley 16-13.

They now have another away match against Met Police A in round one proper.

Blackheath & Greenwich's B team did not fair as well as they went down in a close game by three shots to Sidcup A 34-37.

Ted Wyeth drew with Sidcup’s Chris Lavis who scored a single on the last end to tie 19 all, but Richard Hurrell lost two shots on the last end losing to Bill Tivey 21-18.

In the first league match of the year, B&G defeated Division Two side Brittanic House 3-1 (99-54).

Blackheath & Greenwich have introduced a new members scheme to encourage those who have never bowled but always thought about having a go, as well as for the experienced bowler.

The essence of the scheme is new applicants can have a six-week trial period to see if the would like to take up the sport.

They would then receive a 50 percent discount on the annual membership fee in their first year, and only pay 75 percent of the fee in their second year.

These discounts would not apply to previous members of the club.

Anyone interested should visit blackheathandgreenwichbc.co.uk or call the club on 020 8852 0463 and leave a message.