BOLTON Flat Green Bowling Club hosted the final qualifiers for this year's Bolton Open Pairs competition ahead of this weekend’s grand final.

Leverhulme Park was the sunny setting for the latest round of this year’s competition over the Easter weekend, which saw competitors travel from all over the nation, Scotland and even Hong Kong.

A club spokesperson said: “The weather was hot, the bowls were scorching in the latest round of qualifiers for this year’s Bolton Open Pairs competition.

“In the end two teams from Scotland and two from Lancashire made it through.

“The tension was unbearable at times with things going right down to the wire - with just two ends to play, four teams were in with a chance of qualifying. It was that close.”

The Grand Final takes place from 10am next Sunday (April 24) when 12 teams will compete for the £2,000 prize pot.

The spokesperson added: “The weather is predicted to be fine. The beer will be cold. Hot food will be available and the club welcomes supporters and public alike to witness some of the best bowlers around.”