Guernsey hosts global Indoor Bowls competition

Competitors from 30 countries are travelling to Guernsey for seven days of play.

Around 100,000 people will have their eyes on Guernsey from Sunday (21 April), as the island hosts the World Bowls Indoor Championship.

58 athletes will compete across the week at the stadium in the Vale from 8am to 8pm.

World Bowls CEO Neil Dalrymple hopes that by showcasing the sport in different places will inspire newcomers.

"From a global perspective, we are very keen to share these events around the world and it is important to take the event to different places so we can promote the sport.

"It is close to 60 players. There are a number of managers, coaches, tournament directors - one from Scotland and one from England. We have got umpires travelling, there is a lot of expertise flying in.

"With the support of the locals, who have been fantastic, we are very confident it is going to be a great event."

The head of the international sport federation adds that he is delighted it is being held in Guernsey.

"I think it is fantastic that the Guernsey Indoor Bowls Association put its hand up to host this event. (They are) Wonderful partners in delivering the event.

"The enthusiasm and expertise have been overwhelmingly good. I think bowls is very lucky to have these people and the sport is in very good hands."

Guernsey has won a number of titles at the event since becoming a member in 1998, including five ladies' singles, three mixed pairs and one men's singles.

Competing for the island this year is Jason Greenslade and Rosie Ogier.

The event is being live-streamed online to spectators around the world.