A NEW body has been formed with the aim of returning the game of crown green bowls to its former glories.

In the 1980s, competition bowls flourished with tournament full' signs up early across the North as players were attracted by good prize money and a chance to win a place in the prestigious Masters tournament which was televised live.

Now the new Crown Green Players Association says every player, male and female, can take part in the revival.

Everyone who is registered with the British Crown Green Bowling Association will automatically become a member of CGPA, with no subscription to pay at least in the first year.

Players will earn points for reaching the final stages of competitions that have at least 64 entries and a total prize fund of £1,000 and above.

At the end of the season in October the top 32 bowlers in the ranking table will be invited to compete in a masters event in the summer of 2006.

Sponsors are now being sought for the tournament. For more details of the association or to help, write to the secretary at 34 Chilton Drive, Middleton, M24 2LQ or email CGPA2005@hotmail.com.