World u-25s here

GUERNSEY has won the right to stage the 2005 world under-25 bowls championships. Supported by VisitGuernsey and the Cobo Bay Hotel, the Guernsey Indoor Bowling Association were successful in their bid to stage the annual event which will bring in players from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Malaysia and the home countries for five days early in November.

The previous two championships, organised by the World Indoor Bowls Council, were held in Jersey.

But, it is understood, the Caesareans did not bid on this occasion.

Paul Ingrouille, the GIBA press officer, said offshore venues such as the Channel Islands were popular not only for the views but also the low costs.

'The Channel Islands can do it cheaper.

'Here the stadiums are made available at no cost or low cost, whereas on the mainland clubs would charge more.

VisitGuernsey were approached to under-write the event last September and agreed to provide £5,000 of funding early this year.

Peter Harris, secretary of GIBA, said it was 'nice to demonstrate that bowls is not just an old man's sport'.

He estimates that the event will bring up to 100 people into the island, including 32 of the best young players in the world.

The event runs from 2 to 6 November.