BOWLERS in Dawlish are on target for fundraising success after being given a major boost by Teignbridge Council.

Members of the council’s executive committee have agreed to extend Dawlish Marina Bowls Club’s lease on its land and buildings at Sandy Lane for another 38 years.

It was only in February this year that it was stretched to 28 years.

The club says the extra decade will give it the security to apply for funds from national organisations, to be spent on improving facilities.

A report to the committee said the club would be able to call on bodies such as Bowls England and Sports England for backing to improve the playing surface as well as adapt the clubhouse to offer better facilities for junior bowls and women’s teams.

The club will get the lease for £1 a year, but in return will have to pick up the bill for maintenance, which the council estimates at around £7,500 a year.

‘It is an excellent club with more than 100 members,’ said Cllr David Palethorpe (Lib Dem, Ipplepen). ‘This will allow them to determine their own future.’

Council leader Richard Keeling (Lib Dem, Chudleigh) added: ‘This is very welcome, and it shows that Teignbridge is pulling out all the stops to help local groups.

‘At 38 years this is not a normal extension, but it has been done so they can apply for further grant funding.’