A DALES bowling club is to hold a 24 hour marathon helping to raise money towards building a new clubhouse.

An eight strong team from Leyburn Bowling Club hope to complete round the clock with at least one bowler on the green at any one time between 5pm tomorrow and the same time on Sunday.

The club has occupied their Moor Road premises in Leyburn since 1922 when a group of local businessman bought the site and donated it to the club. For several years it was a strictly man’s preserve, now however the club has some women who are better players than their male counterparts. Matches are played either once or twice ever week in the summer.

With their latest venture they aim to raise money to enable the club to build a much-needed new clubhouse built alongside their outdoor green in time for the club’s centenary in 2020. Any proceeds will be shared with the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Spokesman Hazel Doig said: “We have planned a number of fundraising events including the marathon. I am sure, bowlers from other clubs and supporters will come along and play friendly games against our members during our 24 hours stint. Or they came come along and give us some support and have a drink and some cake."

Donations can also be made at gofundme.com/bowling-green-club-house.