Bowling along nicely for their age...

But the action at North Leeds Bowling Club yesterday could have been record-breaking in its own right, as a particularly experienced group of competitors took part in the seventh annual Jack Barstow Over 90s Open Bowling Competition.

The rules are simple – entrants to the bowling contest can be from anywhere in the country, as long as they are aged 90 or above.

Mr Barstow, founder of the competition, more than meets the requirements because he is preparing to mark his hundredth birthday in October.

Of the bowling competition, the grandfather-of-four said: “I started it 10 years ago and it’s gone very well, but I think I might drop out or start a 100 club.”

The inaugural competition was held in 2005, with just eight competitors.

Since then, the number of entrants has doubled to the 16 who had registered to take part yesterday.

A spokesman for North Leeds Bowling Club, in Roundhay, said: “Each year the competition attracts between 120 and 130 spectators.

“The level of skill, the competitive spirit, the positive attitude, all make for compelling viewing.”

Every player taking part yesterday afternoon received a cash prize, with trophies for the winner and runner-up.

Organisers say that they believe the Jack Barstow Over 90s contest may be the only bowling competition for nonagenarians in the world.