BARRY Athletic’s 4Wood green was officially opened last weekend by a host of world stars from the world of bowls, boxing and politics.

World and Commonwealth star Ellen Falkner with Jamie and Natalie Chestney entertained the guest with a display of skills with their brightly coloured Aero Bowls, before the green was officially opened by secretary of state for Wales and Vale MP Alun Cairns, and Barry’s favourite son, Lee Selby, current World IBF title holder.

Alun Cairns spoke positively about the work that had been done at the club over the winter and how he valued the work that Barry Athletic were doing to engage with the local schools to implement a junior development programme.

Ellen Falkner, CEO of Aero Bowls, also launched the new Aero Bowls Academy a specific youth development programme for 11 to 16-year-old bowlers which will be held on the greens this summer at Barry Athletic.

Lee Selby performed the unveiling of the new scoreboard at the 4Wood Green before he and Alun, under the watchful eye of Ellen Falkner, competed against each other in a one end shoot out, with Alun narrowly coming out on top.

All members and guests then retired to the pavilion for a complimentary buffet generously contributed by Jim Morgan, a Commonwealth Gold medallist himself, and a life member of the club.

The club now looks forward to a full competitive season of bowls starting with a fixture against neighbours Penarth Windsor next Saturday.

The club will also be providing taster session and coaching for any new members during the week if anyone wanted to try out this great sport on the world class Barry green.