FREE BOWLS sessions for older people have launched in the Vale of Glamorgan.

The Vale of Glamorgan Council’s Healthy Living Team has funded weekly bowls sessions at Peterston-Super-Ely Village Hall.

With funding from Sports Wales, the Healthy Living team allocated Golden Fund money for the project which aims to combat loneliness and promote independence and physical activity in those aged 60+.

The Golden Fund is a competitive grant fund available to organisations willing to offer new activities for people aged 60+. The scheme focuses on improving physical activity and sport opportunities for communities of highest need across the county.

The sessions have been in development since Golden Activator volunteer, John Barnes, recognised an opportunity for a recurring social sport for residents in Peterston.

Mr Barnes has worked closely with the Health Living Team and led the first of the sessions on September 30.

Cabinet Member for Leisure, Sport and Wellbeing, Cllr Gwyn John, said: “The scheme will provide a fantastic opportunity for residents to socialise whilst partaking in a sport.

“It’s very important that we address issues surrounding health and loneliness that we know to be prevalent in the 60+ age group, and I’m sure that these sessions will make a real difference in the community.

“Well done to everyone involved!”

The weekly bowls sessions will be at Peterston-Super-Ely Village Hall every Friday from 9.30am to 12.30pm. They are available to all Vale residents aged 60+