Delegates representing the 35 counties that form Bowls England have voted to bring the Men’s National Bowls Championships to Victoria Park, Leamington.

Victoria Park has been the home of women’s bowls since 1975. This decision will see the relocation of the Bowls England Headquarters to Leamington Spa, from its current base in Worthing, by 1st January 2014.

Councillor Stephen Cross, Portfolio Holder for Cultural Services says, "This is great news for the whole of Warwick district and cements our close and long working relationship with the sport of bowls. I would like to thank my predecessor, Councillor Susan Gallagher. We now have a strong team that can go forward and build on the good working relationships that have been established."

Tony Allcock MBE,  Bowls England Chief Executive added "The offer from Warwick District Council will secure the National Championships for this and future generations of bowlers, and give Bowls England a concrete base from which to develop our sport at all levels."

Championships, trials and events

Leamington will now dominate the bowls calendar in August each year, with the Men’s and Women’s National Championships bringing thousands of bowlers to the town during the 30 day period.

The addition of the men’s events is expected to bring a further 10,000 competitors and visitors to the district, spending an estimated £1m during their stay. Restaurants, hotels and tourist attractions across the district should benefit from this boost in income as visitors make the most of their time here. It is expected that the bowls calendar will fill up through the year, with more national and international trials, events and competitions.

Warwick District Council is working with Royal Leamington Spa Bowling Club, Bowls England and its contractors, The Landscape Group, to improve the bowls pavilion and the greens at Victoria Park in preparation for becoming the new home for Bowls England.