East Renfrewshire’s MP was on a roll as she visited a bowling club to give the sport a try.

Kirsten Oswald also used her trip to Giffnock Bowling Club to hand over a copy of a parliamentary motion she tabled in the House of Commons to recognise its 125th anniversary in 2020.

The club has been hosting Try Bowls events over the summer, which have boosted membership by around 50.

During her visit, Ms Oswald also heard about a range of activities organised by the club, including live music nights, quizzes and indoor carpet bowls.

Over the winter months, when no lawn bowling takes place, coffee mornings are held in the clubhouse to allow members to meet up.

Ms Oswald said: “It was great to finally be able to visit Giffnock Bowling Club to present a copy of my motion and take part in their Try Bowls event.

“The enthusiasm shown by club president Andy Burt and everyone I met made for a very enjoyable occasion and even my own attempt at bowling was great fun.

“I would urge more people to try bowls at Giffnock and the many other clubs across East Renfrewshire.

“I hear from so many experts that taking part in activities like bowls is really good for physical and mental health, particularly as people get older, and it was great to hear just how much that is recognised at Giffnock Bowling Club.

“I was pleased to recognise the club’s 125th anniversary in a motion to parliament and I wish Andy and his team all the best as they build the club up for many more years of success.”

Mr Burt said officials at the club are very aware of the impact that Covid lockdowns had had on the mental health of older members, many of whom live alone.

He added: “During 2020, we made sure we supported older members by regular phone contact from assigned ‘buddies’ and by regular email communication to our ‘silver surfers.’

“We know of the dark times people may have had during this terrible pandemic. Thankfully, we were able to allow some play on the greens last year, which was definitely beneficial to many, to be able to exercise and socialise, albeit at a distance.

“Our club has now passed its 125th anniversary and myself and our determined committee are all very passionate about what we provide in our community and want to see it last for another 125.”