Stuart gets England call-up

The Bexhill-based prospect will be part of a 24-strong national set-up at next month's Four Nations Tournament. The 18-year-old, who will be playing with and against players up to seven years his senior, said: "I wasn't certain I'd get through, but I'm delighted."

Stuart and his England team-mates will face Ireland, Wales and Scotland at Leamington Spa on September 9-10.

He booked his place courtesy of a successful trial in Daventry on Sunday, last week, which was attended by 32 hopefuls.

Several fours games were staged at the Midlands venue and Stuart's rink won their match comfortably.

The Rosemount Bowls Club ace is unlikely to be short of practice come his international debut since he has a busy few weeks in prospect.

He will be playing in the Bexhill and Hastings Opens, plus for Rosemount in the county double fours final against Tarring Priory at Norfolk BC.

He has also joined the Professional Bowling Association to enable him to take part in September's World Indoor Championship qualifiers.

Stuart plans to take part in the singles and doubles where he will team up with Egerton Park Indoor Bowling Club colleague Kevin Carrie.