Bowling in Ayrshire

Scotland welcomes the world's greatest bowlers to its shores next year as hundreds make their way from around the globe to compete in the biggest bowling tournament of them all - the World Bowling Championships.

Ayrshire, a land of glorious scenery and home to 90 Scottish Bowling Association clubs, will be centre stage for the world's bowling fraternity. This beautiful district of Scotland undoubtedly knows a thing or two about bowls and will therefore be a fitting host for the championships.

Ayrshire is also the birthplace of Scotland's best-loved poet, Robert Burns. Visitors can tour the area and get to know a little more about one of the world's most famous bards. King Robert the Bruce is also a son of Ayrshire and some of the very first golf courses in the world were constructed here. This historical part of Scotland has much to offer, then, so your visit away from the bowls arena should prove fruitful.

Those of you who will come from afar in 2004 will relish every minute of your stay. Castles and monuments are dotted in and around Ayrshire's beautiful rolling countryside, making a visit with the family all the more special.

The magnificent Northfield Bowling Complex, with its five first-class competition greens, host to the British Isles Bowling Council Championships and Home International Series, among many other tournaments and events, was the dwelling for the championships in 2004.

The last time the eyes of the bowling world were on Scotland was back in 1984, in Aberdeen, and on the back of that resounding success Ayrshire intends to keep up the tradition.

The enthusiasm of Scotland's bowling community will fashion an atmosphere for the world to savour. So whether you're a spectator or a player, the World Bowling Championships will live in the mind of all those fortunate enough to pay a visit.

Come along and see for yourself, and appreciate more than just great bowling.