The club was one of a number of local organisations to win funding support from the trust’s Coalfields Community Future Programme.

And to show its appreciation the club invited Pauline to throw the first bowl of the new season - which she did in style, almost landing the 100-years old bowl on the jack with her first ever delivery.

Club president Bernie Montague said, “We always invite someone who has helped or supported the club to deliver the first bowl and this year Pauline was the obvious choice.

“She was a tremendous help in securing our award for new benches and awnings, and they are a really important part of how we interact with our local community.

“We see ourselves as a community facility and like to invite local people to come along and watch some games in the hope that they will get bitten by the bowling bug and take up the sport.” Pauline said, “I felt it was a real honour to throw the first bowl, and I was delighted it turned out to be such a good shot!

“The club richly deserved their award which was made by the Crossgates Community Future Steering Group and recognises their key role in the local community.”