A group of teenagers stopped Snapchatting their Fortnite stories to one another and tried out a game more typically associated with the elderly.

On Thursday, July 12 Epping Bowls Club hosted try-out sessions for more than 60 Year 8 students from Epping St John’s School.

The opportunity fits into the school’s plans to offer alternative sports to students at the end of the school year.

Tom McGarr, head of sport, said: “We were delighted to be invited by Epping Bowls Club earlier this year and this was a ‘first’ for us both.

"The staff could see how much the students enjoyed themselves and we are keen to plan regular sessions in the future.”

The groups numbered15-18 students and all six rinks were in use with two club members at each rink showing the pupils the basics of bowls.

Albie, aged 13, said: “I thought it was quite good and I got better.”

Kamile, also 13, added: “I enjoyed it once I got the hang of it. It was good.”

Epping Bowls Club has been established since 1911 and has been keen to attract younger people to try the sport for themselves.

Mens team captain Ron Perryman said: “It was a pleasure to entertain Epping St John’s pupils to play bowls.

"They were enthusiastic and several showed lots of promise in a short space of time.

"We would like to do it again and hope we can establish something during our season April to September.”

Visit www.eppingbowlsclub.co.uk or contact Steve Baker on sgwbaker@btinternet.com to find out more.