LEOMINSTER'S Bridge Street Sports Centre has a new bowling mat in place in double-quick time after recent vandalism, writes RICHARD PRIME.

The old mat was slashed over the May Day bank holiday and the damage was too bad to be repaired, but manager David Paul wasted no time in getting things moving on a replacement.

"The insurance company's loss adjusters were here last Tuesday, I received the agreement to go ahead and replace the mat on the Wednesday and the new mat was laid on the Thursday and Friday," said Mr Paul.

"We're delighted that we got such a quick response but not that we had to go through all this in the first place."

Mr Paul said that income at the troubled centre was up in April and, although a couple of events were cancelled in May, things were looking good for the coming weeks.

"We've got a big screen television coming in ready for the start of Euro 2000," said Mr Paul. "And we've redecorated the bar and brought in some new carpet and a three-piece suite to make a small lounge area. We've also got events planned on Friday and Saturday evenings at the beginning of June. There will be other events in July and if any clubs or organisations are looking for a venue to raise funds then I'd be happy to talk to them."

On the sporting front, a rounders league started last week and there are plans afoot to start a summer five-a-side soccer competition.

"Any teams wanting to take part should contact me on 01568 611172," said David Paul. "We're getting a good feedback and good responses. People have started to book events and now is the time to make a booking for the autumn, as dates are already going."