Spring sunshine provided the perfect backdrop as people of all ages were invited to try their hand at bowls.

Active Cumbria - part of the the county council’s health and wellbeing service - was supported by twoclubs as it staged a bowls roadshow in Carlisle city centre.

Members of Carlisle Subscription Bowling Club were joined by those from Wetheral to promote the sport and encourage more people to take up the famous pastime.

"I think there's a bit of a misconception that it's something played mostly by older people," Carol Smith, a member of Wetheral Bowling Club said.

"It's not the case at all though, we want people of all ages to come forward and start playing. You don't have to necessarily be older.

"You can also play it indoors if you want, as well. When the weather is warmer though it's much better to play outside."

Carol, who has been playing for nearly 20 years, is also a coach and has taught youngsters at Stanwix Primary School.

"It's something that they've enjoyed doing when I've been there," she said.

"One of the reasons is why it's so fun is because it does get a bit competitive once you've got started."

Having a go were brothers Lucas and Hayden Cowan, from Harraby.

"I enjoyed it, it was fun," said six-year-old Lucas.

Although he has tried his hand at ten-pin bowling before, it was the first time that Hayden, eight, had played carpet bowls. "It's fun and I'd like to play more," he said.

Becky Underwood, of Active Cumbria, said that the group is currently working with eight clubs around the county to promote bowls as a sport.

"We've got a number of 'Play Bowls' days taking place at clubs across Cumbria," she said.

"Some clubs are seeing a drop in the number of members and we're trying to get as many people as possible playing - it doesn't matter what age you are.

"It'd be great to get more young people involved in the sport."