ONE of Cheshire’s oldest bowling greens has been saved from the threat of developers.

Last year, Rudheath bowling green was placed on the market by land-owners Punch Taverns, raising concerns with Rudheath Bowls Club that the green would have to make way for flats or houses.

Mike Roberts, managing director of Roberts’ Bakery, learned of the club’s plight and put them in touch with Rudheath and Witton Together (RWT), a Lottery-funded residents group that helps residents invest in their community.

RWT agreed to provide a £15,000 grant and also helped the club to secure a £5,000 interest-free loan to buy the land. Mr Roberts negotiated the sale and his company also paid the legal fees.

Dave Wilding, secretary for Rudheath Bowls, said: "With bowling greens up and down the country being closed and sold off, we were really worried when we first heard that the land was being put up for sale.

“We're home to 12 teams and our dedicated volunteers have put in so much effort to make this one of the best venues in the county.

“Without the support of Mike Roberts, RWT and the local community, the club without a green would undoubtedly have folded.

“We're now looking to the future with optimism and we have big plans. Anybody can come and join us and we actively encourage people to try bowls for the first time. It's great fun."

The 0.51 acre site was constructed in 1885 and paved the way for the Mid-Cheshire bowling league.

Rudheath Bowls the club were one of the founder members of the league.

Juliet Aitken, vice chairman for Rudheath and Witton Together, said: "When we were made aware of the possibility of Rudheath and Witton Together preventing the loss of a piece of the area’s local heritage and a popular community asset, the Board were more than willing to step in to help.

“Hopefully, thanks to Big Local and Rudheath and Witton Together, our community will have a bowling green to continue to enjoy for the foreseeable future."

For more information about Rudheath Bowls Club visit rudheathbowls.org

For more information about Rudheath and Witton Together visit rudheathandwitton.org.uk