Matt Western, MP for Warwick and Leamington Spa, tried his hand at bowling in Leamington ahead of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. He was joined by representative from Warwick District Council, Shakespeare’s England, Alistair Hollis, Bowls England Head of Sport Development and John McGuinness, our performance director.

The visit, arranged by Shakespeare’s England, which markets and promotes tourism across South Warwickshire and the surrounding areas, highlighted the venues and attractions as part of English Tourism Week.

Royal Leamington Spa BC will play host to the lawn bowls competition this summer, as the world’s best descend on the Midlands with one thing on their minds – winning gold! You can learn more about England’s side for the Games by clicking here.

Matt Western, tried his hand at bowling under the watchful eye of Hollis, who will combine his role with Bowls England alongside responsibilities as B2022 team leader and McGuinness, himself a former Commonwealth Games silver medallist.

Western said: “International focus is going to be on Birmingham 2022 and the bowling will not only highlight the very strong attractions of Leamington but will also support local hotels, guest houses and restaurants.

“Having had a go myself, I will be glad to merely be a spectator later this summer!”

The VisitEngland initiative is an annual celebration of the tourism industry, highlighting its economic importance to local economies and promoting the innovation, quality and range of products and services on offer to encourage more domestic breaks.

English Tourism Week, with ‘You’re Welcome’ as its strapline this year, is also sending a message that England’s tourism industry is ready to welcome visitors and provide a stand-out experience.