IT IS more than 400 years since Sir Francis Drake played his famous game of bowls on Plymouth Hoe before chasing the Spanish fleet down English Channel, and how he would marvel at the changes in his beloved sport.

It is no longer a pastime for the retired but a sport enjoyed by all ages.

This is graphically displayed today at Dorchester Bowls Club, which can boast of having no less than four generations actively involved in the full programme that exists 24/ 7, at the aptly named Armada Way venue.

Here bowls is played indoor at the six rink arena all year around, and as is supplemented by a full-sized council provided outdoor green in the summer months.

Great grandmother Julie Lines now blowing out 82 birthday candles, is an active member who plays regularly in a Tuesday League, and also attends the social “Spoons" sessions on Thursdays.

Daughter Sally Thorndale–Siwek and granddaughter Nikki Thorndale-Siwek, both bowl in the successful Thursday Evening Business League, as squad members of Battens Belles.

This venture inaugurated by club chairman Colin Lawley began three years ago and is supported by leading businesses in the town.

Julie also has three great, grandchildren enjoying the club’s Junior Bowls Academy.

Twelve-year-old Emma, Ellen, 10, and their seven-year-old brother William enjoy their bowls as much as great grandma Julie, at the after school Monday sessions.

Ellen is one of club's promising young prospects and has now been invited to the regular meetings organised by the recently formed Dorset Bowls Youth Academy, along with two other Dorchester juniors – 10-year-old Joseph Aslett, and Jamie Roe, 14.

All three Dorchester youngsters will turn out for Dorset County Youth in a forthcoming friendly against Devon.

With coloured bowls, coloured shirts, and excellent indoor facilities at the Town Council-supported Sandringham Centre, what would Sir Francis make of it all?

One hopes he would be impressed to see the changes in the modern all age, family orientated sport.

If young William continues his love of bowls he could be peppering the jack for another 70 years.

Not many sports offer that opportunity.