ENTRIES are now coming in steadily for the 61st annual Margate open bowls tournament to be held at the St George’s Lawns, Cliftonville, from June 21 to July 3.

Coming from Dublin for the men’s singles will be Ray Price who won the event in 1996.

The closing date for entries for all sections is February 27 and forms are available either from Thanet Indoor Bowls Centre or secretary Jim Harlow on 01227 760926.

Prize money is again expected to top £2,000 and Kent brewers Shepherd Neame will be among the sponsors for a second successive year.

Tournament committee chairman Bernard Allen said: "Our only real concern at the moment is the possible loss of one of our backers, the Grand Hotel, which has just been sold.

“That means we must now scout around for a replacement but at least time is on our side.”