Gillingham now has a new recreational facility – two terrains on which to play pétanque.

The official opening of the two terrains at the Town Meadow was performed by town mayor Councillor Sharon Cullingford accompanied by the deputy town mayor Councillor Barry Von Clemens on Sunday 23 April.

The event was well attended by approaching 40 people and a knock out competition took place with The Red Lion Kitties emerging the eventual winners.

It was a little ironic that the event took place on St Georges Day as this game originates in France. Pétanque – often called ‘boules’ – is a simple game which is totally inclusive and can be played by persons of all ages, from three-year-olds to those who have many decades under their belts and by persons with disabilities of all kinds.

The use of the terrains is free and organisers – Gillingham Dorset Pétanque – say that for those who do not have equipment, boules, including plastic ones for children, and scoreboards are available on loan (subject to a cash deposit of just £10 refundable upon return of the equipment) from either The Phoenix Inn or The Red Lion Public House.

Lots of information about the facility and the game can be found at www.GillinghamDorsetPetanque.co.uk. There is also an online booking system that organisers hope will avoid ‘double bookings’, plus links to the group’s Facebook Page – join the page to keep up to date on news.

The group thanked both the Phoenix Inn and the Red Lion for their support.