SOUTH East Cambs MP Jim Paice said he was “delighted” with the £50,000 boost handed to the City of Ely Bowls Club this week as part of the Olympic legacy.

Sport England this week revealed that more than 1,000 local sports projects across the country have received National Lottery funding through Inspired Facilities, which is part of the £150 million Places People Play legacy programme.

The City of Ely Bowls Club will receive £50,000 of National Lottery funding to upgrade facilities at the club to ensure it’s continued success at national level and to maintain it’s commitment to the local community in providing a focus for the sport of indoor bowls.

The funding will provide for a new roof over the playing area and will enable the club to continue its drive to build membership and to encourage players of all ages and ability to participate in the sport.

Sir Jim said this week: “It is right that the impact of the Olympic and Paralympic Games should continue to reverberate around our local communities in supporting local sports clubs and so I am delighted to hear that The City of Ely Bowls Club is to benefit from £50,000 of legacy funding.

“This money will ensure Ely Bowls Club remains nationally competitive as well as providing opportunities for the local community to take up a new sport, and, as such, will keep the spirit of the Games alive”

The City of Ely Bowls Club is one of 310 projects across England receiving lottery investment from the third round of the Inspired Facilities fund and one of more than 1,000 to benefit overall, with the milestone being achieved one year ahead of schedule.

Club chairman, Brian Roberts, added: “We are delighted to have secured this investment. The support of Sport England’s Inspired Facilities funding will enable the club to enjoy the security it so vitally needs for the foreseeable future.

“We are already one of the most successful clubs in the country at a competitive level but we are also committed to a long term policy of providing a centre for indoor bowls in this area and wish to encourage all elements of the local community to experience our sport at every opportunity.

“The funding will enable us to provide a comfortable and enjoyable environment for all.”