THE York Open Bowls Tournament will make a comeback next month after a three-year absence.

A lack of volunteers has meant the event has not been held since 2013 but, under the leadership of a new committee, the 47th York Open will start on Sunday, September 10.

Tournament secretary John Crowe said: "Ever since the last tournament in 2013, there has been something missing from the local bowling scene.

"I’m delighted enough people have come forward to help relaunch it and the number of entries received suggests the players are also fully behind its return.

"There are few competitions that have the depth of history that the York Open does and so it’s only right that it’s back on the fixture calendar.”

The first discipline to take place is the Under-25 Singles at Copmanthorpe BC on September 10, with West Bank Park, York RI BC and Rowntree BC also being host venues that week.

The semi-finals and finals will be held at RI on Thursday, September 14, and Friday, September 15, respectively.

All past committee members and any past winners and runners-up are invited to attend the opening ceremony which will take place at Copmanthorpe at 9.15am, prior to the U25s action.

Further information is available from tournament secretary Crowe on 07729 412147, or by emailing yorkopenbowls@gmail.com or visiting yorkopenbowls.co.uk.

Sponsorship has been secured from Streamline Taxis, York St John University, Hayley Owen Funeral Directors, dc-architecture, Fluid Power Design Solutions, and York & District Indoor Bowls Club.