A HISTORIC bowling club whose green lies between the stables at York Racecourse has agreed a new lease that protects its future.

Members of Dringhouses Bowling Club play on their green situated in a quadrangle between the horse boxes.

The club was officially opened in 1929 by Noel Terry, the former chairman of confectionery business Terrys of York.

The club’s first recorded victory came in 1935 against a team from York City Council.

The racecourse and club have agreed a 10-year lease, formalising a decades-old agreement for the club’s tenancy, with support from York-based Langleys Solicitors.

Chris Ward, head of Finance at York Racecourse, said: "We are proud to have such a historic bowling club within the racecourse grounds and have a long-standing agreement for the club to use the land for a nominal rent.

"We needed to put a more formal agreement in place that documents both parties’ obligations to one another. We look forward to continuing our partnership as the club approaches its centenary."

Raymond Baggaley, secretary of Dringhouses Bowling Club, said: "The club enjoys an unusual but charming location and has grown to include a number of men’s, women’s and mixed teams.

"The green is in use most days between May and August and we’re always on the lookout for new members to enjoy our facilities.

"The new lease is important as it protects our future. We had an informal arrangement for several decades but it is important to have a robust contract that documents rules and responsibilities."

The idea of locating a bowling club amid the stables was first conceived by Colonel Wilkinson CBE, who was clerk of the course to the York Race Committee.

Amy Taylor, solicitor in the commercial property team at Langleys, said: "Dringhouses Bowling Club has a fascinating history and a truly unique location amid the stables. We were pleased to help the Racecourse draw up a new lease agreement that ensures bowling club members can continue to enjoy the facilities long into the future."