Bowlers from all over Yorkshire and beyond headed to Helmsley last weekend for the town’s legendary ‘Whistlestop’ competition.

While traction engines huffed and chuffed at nearby Duncombe Park, 24 teams of three instead got down to the serious business of winning one of the county’s premier bowling events.

Each team plays five others against the clock, but despite the time pressure, the standard of bowling was extraordinary.

“We’ve got one of the finest greens in the area,” enthused Helmsley club chair Bill Jones.

“People travel hundreds of miles to test themselves on it.”

Sadly, it’s much harder to get locals to realise what an asset they have on their doorstep, he adds.

“We’re down to just 25 members, and without new blood, there’s a chance that we’ll one day become just a memory - like the traction engines.”

Next year’s ‘Whistlestop’ is safe, however, and the county’s top bowlers are already putting the date in their diaries.

No doubt the trio from Guisborough - this year’s winners - will be hoping for a repeat success after netting the £120 first prize kindly donated by Andrew Richardson Transport.

But why bowls?

“It’s one of the most underrated sports I’ve ever encountered,” says Bill.

“It’s skilful, strategic and easy to get the hang of.

“Its only problem is an outdated image, which pulse-racing events like the Whistlestop go a long way to correcting.”

Helmsley’s bowlers have also proved to be rather successful of late, including lifting the prestigious Ryedale Cup last year.

Anyone who is interested in joining in at Helmsley should contact Bill at hwjcreative@gmail.com.

All you need are flat shoes, with coaching and equipment provided at the club.