A PRESTON man is heading for glory after making it through to the final of a prestigious bowling competition.

Now crown green bowler, Brian Duncan, 56, of Badgers Way, Walton-Le-Dale, is in with a chance of winning the £2,000 jackpot in the grand final of the Hamlet Bowling Championship at The Carr Mill, St Helens, this Sunday July 16.

The six-week event which is run in conjunction with Scottish and Newcastle is now in its ninth year and is recognised as one of the largest and most prestigious events in the UK.

And it has been no easy feat for the Bolton Tigers' bowler to make it to the last eight in the competition, winning the first round 21-14 and coming through Monday's round 21-19.

Bowling since the tender age of 12 and one of the championship's star players, Brian (pictured) said: "The Carr Mill is a particularly hard green to play on in my opinion, but nevertheless I always enjoy taking part in the event as it boasts great prize money and is a nice sociable competition." The contest generates a large level of public interest, with the final regularly attracting over 500 supporters.

And this year promises to be no different as Hamlet have invited TV presenter, Elton Welsby to introduce the event and present the winner's trophy.

Manager of the Carr Mill, Chris Harrison said: " The standard of play this year has been absolutely terrrific and the grand final will showcase some of the UK's best crown green bowlers. We are all looking forward to what will be a fantastic event."

Brian's grand final kicks off at 12 noon on Sunday (July 16) when he will play against Warrington man, John Taylor.