GIRL power is on a roll at Lady Alice Bowling Club after two promising young players were crowned champions.

Melanie Munro, 15, and Rachel Brooks, nine, won their respective age categories at the Greenock and District Bowling Association championship.

The talented duo, who both train with the junior section at Lady Alice BC, left their rivals green with envy as they triumphed.

Melanie, who lives in Roxburgh Street and attends Inverclyde Academy, said becoming the under 18 ladies title-holder was a very special moment for her as the competition took place at Grosvenor Bowling Club, where her late grandfather Allastair Maitland formerly played, while her dad Hugh is also a member there.

She said: "I'm so happy.

"I think my granddad would have been proud of me.

"I really enjoy bowls.

"It's an unusual sport for teenagers.

"My exams start in school this year but I think bowls will help me to relax, it will give me time away from studying."

Her mum Joyce added: "I'm chuffed to bits for her.

"It was a round robin competition and Melanie never lost a game.

"She won all her games and was delighted."

Also rising through the ranks is Rachel, nine, a pupil at St Patrick's Primary, who was crowned under 10 girls champion.

Her proud parents David and Pamela, of Glenview Terrace, say she thoroughly enjoys the sport.

David said: "I'm absolutely delighted for her to be doing so well, as she's only nine.

"Bowls is is a bit of fun and she enjoys it.

"She has been playing for two years."

David praised everyone at Lady Alice BC for being so supportive of the junior players.

He added: "It is a great club, they really encourage the youngsters.

"The adult members give up their spare time on a Saturday morning to show them how to play."

* The club are keen to thank Pyper's superstore in West Stewart Street for their sponsorship.