MEMBERS of a Derby bowls club will be wearing trendy new outfits when they compete in local leagues this summer, thanks to the University of Derby.

Last year, the university announced it was teaming up with the 97-year-old Derby West End Bowls Club, based just across from its Britannia Mill site, in Markeaton Street, to help it attract new players.

University fashion degree students will also give existing members a fresh look by designing a unique new club top for them.

They will show their designs at a social event at the university's arts, design and technology building, in Markeaton Street, Derby, at 6pm on Thursday. Bowls club members will pick the one they want.

Both the club management and the university are keen to see the eventual contract to make about 100 tops go to an East Midlands' firm, to benefit the region's textiles industry. They are already looking into suppliers.

Club president George Riley said: "The club is keen to support first-time players and encourage young people to get involved.

"It's also a healthy game for older people, and through the university scheme we are able to offer free membership for this year to all new players.

"Having a designer-made club top like this will be a real boon. It will look great when we're in competition and that can only be good for team spirit.

"If we can also help the regional economy in these difficult economic times, that would be a bonus."

Three fashion students will compete to be the club's top designer, with a £100 prize for the winner.

Fashion programme leader Fiona Hawthorne said: "This is just the kind of thing a lot of our students will be doing in their later careers, working to a design brief given by a client to produce a unique item of clothing.

Free taster sessions will be held in June and players should wear flat shoes. Bowls and footwear can be provided.

To book a place on one of the sessions, contact the club on Derby 292863.