BOWLERS are encouraged to get their entries in early for this year's Cleckheaton Sports John Smith's Classic.

The competition, which boasts a first prize of £1,200 from a total prize pot of £5,225, is expected to fill up quickly.

In last year's final, local bowler Andrew Sykes, of Mirfield, beat favourite and a past winner Lee Lawton (Failsworth) 21-7, giving him the John Smiths Classic title and a place in the popular Champion of Champions at the Waterloo Hotel, Blackpool.

There is a highest break prize of £100, sponsored by Rydal Car Sales, and bowlers who win three rounds on their first visit will be on £100 and earn a place in the final sixteen.

Players bowl down to two from a field of 16 on each of the following dates (practise 5.30, start 6.00): Saturdays May 12th, 19th, 26th, June 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th.

The 16-man final takes place on Saturday, July 7, (5.00).

Send entries (£25 plus SAE with first and second choice of dates) to: Richard Bentley, Field House, 810 Halifax Road, Liversedge, West Yorkshire, WF15 8HG, call 01274 862993.

Cheques should be made payable to Cleckheaton Sports Club and telephone entries have seven days to confirm with fee.