BRITAIN'S leading skittles event, the Blackthorn British Championships, promises to be bigger and better this year.

In its third year, the BBSC, organised by the Shoot Out Club, is likely to attract its lar-gest entry yet and, with a first prize of £1000 for each of the three events (men's, women's and mixed teams), the country's leading exponents are expected to take to the alleys.

Blackthorn has given the championships an additional boost by renewing their sponsorship for 2006 and 2007.

Skittles, one of the most popular and fastest growing pub and club sports in the west of Eng-land and Wales, has long needed its own British Championships.

And, the success of the event over the last two years has helped to secure Blackthorn's continued involvement.

The closing date for entries for the 2006 event is April 19 and teams will initially play in reg-ional groups in May and June, followed by regional knockout matches in July and August.

The last 16 in each event make up the grand finals to be staged at the Sand Bay Holiday Village, Weston-super-Mare on Saturday, September 23.

For entry forms and further details ring 01803 883500 or check out the website at www.shootout-club.co.uk/bbsc.