A pub petanque team has unveiled two new pistes to cater for the sport’s “snowballing” demand.

The Parrot and Punchbowl in Aldringham celebrated the facility’s launch on Sunday when around 30 players turned out to make us of the new purpose built pitch.

Landlady Sheila Fleming said the two pistes had been built by the team to satisfy the sport’s growing popularity.

“We started a team about three or four years ago and it’s gradually snowballed from there – I think it’s the sociable element that appeals.”

The Parrot and Punchbowl is one of 44 Suffolk teams competing in the Adnams league and hopes its new pistes will enable it to host competitions of its own.

A taster session, introducing people to the sport, which is a form of boules, is being held at the pub from 11am to 2pm on April 16. “Just turn up and learn how to play,” said Ms Fleming.