Royal Watch News

Expert bowler Camilla

May 12, 2009, 10:01 GMT

Britain's Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, has been praised for her bowling skills.

The 61-year-old royal - the wife of Prince Charles - didn't let nerves get the better of her as she threw her first ball.

Camilla, who has never bowled before, was encouraged to take part in the celebrations at Box Bowls Club in Wiltshire where she opened their new £400,000 clubhouse.

Club Chairman Ian Collier, 65, said: "It was a very good start for someone who had never bowled before. Whenever anyone starts they are always the same - just nervous."

The duchess slipped off her shoes to a round of applause from the clubs 60 members before taking part.

She said: "I've never bowled before, but I'll give it a go!"

Although her first throw fell a little short, the second ball was a much better effort.

Club secretary Jean Collier, 63, said: "I thought she was great. In bowling terms, she bowled a good length. If you forget her first ball, the second one was jack-high (level with the jack) and that's very important.

"We say the three 'Ls' in bowling are line, length and luck. She was very relaxed and the ladies and gentlemen of the club will be delighted she bowled on our green."

Officially opening the Sport and Community Pavilion, Camilla added: "It's an absolutely wonderful building, and in this lovely village of Box it is just right. A few more villages should take example from you."

The club - which will share its new building with a youth club - is eight miles from her Georgian home Reymill House, new Lacock.