NEW international-sized pétanque terrains have been officially opened in Gillingham.

Often known as boule, pétanque sees players aim to score points by throwing or rolling ‘boules’ closer to a small target ball (often called a jack) than opponents.

It is rising in popularity, and Dorset will host the 2023 Pétanque England Championships later this month.

But on April 23, two new terrains were unveiled at Gillingham’s Town Meadow by mayor, Cllr Sharon Cullingford.

The facilities – funded through Section 106 contributions from developers – will be on offer for free, with equipment available to hire from The Red Lion and The Phoenix Inn, with a £10 deposit.

READ MORE: Pétanque England Championships coming to Ferndown

Dozens attended the opening event, with a knock-out competition taking place to showcase the game, won by The Red Lion Kitties.

For more information, visit www.GillinghamDorsetPetanque.co.uk. There is also an online booking system in a bid to avoid double bookings.

“The day would not have been possible with the support of both The Phoenix Inn and The Red Lion Public House – thanks to them both,” said a spokesperson.

Gillingham mayor Cllr Sharon Cullingford says a few words to open the terrains