BOWLERS from Staffordshire believe the game’s governing body needs a document that describes how players should behave on the green.

They will propose the introduction of a code of conduct when the British Crown Green Bowling Association (BCGBA) hosts its annual rules revision meeting in Northwich this weekend.

“It’s a first step towards us becoming flat green bowlers,” said Peter Kelly, the Mid-Cheshire Bowling Association’s representative at county level.

“If this change gets support, I feel it could be the beginning of the end for our sport."

Kelly, a former president of the game's governing body, told delegates at the league's annual meeting that he felt a code would be too restrictive.

The Wharton Cons member added: “Banter during games is part of our game, and we should keep it that way."

A draft of the code says bowlers ‘must not be unduly influenced or prevented from playing their own game,’ by spectators.

It also bans players from shouting.

A change needs a two-thirds majority of votes cast to become a rule.

The BCGBA rules revision meeting takes place at Winnington Park Recreation Club on Saturday, from 10am.