SINCE the unforgettable triumph of the women's curling team in the Winter Olympics interest in the sport has swept the nation.

And lately Preston Curling Club has been inundated with requests from people asking to take up the sport-- only to be told that if they join they'll have to play in Scotland.

Club secretary David Hills explains: "A lot of people have been ringing me enquiring about playing since all the publicity at the Olympics.

"We already have more than 40 members from all over the North West as we are the only club in the region.

"Young and old, men and women alike, it's a sport for everyone, and a lot of people who play bowls like it because it requires similar skills.

"But a lot are put off by the fact that we have to travel to a rink in Locherbie, south Scotland to play our matches and to practise.

"There is a rink in Queensferry in North Wales but it's actually better for us to travel to Locherbie because it is a better rink."

Despite the travel problems, however, the club has enjoyed considerable success. They recently won the prestigious William Kerr Club Championship Cup beating Dalbeattie curlers by 67 shots to 43.

And David's son Richard has played for the England junior team in the European and world championships.

The club is now desperately a rink closer to home where they can play.

"We asked to play at Blackburn Ice Rink but were turned down, basically because they make more money from skating and ice hockey.

The club is now hoping Altrincham Ice Rink will accommodate the sport, if a proposed redevelopment of the rink takes place.

"Wheelchair curling is very popular and a lot of youngsters enjoy it so we are hoping they could get lottery funding. It will be great boost for the sport around here if it happens.

"Until then we'll just have to carry on travelling to Scotland."

If you would like to join the club contact David Hills on 556209 or 717615.