A look at questions raised with me recently by both youngsters and novices taking up the game and my answers. Any views that you may have would be welcome.

Q: A bowling green is a club’s biggest asset but do you think that those using it are in the main, respectful that this is the case?

A: In the main yes but I can never understand why some individuals who take pride in playing on their own well prepared green do so when the surrounds are neglected and the ditches around the green are full of grass and weeds.

Q: Are there times when you see a green misused?

A: Yes that is the case sadly and it always amazes me that there are players at all levels in the game who drop bowls from a height of a metre or more on to the green before starting a game therefore risking damage to the surface while at the same time asking all and sundry to stop their bowl if they strike in case it gets damaged.

Q: What are your thoughts on how referees operate in the game?

A: I often question why certain referees and measurers at top events and merit finals find it difficult to keep up with play even when there is only one end on the green and one other thought I would like to see more encouragement given to enlisting top players at some stage taking up refereeing.

Q: How important is it to have good measuring and marking?

A: Both aspects of the game are very important and I still see those marking cards doing so on the basis that if a player fails to score they leave the column blank until he scores again which in my view is not how it should be done. On measuring, the governing body has strict guidelines to be followed which do not include players trying to decide who is shot by using their feet.

Q: What are your views on the selection of home greens for county matches?

A: This is always a thorny problem and most counties have those who have different views on the subject. There are many cases of the wrong decision being the down fall of the county in that season. There are those who believe that a tricky home venue is always the answer but I believe what is more important is the selection of players to be able to play the green selected based on their knowledge of that green.

Q: The number of individual events particularly in the Midlands is no longer what it was is there a way forward?

A: We are well known in the Midlands for being forward thinking off the green but I can’t help thinking that there is room for some forward thinking club or organiser to consider running an event with a £25 entry fee 41 up or must you have to be born north of Stoke to believe the idea has some merit.

Q: What is your current perception of the coverage of the game in the media and how could it be improved?

A: This is my hobby horse, all must learn the importance of publicity. I am often in the situation of answering people in the game who ask me why I have not written or mentioned a particular event and they look with amazement when I reply has anyone supplied me with the information? Some involved have their own press officers and dealing with one source is a plus but that should not detract from everyone playing his or her part.