A POPULAR ten-pin bowling alley in Bury is to reopen following the coronavirus lockdown.

Hollywood Bowl at The Rock will reopen from August 1 for the first time since March.

Owners say stringent safety and cleaning measures have been put in place to help protect customers and staff.

Stephen Burns, chief executive at Hollywood Bowl Group, said: “Whilst it’s a little later than originally planned, we’re delighted to finally be able to open our centres again in England from August 1.

“The health and safety of our customers and team remains our priority.

"Whether it’s to bowl, enjoy the amusement areas, have a bite to eat or something to drink, we want to assure our customers that we are doing everything we can to create a safe and fun experience for families to return to.

"We look forward to welcoming them back through our doors.”

As the bowling alley reopens a number of new rules and cleaning measures have been introduced.

Customer capacity has been lowered to ensure social-distancing.

Groups of bowlers will be limited to six and customers will be asked to arrive slightly ahead of their booking time.

Upon entering, visitors will be expected to use hand sanitiser at cleaning stations.

Disposable plastic gloves will be optional for both bowlers and people playing on amusement games, and customers will be asked to wear their own shoes while bowling.

They may also be required to queue for entry and check-in before they play.

A reduced number of lanes will be in use, using only alternate lanes, to provide extra space between bowlers.

Amusement machines, as well as bar and diner seating, will also be spaced out.

Signage has been put up throughout the venue to remind customers to maintain a safe distance from others.

Enhanced cleaning of the alley will take place throughout each day ­— including bowling balls, lane seating and touch screens after every game.

In addition, all team members will undergo daily temperature checks and will be wearing PPE to ensure their own safety and that of customers.

Contactless payments are being encouraged but cash will be accepted, Hollywood Bowl said.

For more details visit www.hollywoodbowl.co.uk/have-fun-play-safe