THE pins are being lowered and the bowling balls polished as Hollywood Bowl has today confirmed the reopening of its Taunton venue.

The ten-pin bowling alley at Heron Gate will be reopening on Monday (May 17) to bring strikes and fun galore for families in Taunton.

It has been over four months since the sound of whooping guests and crashing strikes reverberated around ten-pin bowling centres across the country after they temporarily closed due to lockdown restrictions.

The entertainment complex is looking forward to getting the balls rolling again and welcoming back bowling fans, family and friends.

Daren Dignam, centre manager at Hollywood Bowl Taunton, said: “We’ve been counting down the days until we can reopen to bring back bowling to families in Taunton.

"Our unique leisure offering has been sorely missed as a way to unwind and have fun, so we’re thrilled to be reopening for guests to enjoy and make memories together once again.”

Hollywood Bowl Taunton has adopted a ‘Have Fun, Play Safe’ policy to ensure the centre’s safety measures are in line with all Government guidelines. This includes the installation of unique lane seating dividers which allow guests to enjoy their own space, as well as newly designed, distinctive balls which are designated to each lane.

Other measures include cleaning all balls, touch screens and seating after each customer group, appropriate spacing between amusement machines and dining seating, with social distancing measures and signage throughout each venue. Guests can also wear their own shoes to bowl in.

Food and drink can be pre-ordered from the in-centre diners and bars.

Guests are encouraged to make bookings ahead of their visit via the Hollywood Bowl website. Bookings will be limited to maximum group numbers in line with Government guidance.