The famous name of Summertown lives on in the bowls world - but by the slenderest of threads.

Summertown were in danger of folding after 85 years, having not played at their Keble College Sports Ground green on Woodstock Road for a year after losing their car park.

But around 20 members agreed at the club's annual meeting at the St John Ambulance Brigade, Kidlington to preserve the name in the hope that one day it may rise to its former glories.

However, Summertown, who have produced a host of champions over the years, are dropping 'bowls club' from their title and will no longer be affiliated to the English Bowling Association or the Oxfordshire Bowling Association.

They have already withdrawn from the Oxford & District League and won't be represented in any Oxfordshire cup competitions next year.

John Henwood, who will continue as secretary, said: "It is a bit disappointing, but what can you say. We are nearly dead and buried, but we are desperately hanging in there."

On the indoor scene, Summertown plan to enter the Brackley Knock-out and they also hope to arrange friendlies against other local club.

But it will be a different story in the summer.

"Outdoors, all the players are going to alternative clubs for the time being and we will wait to see if the phoenix of Summertown can rise again," explained Henwood.

For Summertown to resume playing outdoors, Henwood said it would mean another club running into problems for a green to become available.

"We are to a degree grasping at straws," he said. "It has got to be detrimental for another side for Summertown to pick up really.

"The important thing is to keep the name going."

Summertown also elected Peter Astle as treasurer and Barry Osborne as match secretary/captain, while Peter Sargeant will be assistant secretary.