Teen with £2,400 of ten pin bowling balls gets 24 strikes in a row

Alex Pates who has scored 24 strikes on the trot at Namco Tenpin Bowling Centre. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Copyright: Archant 2018)

Most people will only go to a bowling alley for a birthday party or to keep their children occupied in bad weather.

But for one Norfolk teenager, bowling is not only his passion it is his career aspiration - and he is celebrating a striking landmark already.

Alex Pates scoring a maximum 300 twice in consecutive games - an achievement that most people will never get near to.

The 18-year-old from Attleborough is a widely-known name in competitive ten pin bowling, after committing more than 10 years to the game.

He has successfully played for England, has been sponsored by local businesses and travelled across the UK to compete.

Alex said: 'It was one of the biggest goals ever when I had my first 300 and then had another game and got 300.

'this is the first time in 10 years since that has been done.'

He added: 'I was going for something called a 900 game, which is all your three games added up. That's only been achieved 20 times in the world.'

The groundskeeper said he was ready to pack his bags and become a part of the Professional Bowling Academy (PBA).

'I would have to leave my job or take leave and go over to America and start bowling,' he said.

'They offer scholarships and train you. I want to do that.'

Alex spends six hours a week at the bowling alley and is a part of five leagues at his local centre in Bowthorpe.

He owns 12 bowling balls worth £2,400 and wears through his bowling shoes within months.

He said: 'This isn't even my second home, this is my first home - I am here all the time.'

Alex has calluses on his right thumb from years of playing and has become so knowledgeable about the game, he can sense when the alley is not oiled enough or has become dry.

Just from watching someone bowl, Alex can pick up their technique and how to improve it.

He said: 'Most people don't keep their arm straight when they follow through, just like when you brush your hair - that's what I was taught.'