New Zealand rugby players have for years struck fear into their opponents by performing the Haka war dance before games.

Originally Maori tribes performed the ritual before going into war.

Learning the ropes but will it help results

Now little Budleigh Salterton bowls club, in the heart of Devon, is learning the ritual to intimidate opponents.

The club is being taught the intricacies of the haka from the nearby Marjons college hockey team.

Alban Chase, of Budleigh Salterton Games Club, said: "We have a lot of touring teams in the summer and it will be marvellous to do the haka before playing them.

"It will give them some fond memories of staid Budleigh Salterton."

How it should be done

But another member of the bowls team admitted: "I don't know if it will help us win any matches but it is keeping us fit."

New Zealand's All Blacks have traditionally danced the ritual before international games and they are now as famous for the haka as for the performances after the kick off.
 

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