Three English pairs progressed through the preliminary rounds of the World Indoor Bowls Championships ©World Indoor Bowls

Three English pairs progressed through the preliminary rounds of the World Indoor Bowls Championships in Norfolk.

Three preliminary matches took place in the men's pairs competition at Potters Leisure Resort, with England triumphing in all three. 

Mark Royal and Robert Paxton were the first winners, defeating Colin Walker and Ronnie Duncan of Scotland 10-5, 15-0. 

In the second match, Paul Maynard and James Rippey battled against Les Gillett and Jason Greenslade of Wales 8-5, 4-6, 2-1.

Mark Royal of England triumphed alongside Robert Paxton against Colin Walker and Ronnie Duncan of Scotland in the preliminary round of the men's pairs ©World Indoor Bowls
Mark Royal of England triumphed alongside Robert Paxton against Colin Walker and Ronnie Duncan of Scotland in the preliminary round of the men's pairs ©World Indoor Bowls

Mark Dawes and Jamie Chestney then won 7-6, 8-1 against Marty Trainor and Andrew Duncan of Ireland. 

There will be one more preliminary match tomorrow, before the men's pairs quarter-finals begin. 

It is the 22nd year that the tournament is being held in the resort's 1,100 seat International Arena.