Dennis and SISIS Seminar | March 2024Dennis Mowers and SISIS Machinery were onsite at Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa to hold their latest Bowls Green Maintenance seminar in March. We spoke with John Wilson from South Kilworth BC, Leicestershire to hear his thoughts on the insightful session. Read More
Mark Piper | Greenkeeper of the Year 2023We speak with Mark Piper from Maldon BC in Essex was awarded the Greenkeeper of the Year award at our third annual Awards! Mark Piper orchestrated a remarkable transformation of Maldon BC green, rescuing it from a state of disrepair to Read More
Gilly Meadows | Unsung Hero 2023We speak with Gilly Meadows from Dursley BC in Gloucestershire was awarded the Unsung Hero award at our third annual Awards! Gilly has been a stalwart of the club's committee for an impressive 18 years. Gilly's dedication and vast knowledge Read More
A conversation with Mo Monkton, Sandy Hazell and Nicola BoweThis #InternationalWomensDay, we speak to three members of our Performance Team in Mo Monkton, Sandy Hazell and Nicola Bowe. They share their role models in life, inspiring women they've met and what bowls can do to get more women enjoying the Read More
Women's Fours Gold Medallists | Team of the Year 2023We speak with Amy Pharaoh, Sophie Tolchard and Lorraine Kuhler who, alongside Jamie-Lea Marshall, sealed an outstanding Gold medal in the Women's Fours at the 2023 World Championships. They were awarded Team of the Year at our Awards for their inspiring Read More
Ilfracombe BC | Club of the Year 2023We speak with Noel Greaney from Ilfracombe BC alongside Bowls Devon Men's President Bill Smith and Bowls Devon Women's President Sandra Andrews. Ilfracombe were awarded the Club of the Year award at our third annual Awards! With the real possibility Read More
Bowls England Junior Performance Day | July 2023100 junior bowlers were at Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa, on Sunday 9th July for our Junior Performance Day. Each of them showcased their talent in front of our Performance Team, led by Mo Monkton, and enjoyed insightful sessions with International Read More
Shanklin | Team of the Year winner 2023We speak with Phil Brooks of Shanklin Bowls Club, Isle of Wight. Shanklin A Team scooped the Team of the Tear award at our third annual Awards! Shanklin etched a remarkable chapter in its history, culminating in a triumphant 2023 Read More
Bowls' Big Weekend 2023 on BBC Breakfast😳 "I think I'm about to be embarrassed on National television!" Here's our Bowls' Big Weekend feature on BBC Breakfast in May 2023, when reporter Matt Graveling visited Connaught Bowls Club, to chat about the weekend, why bowls is so special Read More
How bowls has helped my mental health | Stewart Angus' story🗣️ “I haven’t thought about anything – I haven’t thought about drinking, drugs – the only thing I thought was “what am I going to do with this bowl!”” This is Stewart Angus' story. After mental health and alcohol battles, Stewart Read More
Being Bowls England President | An interview with Deepak TannaWe sit down for an interview with Bowls England President Deepak Tanna. As the first President of Indian heritage, he tells us the importance of diversity in bowls and shares how special Celebration Matches are to clubs.
Aviva National Finals | Live Coverage HighlightsWe were treated to a great spectacle of dazzling action at the 2023 Aviva National Finals! 🤩 Here's a look back at some of the highlights featured in our live coverage 🎥 #AvivaNationalFinals
Lewis King- Men's Singles Champion InterviewWe sat down with Lewis King (Appleyard BC, Kent) to speak about his victory at the Aviva National Finals and being crowned Men's Singles Champion.
Aviva National Finals | Top Club & Middleton Cup Finals HighlightsWelcome to the Aviva National Finals 2023 live from Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa! Here's highlights from the prestigious Middleton Cup final and highly coveted Top Club Final. All streamed matches are available to watch, for free, on our official Read More
Tom Holmes- Men's Junior Singles Champion InterviewTom Holmes (Ross-on-Wye BC, Herefordshire) won his first Men's Junior Singles at this year's Aviva National Finals and is competing in the U25 British Isles International squad having been named captain of the Men's squad. After his trophy presentation Tom Read More
Emily Kernick- Women's Junior Singles Champion InterviewEmily Kernick (Sherwood Park BC, Warwickshire) battled her way through the Women's Junior Singles competition at the Aviva National Finals. After Emily's win in the Women's Junior Pairs, she has now added the Women's Junior title to her collection. After Read More
Aviva National Finals | Junior Singles HighlightsWelcome to the Aviva National Finals 2023 live from Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa! Here's highlights from the Men & Women's Junior Singles. Bowls England is delighted that all 18 days of the Aviva National Finals (10 – 27 August) Read More
Aviva National Finals 2023The Aviva National Finals has produced some memorable moments. With scintillating sunshine and brilliant bowls there's no where else to spend your summer!
Aviva National Finals | Day 10-14 HighlightsWelcome to the Aviva National Finals 2023 live from Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa! Here's highlights from Days Ten-Fourteen. Bowls England is delighted that all 18 days of the Aviva National Finals (10 – 27 August) will be streamed online, Read More
Aviva National Finals | Day 7-9 HighlightsWelcome to the Aviva National Finals 2023 live from Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa! Here's highlights from Days Seven, Eight & Nine Bowls England is delighted that all 18 days of the Aviva National Finals (10 – 27 August) will be Read More
Johns Trophy - Interview with Sandra AndrewsGreat Granddaughter of Carla Johns, Sandra Andrews, talks about her connection to the Johns Trophy, and the fabulous story of its beginnings...
Aviva National Finals | Day 5 HighlightsWelcome to the Aviva National Finals 2023 live from Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa! Here's highlights from Day 5. Bowls England is delighted that all 18 days of the Aviva National Finals (10 – 27 August) will be streamed online, Read More
A CLASSIC NATIONAL FINAL | Men's Pairs Final 2023Relive extended highlights of a final that had everything! Steve Gunnell and two times British champion Edward Morris of Essex face Joe Dawson & Nick Wardle of Leicestershire in the 2023 Aviva National Finals. Bowls England is delighted that Read More
Aviva National Finals | Day 1-3 HighlightsWelcome to the Aviva National Finals 2023 live from Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa! Here's highlights from the National Men's Singles from Day One, Two and Three. Bowls England is delighted that all 18 days of the Aviva National Finals (10 Read More
Dennis and SISIS Seminar | March 2024Dennis Mowers and SISIS Machinery were onsite at Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa to hold their latest Bowls Green Maintenance seminar in March. We spoke with John Wilson from South Kilworth BC, Leicestershire to hear his thoughts on the insightful session.
Mark Piper | Greenkeeper of the Year 2023We speak with Mark Piper from Maldon BC in Essex was awarded the Greenkeeper of the Year award at our third annual Awards! Mark Piper orchestrated a remarkable transformation of Maldon BC green, rescuing it from a state of disrepair to become one of the finest in Essex. Taking charge three years ago, he swiftly addressed issues of bare patches, moss, and weeds, astonishing everyone with the immediate progress. Mark’s continuous efforts have elevated the club’s standing, making it a sought-after venue for high-quality bowls competitions. The green’s reputation has grown to the extent that Eastern Counties and Essex Balcomb Trophy matches have been proposed for 2024 — a testament to the progress achieved in a short time. Membership has surged by 30%, welcoming bowlers of all levels, including newcomers attracted by the superior playing surface. Mark’s accomplishment was duly acknowledged by the local authority, honouring him with an award from the town council’s environmental committee for his environmentally sustainable practices. Mark’s maintenance program prioritises organic methods to enhance the green’s health and resist diseases without relying on synthetic chemicals. His innovative and environmentally friendly approach earned the club significant funding for top-quality greenkeeping equipment, securing almost £9,000 from the local recycling centre’s community welfare fund. Mark’s dedication extends beyond the club; he willingly shares his knowledge with other greenkeepers, conducts demonstrations, and provides guidance to those seeking to improve their facilities. His positive relationship with the local school, offering work experience and training programs, exemplifies his commitment to nurturing the next generation of greenkeepers.
Gilly Meadows | Unsung Hero 2023We speak with Gilly Meadows from Dursley BC in Gloucestershire was awarded the Unsung Hero award at our third annual Awards! Gilly has been a stalwart of the club's committee for an impressive 18 years. Gilly's dedication and vast knowledge of the club and county lifecycle have played a pivotal role in shaping the success and vibrancy of Dursley BC. Currently serving as Club Secretary, Ladies' Captain, Fixture Secretary, Men's and Ladies' County and League delegate, Safeguarding Officer, Level Two coach, Fundraising Officer, Grants and PR Officer, Ladies' Selector, and administrator of various club platforms, Gilly's involvement spans a multitude of crucial roles. Her organisational skills are astonishing, evident in the creation of a regular Event Log document and various templates that aid committee members in managing tasks efficiently. Gilly's project management skills, coupled with her detailed knowledge of club operations, constitution, and CASC compliance, ensure the club's compliance. Beyond her administrative prowess, Gilly is an avid fundraiser and networker, securing significant donations through her motto, "If you don't ask, you don't get." Her efforts have resulted in grants exceeding £38,000, funding vital club projects. Gilly also gets involved in maintenance projects such as hand-painting the wood treatment onto a new pavilion. Gilly's passion extends to coaching, reaching Level Two under the Coach Bowls scheme. She coaches up to county level and actively contributes to the County Youth Development squad training. Gilly is a talented player, reaching the 2022 Ladies' Pairs National Finals and participating in various county championships. Gilly's skills in photography and graphic design enhance Dursley's image. Her impact goes beyond the sport, emphasizing mental well-being, reducing isolation, and championing social events. Gilly's infectious enthusiasm and thorough planning of Dursley's open days and fun events bring in new members and raise awareness of the club. As Dursley Bowls Club approaches its 75th anniversary in 2024, Gilly is already planning exciting events. Her dedication to inclusivity, knowledge-sharing, and tireless efforts to secure resources for the club, including an electric wheelchair, is exemplary.
Highlights | A conversation with Mo Monkton, Sandy Hazell and Nicola BoweThe best bits from our conversation with three members of our Performance Team in Mo Monkton, Sandy Hazell and Nicola Bowe. They share their role models in life, inspiring women they've met and what bowls can do to get more women enjoying the sport. Watch the conversation in full - youtu.be/hoYBPk0hkSk #InternationalWomensDay
A conversation with Mo Monkton, Sandy Hazell and Nicola BoweThis #InternationalWomensDay, we speak to three members of our Performance Team in Mo Monkton, Sandy Hazell and Nicola Bowe. They share their role models in life, inspiring women they've met and what bowls can do to get more women enjoying the sport.
Women's Fours Gold Medallists | Team of the Year 2023We speak with Amy Pharaoh, Sophie Tolchard and Lorraine Kuhler who, alongside Jamie-Lea Marshall, sealed an outstanding Gold medal in the Women's Fours at the 2023 World Championships. They were awarded Team of the Year at our Awards for their inspiring efforts. #InternationalWomensDay | #IWD2024
Ilfracombe BC | Club of the Year 2023We speak with Noel Greaney from Ilfracombe BC alongside Bowls Devon Men's President Bill Smith and Bowls Devon Women's President Sandra Andrews. Ilfracombe were awarded the Club of the Year award at our third annual Awards! With the real possibility of closure, Ilfracombe not only survived by excelled throughout the 2023 season, becoming a shining example of resilience and growth. Losing key players, battling with low membership, and facing financial challenges, the club’s turnaround is a testament to the remarkable efforts of individuals like Neil Mugleston, the club captain, and Barry Gifford, the club president and the club committee. Within a year, they transformed the club into a vibrant community hub with 83 playing members and a target of 100 by the new year. Their success lies in a one-club philosophy, embracing fun, friendship, fitness, and well-being. They managed to bridge the generational gap, shifting the average age from mid-60s to mid-40s, with an equal mix of genders. The introduction of various playing sessions, morning to evening, helped retain outdoor members through the winter, doubling membership income. The club’s competitive yet friendly approach, only losing one friendly match, attracted positive attention. Drawing in three young men and rekindling interest in another, all appreciating the club’s friendly and family-oriented values. The club’s success story has resonated beyond, with other clubs seeking their advice and support. They’ve not only revitalised the club internally but also reached out to the community, inviting various groups to use the facilities and encouraging local businesses to engage. Their proactive approach in sponsorship, social media, and community involvement has transformed the club’s image from a hidden gem to the talk of the town. The club’s commitment to inclusivity and camaraderie is further exemplified by their fundraising for a junior player in need of new bowls. Their journey from near-closure to a thriving, inclusive community hub showcases the transformative power of change and a forward-thinking approach in ensuring the future success of the club.
Bowls England Junior Performance Day | July 2023100 junior bowlers were at Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa, on Sunday 9th July for our Junior Performance Day. Each of them showcased their talent in front of our Performance Team, led by Mo Monkton, and enjoyed insightful sessions with International players. We spoke with some of them to discover how they got into bowls.
Shanklin | Team of the Year winner 2023We speak with Phil Brooks of Shanklin Bowls Club, Isle of Wight. Shanklin A Team scooped the Team of the Tear award at our third annual Awards! Shanklin etched a remarkable chapter in its history, culminating in a triumphant 2023 season. The team’s success was not an overnight achievement but a result of years of dedication and an unwavering desire to succeed. Setting ambitious goals for the year, the team aspired to reach the National Finals in both the Men’s Club Two Fours and Men’s Top Club competitions. Recognising the challenges posed by their geographical location, the team embraced the necessity of travel, displaying unwavering commitment even at the expense of work commitments. The 2023 season turned out to be a dream come true, with the full support of club members and the management committee playing a crucial role. They secured the Men’s Club Two Fours title and were runners-up in the Top Club. The team is a testament to the inclusive nature of bowls, with players spanning from their mid-20s to mid-70s. Comprising individuals from various walks of life, they share amazing camaraderie and desire to continually improve and succeed.
Bowls' Big Weekend 2023 on BBC Breakfast😳 "I think I'm about to be embarrassed on National television!" Here's our Bowls' Big Weekend feature on BBC Breakfast in May 2023, when reporter Matt Graveling visited Connaught Bowls Club, to chat about the weekend, why bowls is so special and have a roll-up against Commonwealth Games bronze medallist, Craig Bowler.
How bowls has helped my mental health | Stewart Angus' story🗣️ “I haven’t thought about anything – I haven’t thought about drinking, drugs – the only thing I thought was “what am I going to do with this bowl!”” This is Stewart Angus' story. After mental health and alcohol battles, Stewart found bowls at Seaford BC in Sussex. In his first season, he went on to win the Club Pairs and hasn't looked back since! On #BlueMonday, it's important to remember that Mental Health matters every day. #MoreThanJustAGame
Being Bowls England President | An interview with Deepak TannaWe sit down for an interview with Bowls England President Deepak Tanna. As the first President of Indian heritage, he tells us the importance of diversity in bowls and shares how special Celebration Matches are to clubs.
Aviva National Finals | Live Coverage HighlightsWe were treated to a great spectacle of dazzling action at the 2023 Aviva National Finals! 🤩 Here's a look back at some of the highlights featured in our live coverage 🎥 #AvivaNationalFinals
Lewis King- Men's Singles Champion InterviewWe sat down with Lewis King (Appleyard BC, Kent) to speak about his victory at the Aviva National Finals and being crowned Men's Singles Champion.
Aviva National Finals | Top Club & Middleton Cup Finals HighlightsWelcome to the Aviva National Finals 2023 live from Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa! Here's highlights from the prestigious Middleton Cup final and highly coveted Top Club Final. All streamed matches are available to watch, for free, on our official streaming platform. ➡️ https://bit.ly/ANF23Live Visit our website bowlsengland.com to keep up to date with all the latest news Social media coverage is available on Bowls England’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram sites.
Tom Holmes- Men's Junior Singles Champion InterviewTom Holmes (Ross-on-Wye BC, Herefordshire) won his first Men's Junior Singles at this year's Aviva National Finals and is competing in the U25 British Isles International squad having been named captain of the Men's squad. After his trophy presentation Tom spoke to Bowls England about how it felt to be Men's Junior Singles champion, ambitions of going to the Commonwealth Games and which England Men's player inspires him.
Emily Kernick- Women's Junior Singles Champion InterviewEmily Kernick (Sherwood Park BC, Warwickshire) battled her way through the Women's Junior Singles competition at the Aviva National Finals. After Emily's win in the Women's Junior Pairs, she has now added the Women's Junior title to her collection. After her win, Emily spoke to Bowls England about how it felt to be double champion, how she got into the sport and her England ambitions.
Aviva National Finals | Junior Singles HighlightsWelcome to the Aviva National Finals 2023 live from Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa! Here's highlights from the Men & Women's Junior Singles. Bowls England is delighted that all 18 days of the Aviva National Finals (10 – 27 August) will be streamed online, and available for everyone to view free of charge. Visit our official streaming platform ➡️ https://bit.ly/ANF23Live Visit our website bowlsengland.com to keep up to date with all the latest news Social media coverage is available on Bowls England’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram sites. Tickets to the National Finals start at just £4 for adults and £1 for Under 18s offer a full day of top-class sporting action. Event passes are available and all tickets are cheaper in advance. Under 3s enter free of charge. Get your Aviva National Finals 2023 tickets ➡️ https://bit.ly/AvivaNF23
Aviva National Finals 2023The Aviva National Finals has produced some memorable moments. With scintillating sunshine and brilliant bowls there's no where else to spend your summer!
Aviva National Finals | Day 10-14 HighlightsWelcome to the Aviva National Finals 2023 live from Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa! Here's highlights from Days Ten-Fourteen. Bowls England is delighted that all 18 days of the Aviva National Finals (10 – 27 August) will be streamed online, and available for everyone to view free of charge. Visit our official streaming platform ➡️ https://bit.ly/ANF23Live Visit our website bowlsengland.com to keep up to date with all the latest news Social media coverage is available on Bowls England’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram sites. Tickets to the National Finals start at just £4 for adults and £1 for Under 18s offer a full day of top-class sporting action. Event passes are available and all tickets are cheaper in advance. Under 3s enter free of charge. Get your Aviva National Finals 2023 tickets ➡️ https://bit.ly/AvivaNF23
Aviva National Finals | Day 7-9 HighlightsWelcome to the Aviva National Finals 2023 live from Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa! Here's highlights from Days Seven, Eight & Nine Bowls England is delighted that all 18 days of the Aviva National Finals (10 – 27 August) will be streamed online, and available for everyone to view free of charge. Visit our official streaming platform ➡️ https://bit.ly/ANF23Live Visit our website bowlsengland.com to keep up to date with all the latest news Social media coverage is available on Bowls England’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram sites. Tickets to the National Finals start at just £4 for adults and £1 for Under 18s offer a full day of top-class sporting action. Event passes are available and all tickets are cheaper in advance. Under 3s enter free of charge. Get your Aviva National Finals 2023 tickets ➡️ https://bit.ly/AvivaNF23
Johns Trophy - Interview with Sandra AndrewsGreat Granddaughter of Carla Johns, Sandra Andrews, talks about her connection to the Johns Trophy, and the fabulous story of its beginnings...
Aviva National Finals | Day 5 HighlightsWelcome to the Aviva National Finals 2023 live from Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa! Here's highlights from Day 5. Bowls England is delighted that all 18 days of the Aviva National Finals (10 – 27 August) will be streamed online, and available for everyone to view free of charge. Visit our official streaming platform ➡️ https://bit.ly/ANF23Live Visit our website bowlsengland.com to keep up to date with all the latest news Social media coverage is available on Bowls England’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram sites. Tickets to the National Finals start at just £4 for adults and £1 for Under 18s offer a full day of top-class sporting action. Event passes are available and all tickets are cheaper in advance. Under 3s enter free of charge. Get your Aviva National Finals 2023 tickets ➡️ https://bit.ly/AvivaNF23
A CLASSIC NATIONAL FINAL | Men's Pairs Final 2023Relive extended highlights of a final that had everything! Steve Gunnell and two times British champion Edward Morris of Essex face Joe Dawson & Nick Wardle of Leicestershire in the 2023 Aviva National Finals. Bowls England is delighted that all 18 days of the Aviva National Finals (10 – 27 August) will be streamed online, and available for everyone to view free of charge. Visit our official streaming platform ➡️ https://bit.ly/ANF23Live Visit our website bowlsengland.com to keep up to date with all the latest news Social media coverage is available on Bowls England’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram sites. Tickets to the National Finals start at just £4 for adults and £1 for Under 18s offer a full day of top-class sporting action. Event passes are available and all tickets are cheaper in advance. Under 3s enter free of charge. Get your Aviva National Finals 2023 tickets ➡️ https://bit.ly/AvivaNF23
Aviva National Finals | Day 1-3 HighlightsWelcome to the Aviva National Finals 2023 live from Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa! Here's highlights from the National Men's Singles from Day One, Two and Three. Bowls England is delighted that all 18 days of the Aviva National Finals (10 – 27 August) will be streamed online, and available for everyone to view free of charge. Visit our official streaming platform ➡️ https://bit.ly/ANF23Live Visit our website bowlsengland.com to keep up to date with all the latest news Social media coverage is available on Bowls England’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram sites. Tickets to the National Finals start at just £4 for adults and £1 for Under 18s offer a full day of top-class sporting action. Event passes are available and all tickets are cheaper in advance. Under 3s enter free of charge. Get your Aviva National Finals 2023 tickets ➡️ https://bit.ly/AvivaNF23
