Bowls England Awards

Clubs are the heartbeat of our sport, so which of our 2000 clubs will follow in the footsteps of last year’s winner, Ilfracombe (Devon), and receive this year’s coveted title?  This award celebrate clubs that have made the most significant contribution over the last 12 months across all facets of club management and development. 

This award is open to all clubs which are affiliated to Bowls England. A club can nominate itself or be nominated by their County Association. The shortlist and winner will be decided by an expert panel.

Ifracombe (Devon) – 2023 Club of the Year Winner

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.

There’s little better than the camaraderie of being part of a team. This award recognises the team that has performed admirably on the green over the past 12 month, at national, county or club level. That could be a team of any size, from Pairs all the way up to a Middleton or Johns. 

This award is open to all teams, whose players are affiliated to Bowls England. A team can nominate itself of it can be nominated by its club or County Association.

Shanklin A Team (Isle of Wight) – 2023 Team of the Year Winner

Shanklin etched a remarkable chapter in its history, culminating in a triumphant 2023 season. The team’s success is 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. Recognizing 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. 

County Associations play a pivotal role in the administration of our sport.  This award is for the County Association, which has done the most outstanding work across all areas of development, competition, governance, promotion and national initiatives. 

There are no nominations for County of the Year. The award will be shortlisted based on Counties’ achievements through the year in areas such as participation growth, competition and governance. The winner will be decided by an expert panel.

Somerset – 2023 County of the Year Winner

Somerset has taken on the challenge of member recruitment with enthusiasm, actively pursuing new club memberships through successful participation in Bowls’ Big Weekend. This reflects a dedicated commitment to portraying bowls as an inclusive activity accessible to individuals of all ages and skill levels.

Beyond Bowls’ Big Weekend, Somerset clubs have shown great enthusiasm for the innovative Bowls Bash and Play Bowls platform, contributing to the growth of new memberships throughout the county.

The Aviva National Finals proved to be a triumphant occasion for Somerset, securing victory in four competitions. The Men’s Junior Pairs saw Oli Collins and Liam White emerge victorious, while Stef Branfield claimed the Women’s Singles title and Laura Holden the Women’s Two-Bowl Singles. Anthony Page celebrated success in the Disability Bowls England (DBE) singles, adding to Somerset’s impressive achievements.

Quality playing surfaces are critical for the enjoyment of bowlers and the growth of our sport.  This prize will be awarded to a greenkeeper at an affiliated club who has done outstanding work on their green.  

Greenkeeper of the Year is open for nominations from clubs or County Associations.  This will be shortlisted by Bowls England, with the winner decided by an expert panel.

Mark Piper (Maldon BC, Essex) – 2023 Green Keeper of the Year Winner

Mark Piper has 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 the upcoming year—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.

Without umpires, playing competitive bowls is simply not possible.  This award will be presented to the umpire or marker who has gone above and beyond in 2023.  Their work will have helped deliver great experiences for participants this year. 

Nominations are open to players who have experienced excellent officiating, clubs and County Associations. This award will be decided by an expert panel including an English Bowling Umpires Association (EBUA) representative.

Steve Alway (Gloucestershire) – 2023 Green Keeper of the Year Winner

Steve is a dedicated and invaluable member of the bowls community, recognized for his extensive contributions as a National Umpire within the EBUA. His longstanding commitment is exemplified by his regular attendance at the Aviva National Finals over many years. He has also ensured the smooth and fair conduct of competitions at local and regional levels. 

Beyond officiating, Steve’s efforts extend to administrative and coordinative roles. Serving as a County Coordinator for multiple County Associations and a former Area Secretary, he plays a vital role in the organizational aspects of the sport. Steve’s involvement in workshops, examinations, and Markers Courses showcases his commitment to enhancing the knowledge and skills of others within the bowls community. 

At the Aviva National Finals, if not involved in umpiring or marking, Steve can be found selflessly assisting others in the office.

Coaches play a huge role in helping bowlers at all levels to reach their potential and enjoy our sport.  Celebrating the best of the coaching community in England, this gong will honour the most outstanding and motivational coach of the past 12 months. 

Nominations are open to recipients of great coaching, clubs and County Associations. This award will be decided by an expert panel featuring a Coach Bowls representative.

Robin Yetman (West Hoathly BC, Sussex) – 2023 Coach of the Year Winner

Robin has made an incredible impact through his exceptional coaching initiatives, significantly contributing to West Hoathly’s growth and success. Taking the initiative and investing personally in his coaching, Robin acquired Level One and Level Two Coach Bowls qualifications, applying these skills practically under observation both outdoors and indoors. 

His commitment extended to crafting a comprehensive coaching manual tailored for new bowlers. Robin supervised twice-weekly coaching sessions throughout the 2023 season, ensuring the implementation of the coaching program. He also played a pivotal role in preparing bowls initiation programs and coordinating activities on recruitment days. 

Under Robin’s coaching leadership, the club witnessed a record-breaking influx of 17 new members, leading to a net growth in membership from 73 to 87. Feedback from these new members credits their enrollment to Robin’s coaching efforts. West Hoathly not only surpassed its challenging new member recruitment target but also entered an additional squad into a local Mid-Sussex league, demonstrating the impact of Robin’s initiatives. 

Many of the new bowlers, under Robin’s guidance, actively participated in friendly fixtures during their inaugural season, prompting the club to increase the number of friendlies to meet their needs. 

Robin’s commitment to coaching is evident in his resilience and enthusiasm. Despite enduring a painful back injury during the coaching program (which also kept him off the bowling green for two months) he remained dedicated to completing all coaching sessions. 

Volunteers are the lifeblood of our sport and we could not deliver our event programme without those who give their time to support the Bowls England team.  This award is specifically for the outstanding volunteer at Bowls England events, such as the Aviva National Finals. 

This will be decided by an expert panel, with the shortlist drawn up by the Bowls England staff team.

Simon Lilley – 2023 Bowls Maker of the Year Winner

Simon volunteered to help with the pre–Aviva National Finals admin work which included successfully updating the online competition portal with all the player information. Simon ran the competitions desk on more than one occasion during the Aviva National Finals and produced MC sheets and live scoring documents. 

Outside of the National Finals, Simon is the competition secretary of Lincolnshire and is also a member of the Competition Working Group. He puts a lot of time and effort into the game throughout the season for his county and Bowls England. He is also a great supporter of Bowls Bash and has signed up two clubs, including his own, to become Bowls Bash Accredited Clubs. He is always looking for ways to grow and develop the game and is willing to spend his own time to do this.

“You make a living from what you get.  You make a life from what you give.” Our sport is full of people who work tirelessly behind the scenes. This accolade will recognise someone who has contributed impressively to any area of voluntary activity to support the delivery of our sport over the last 12 months. 

Nominations are open to clubs and County Associations. The shortlist will be decided by an expert panel and then be put to an online vote to decide the winner.

Gilly Meadows (Dursley BC, Gloucestershire) – 2023 Unsung Hero of the Year Winner

Gilly has been a stalwart of the club’s committee for an impressive 18 years. Gilly’s dedication and vast knowledge of 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 organizational 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 enhances 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 raising 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. 

Previously known as the Fit for the Future Award. Bowls England’s Fit for the Future strategy commits to making our sport truly accessible. We will achieve this by breaking down barriers to participation and embracing everybody, irrespective of their background or circumstance. This accolade celebrates an initiative at club or county level, which has made our sport more equal, diverse and inclusive. It may have inspired under-represented groups to play bowls, modernized our sport’s governance or simply challenged conventional thinking.     

Nominations are open to individuals, clubs or County Associations. The nominations will be shortlisted by an expert panel with an online vote held to determine the winner.

West Backwell BC (Somerset) – 2023 Diversity and Inclusion Winner

West Backwell Bowling Club (WBBC) was facing the fear of colsure heading into 2023 after an annual downward trend in memberships since the COVID-19 pandemic. They set out what thriving would look like for the club and its members and born was “Thrive With Bowls.”

Thrive with Bowls, designed with three core aims of promoting physical activity, alleviating isolation, and enhancing mental well-being, proved to be a resounding success. The club’s dedication to breaking down entry barriers led to an impressive turnout of over 600 participants, spanning ages 4 to 96, encompassing both able-bodied and disabled individuals.

WBBC’s strategic approach gathered positive publicity and secured support from Sport England and 16 commercial sponsors.
Thrive with Bowls extended its impact by sharing resources and strategies with other local clubs. Beyond increased participation, the club’s success was measured by the positive stories that emerged, showcasing improved physical activity, mental health, and success stories.

The club’s achievements under Thrive with Bowls were structured around recruitment, retention, and engagement. Introducing a Novices section, themed events like Try Bowls Tuesdays, and community outreach initiatives showcased WBBC’s commitment to building a sustainable future for the club.

Recruitment initiatives, such as family fun days and novice tournaments, saw overwhelming success. Community engagement extended beyond bowls, featuring health and well-being sessions, a fashion show, and a coronation celebration, reinforcing the club’s integral role in village life.

WBBC’s dedication to changing the image of bowls through a modern kit and coaching support demonstrated their forward-thinking approach. By offering subsidised subscriptions, disability aids, and inclusive equipment, WBBC ensured that everyone, irrespective of background or ability, could thrive with bowls.

In summary, WBBC’s Thrive with Bowls campaign created a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable future for the club, positively impacting the lives of countless individuals in the local community.

This is Bowls England’s most prestigious award. Our equivalent to a Lifetime Achievement Award, this will recognise someone who has made an outstanding contribution to our sport at club or county level over an extended period of time.     

Nominations are open to clubs and County Associations. A Bowls England expert panel will decide the shortlist and winner.

2023 Certificate of Merit winners:

Lindsay Collin (Gloucestershire)

Malcolm Grimwood (Suffolk)

Kay Kerley (Hampshire)

John Ottaway (Norfolk)

Roy Rogers (Leicestershire)

The outstanding male bowler (under 25 at 1 April 2024) who has represented England in junior international bowls, or performed exceptionally in 2024 national domestic competition.   

Nominations for this award are decided by England players, management staff and the international selectors.

Tom Holmes (Ross-on-Wye BC, Herefordshire) – 2023 Male Rising Star Winner

Tom had a very strong year on the green in 2023, in particularly at the Aviva National Finals. Battling his way through tough rounds, Tom was victorious securing the National Men’s Junior Singles title. Continuing to perform well, Tom also qualified in other national competitions in the Men’s Pairs and Men’s Fours competition. In addition to his impressive victories at the Aviva National Finals, Tom showcased exceptional leadership skills as the captain of the England Men’s U25 team playing in the International Series at Llandrindod Wells BC, Wales.

The outstanding female bowler (under 25 at 1 April 2024) who has represented England in junior international bowls, or performed exceptionally in 2024 national domestic competition.   

Nominations for this award are decided by England players, management staff and the international selectors.

Emily Kernick (Sherwood Park BC, Warwickshire) – 2023 Female Rising Star Winner

In her breakout season, it was one to remember for Emily. 2023 proved to be a resounding success nationally and internationally, who played outstanding bowls throughout the season. At the Aviva National Finals Emily secured her first Women’s Junior Singles title. The success didn’t stop there, with Emily also winning the Junior Women’s Pairs title completing the double, proving how well she had performed throughout the season.

Strong performances on the green saw Emily called up to the international stage to represent England at the under 25 International series in Wales. It wasn’t to be for England in the International series but a proud moment for Emily nevertheless.

The outstanding male bowler who has represented England in senior international bowls, or performed exceptionally in 2023 national domestic competition. After outstanding performances in British Isles and World Championships, this will be fiercely contested. 

Nominations for this award are decided by England players, management staff and the international selectors.

Ed Morris (Essex County BC, Essex) – 2023 Male Bowler of the Year Winner

It has been another outstanding season for Ed Morris on the green. A triumphant performance at the British Isles saw Ed retain the Men’s Singles Championships, the first time a player has won consecutive British Isles Men’s Singles titles since David Bryant.

On the international stage, Ed proudly represented England at the World Championships over in Australia followed by competing in the World Champion of Champions, securing bronze after a narrow semi-final defeat.

Bringing the focus closer to home, with strong performances at the Aviva National Finals resulted in Ed becoming a finalist in both the Men’s National Pairs and Men’s National Triples events.

The outstanding female bowler who has represented England in senior international bowls, or performed exceptionally in 2023 national domestic competition. After outstanding performances in British Isles and World Championships, this will be fiercely contested. 

Nominations for this award are decided by England players, management staff and the international selectors.

Lorraine Kuhler (Oxford City & Cty, Oxfordshire) – 2023 Female Bowler of the Year Winner

It has been a year to remember for Lorraine. Having been selected to compete in the World Championships for the first time she excelled on the green in difficult conditions with a series of strong performances in Australia. Most notably in the final of the Women’s Fours against the host nation, with a number of high-quality bowls that proved to be match winning.

Prior to the World Championships, Lorraine reached the latter stages in a variety of competitions, including the semi-finals of the Women’s Triples at the Aviva National Finals and performed well at the British Isles internationals, securing silver in the team event.