Bowls England sadly announces the passing of former EWBA President, Freda Keller.

She assumed Presidency in 1995 and was a BE Honorary Member.  

Freda began playing bowls, following active participation in both badminton and tennis. Bowls suited her more physically in later life; where she began playing the game alongside her husband.

Former EWBA President Norma Hazzledine, who worked closely with Freda during her time as President, said “ that she loved the game of bowls, and made significant contributions towards the game. She continued, by saying that “ Freda carried out her duties as President to the highest of standards.”  

EWBA is widely acknowledged as an association that promoted greater female participation in the sport and both Norma and Freda played prominent roles in achieving these goals, particularly in making the game more accessible to women.   

During her time as President, she oversaw the Atlantic Rim Games taking place in Durban, and the senior International team seeking to retain the Eve Trophy.

Freda was a prominent figure, within both the women’s game and at the county level.

She previously played for her home club of Woking Park in Surrey, where she was President of the Surrey County Women’s Bowling Association in 1991 and a Founder Member of SCWIBA in 1989 in the inaugural year, when Surrey secured success in the initial playing of the Atherley Trophy.

Freda then moved from Woking Park to Lincolnshire, where she served as Secretary.

She dedicated much of her many years in the game to improving and developing female participation.

We owe a great debt of gratitude to a committed player and administrator, who progressed the game to new levels.

Our thoughts are with her son Roger and his family at this time.