A young England squad has won the European Bowls Championships. The 13th edition of this tournament took place between Saturday 9th and Thursday 14th July in Ayr, Scotland, and saw the England team win the overall trophy to go alongside three Golds, two Silvers and one Bronze. This success sets the sport of lawn bowls up nicely for the golden opportunity of the imminent Commonwealth Games in just under two weeks’ time.
The England squad which travelled to Ayr for the Euros was comprised of a number of senior internationals, joined by some members of England junior squads. They enjoyed significant success across all formats. The Women’s Pairs line-up of Emma Cooper (Devon) and Stef Branfield (Somerset) lost just one match on their way to Gold, secured with an extra end victory over Ireland.
Further Golds came from the Men’s Pairs team of Tom McGuinness (Buckinghamshire) and Ed Morris (Essex) and Stef Branfield’s victory in the Women’s Singles.
Men’s Manager Stuart Thomas was delighted with the success. “It’s been a brilliant week, a blast. Thank you to all the players for their incredible performances and professionalism throughout.”
Speaking on social media, double Gold medalist Branfield was overwhelmed by the success. She posted: “Wow, what a week! Double GOLD and Team Gold! Absolutely brilliant time with a great bunch of people!”
This title sets up the sport nicely for Birmingham 2022. With more eyes on lawn bowls and para lawn bowls than ever before, the Commonwealth Games squad will be determined to achieve success on the green and increase participation across the country.