When Mark Piper was named Greenkeeper of the Year (sponsored by Dennis Mowers & SISIS) at the 2024 Bowls England Awards, he was both surprised and flattered. “It was a great honour just to be shortlisted,” he recalls. “I was very impressed with the achievements of the other greenkeepers, so I was a little surprised when my name was called.” 

Since winning the award, Mark’s work at Maldon BC has gained widespread recognition. “The award has raised the profile of the club,” he says. “We were featured in Bowls International magazine, and we were very pleased to welcome ITV Anglia, who ran a feature on our club.” 

His efforts in transforming the Maldon green have not gone unnoticed, both locally and within the wider bowls community. “Our membership has continued to increase, we now have more members than we have had for many years,” he explains. “We have also become a venue for higher-level matches, holding more prestigious fixtures than ever before.” 

Maintaining a high-quality playing surface is no easy task, and 2024 proved to be a challenging year. “Record rainfall in the early part of the year, which continued well into the summer, provided many challenges,” Mark says. As if extreme weather wasn’t enough, the club also faced an unexpected invasion. “We had a family of rabbits join the club, causing damage to the green, most of which we have now caught and relocated.” 

Despite these obstacles, Mark remains committed to excellence. His advice to other clubs? “Any greenkeeper, regardless of qualifications or experience, can only do their best with the resources they have at his disposal. Many clubs are restricted by limited greenkeeping budgets, but there is funding available to help acquire good quality machinery for clubs wishing to take over the maintenance of their own green.” 

As the 2025 Bowls England Awards approach on 22nd February, Mark emphasises the importance of recognising those who work behind the scenes. “Without the work of volunteers up and down the country, few people would have the opportunity to participate in bowls. They are vital to the sport, and it is great that Bowls England acknowledge this and give them the recognition they deserve.” 

Having experienced the occasion first-hand, Mark is excited to attend this year’s event. “It is a great occasion and very inspiring to hear the achievements of club members. I am always left full of admiration for their dedication and determination.” 

For whoever takes home this year’s Greenkeeper of the Year award on Saturday night, Mark has a special recommendation. “Last year, I was invited to the Dennis and SISIS factory for the day. If that offer is available again this year, I would recommend that you take advantage of the opportunity. The tour of the factory was amazing, and I was made very welcome by all their staff.” 

With a remarkable year behind him, Mark’s passion for greenkeeping continues to shine, proving just how crucial dedicated volunteers like him are to the future of the sport.

The 2025 Bowls England awards take place this Saturday at Athena in Leicester. Be sure to stay tuned to our social media channels for coverage of the evening.

Further information about the range of maintenance products available can be found by visiting www.dennisuk.com / www.sisis.com.