Bowls England sadly announces the passing of former EBA president, Mike Swatland.

He assumed Presidency in 1995, and also served as Leicestershire County President in 1988.

Mike began playing bowls at Oadby Bowls Club, Leicestershire before moving to Blaby in 1994.

Tony Brimley, who played bowls alongside Mike for many years at Blaby Bowling Club described him,  “as a true gentlemen, who had time for everybody.” He continued by adding, “there was no edge to Mike, he welcomed everyone.”

Mike was a prominent and popular figure, at both the international and county levels.

Throughout his time in the game, he was recognised as someone who engaged and welcomed everyone both novices or players who had years of experience.

During his time as EBA President, he oversaw the first international tour to Thailand, which reflected his modern outlook of expanding and developing the sport.

Mike’s visit, as EBA President allowed Thailand, the forum to create greater recognition for their domestic game of bowls.

During this period, Mike visited New Zealand and established a key relationship with kiwi George Shaw, who subsequently became EBA Secretary.

He served as an international selector for England between 1993 to 2000, and he also served on the British Isles Bowls Council.

Blaby Bowling Club was his bowling home from 1994, and he had been an active member of the club, both on and off the green until very recently.

Many members young and old will remember him as a popular, kind gentlemen, and he will be missed by all at Blaby and throughout the bowling community.

Mike dedicated much of his many years in the game, developing and encouraging greater participation.

We owe a great deal of gratitude, to a man who gave so much to the sport.

A true ambassador.

Our thoughts are with his wife Ann and their family at this time.