It is with great sadness that we announce the death of John Austin, an Honorary Member of Bowls England, who passed away on Wednesday 19th February. He was a devoted figure within the bowls community, whose commitment to the sport spanned decades.

In 1996, while a proud member of Banbury Central BC, he took on the role of Oxfordshire President, leading with integrity and enthusiasm. His leadership and passion for the sport were quickly recognised on a national level, leading to his election as Junior Vice President of the English Bowling Association (EBA) shortly after his County Presidency.

The year 2000 marked a pinnacle in John’s time connected to the sport as he was honoured to serve as President of the EBA. Throughout his presidency, John enjoyed visiting many clubs including a trip to Oxford City & County BC to mark their 65th anniversary, with his side winning a ten-rink match by eight rinks to two.

He was very instrumental behind the Friends of English Bowling, working to promote and support the sport at all levels. His influence also reached the Barbarians Bowls Association, where his passion was again recognised, culminating in his presidency in 2019 and being made a Life Member earlier this year.

Bowls was very much a family affair for John. His wife, Freddie, shared his love for the sport and followed in his footsteps, becoming President of the Oxfordshire Women’s Bowling Association in 1998.

John Austin will be remembered not only for his remarkable contributions to the sport but also for his kindness, as he leaves behind a legacy that has enriched the bowls community.

Our thoughts are with Freddie, their family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing John.

The funeral service will take place on Tuesday, 1st April 2025, at 2:30 PM, at All Saints Church, Church Lane, Croughton, NN13 5LS.