MEET THE PLAYERS

Sean Chappell
What’s your favourite TV program?
My all-time favourite TV show has to be Only Fools and Horses. It’s classic British comedy at its best—timeless, clever, and full of heart. No matter how many times I’ve seen it, I always find myself laughing at Del Boy’s antics and Rodney’s hopeless attempts to keep things on track. It’s one of those shows you can watch again and again and still enjoy just as much as the first time.
What size bowls do you play with?
I usually play with a set of 2-11 Taylor Deluxe bowls, which have been my go-to for quite a while. They’ve got a solid feel and work really well on the types of greens I’m most used to. That said, this season I added something very special to my kit—a new set of 2-08 Taylor Deluxe, lighter and better suited to quicker greens. But what makes them truly unique is the fact that they have my grandad’s ashes embedded in the discs. He was the person who introduced me to the sport and taught me more about the game than anyone else ever could. Playing with those bowls feels like he’s still out there with me, guiding my hand and sharing in every shot I play.
Who is your favourite player?
My favourite player is Lenny Brooks. He was a real character and a top-quality bowler, someone I’ve always looked up to in the game. His style, his presence on the green, and the respect he earned from everyone who played with or against him made him stand out. I learned a lot just from watching him over the years.
What are your best achievements in bowls?
The achievement that means the most to me is winning the Lenny Brooks Memorial competition. It wasn’t just any tournament—it was one played in memory of my grandad, who was the one who first put a set of woods in my hands and got me into bowls in the first place. To win that competition, in honour of him, felt incredibly special. It was more than just a victory—it was a tribute to everything he taught me and the bond we shared through the sport. That day will stay with me forever.

Steve Gavin
What’s your favourite TV program?
It’s tough to pick just one, but if I had to, I’d probably split it into two categories. For comedy, it has to be Only Fools and Horses. It’s timeless—no matter how many times I’ve seen Del Boy fall through the bar or come up with another dodgy deal, it still makes me laugh. There’s something about the humour and the characters that never gets old. On the other hand, for a gripping series, Ozark stands out as one of the best I’ve ever watched. The tension, the storytelling, and the performances—especially by Jason Bateman—had me hooked from start to finish. It’s one of those shows that leaves you thinking about it long after the credits roll.
What size bowls do you play with?
I play with a set of size 2-08s, made by Steven’s. They’ve been a solid choice for me and really suit the style of game I like to play. I’ve tried a few different sets over the years, but these have felt the most comfortable in my hand and reliable across different greens. The balance is spot on, and they’ve helped me stay consistent under pressure, which makes all the difference.
Who is your favourite player?
Now that’s a tough one. If I’m being honest, it’s a real toss-up between Gary Ellis and Sean Chappell. Both of them are phenomenal players in their own right—technically sharp, tactically smart, and always competitive. But if I’m forced to pick one, I’d just about have to go with Gary Ellis. His track record speaks for itself, and he’s got that calm, calculated style that’s great to watch. That said, I’ve got huge respect for Sean too—he’s a brilliant bowler and a top lad.
What are your best achievements in bowls?
I’ve been lucky enough to enjoy a few proud moments on the green, but two achievements stand out the most. Winning the West Heaton Merit not once, but five times, is something I take real pride in. Each of those wins came with its own challenges, and to come out on top repeatedly in a competition like that means a lot. The consistency and determination it takes to keep performing year after year really makes those wins special. The other big highlight would be helping win the LV B Division title. That was a great season—not just for the silverware, but for the team spirit and the way everyone pulled together. It was one of those campaigns where everything clicked, and to finish it off with a division win was the perfect reward. Moments like those remind you why you fell in love with the game in the first place.

Martin Ogiliev
What’s your favourite TV program?
Without a doubt, my favourite TV show is Game of Thrones. I was hooked from the very first episode. The mix of epic storytelling, complex characters, and unpredictable plot twists kept me glued to the screen right up until the final season. Say what you will about how it ended, but the journey was absolutely unforgettable. The way it blended political intrigue, drama, and action was like nothing else on television—and there’s still a part of me that wishes I could watch it all again for the first time.
What size bowls do you play with?
I play with size 2-08 Tornado bowls. They’ve been a great fit for my game—comfortable, reliable, and they perform well across a range of surfaces. I’ve had a few sets over the years.
Who is your favourite player?
That honour goes to Noel Burrows. He was my childhood hero—someone I looked up to when I was first getting into the game. I never imagined that years later, I’d have the chance to partner with him in shortmat doubles. We played together for two incredible years, and I learned so much from him—not just about technique, but about composure, strategy, and sportsmanship. Those years weren’t just enjoyable; they were unforgettable. Sharing the green with someone I admired growing up was truly special.
What are your best achievements in bowls?
Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to enjoy a mix of both individual and team successes that I’m really proud of. On a personal level, I’ve won the Knutsford Emmett Merit twice, and although I fell just short with another final appearance in 2024, it remains one of the competitions I’ve always loved. I’ve also lifted titles at the Longendale Merit, the Helsby Classic, the Cheshire Junior Merit, and the Cheshire Pairs Merit, each carrying its own special memory. One moment that stands out as both a highlight and a heartbreaker was making history by reaching the finals of both the 1st Division and 2nd Division LV Merits in the same year—a unique feat that no one else has managed. It’s something I’m incredibly proud of, even if falling short in one still stings a little. 🥴 On the team front, I’ve been privileged to be part of some strong squads. Winning the Knutsford League twice with Leigh Arms was a fantastic experience, and reaching the final of the Budenbergs Open and the semi-finals of the Houldsworth Frank Beeley leading Simon Coupe 21-10 only to get beat 31-28 were proud moments too. One night I’ll never forget was beating Greg Smith in the Grange Classic to reach the semi-finals—a personal milestone that’s permanently etched into memory. Beyond titles and results, what I value most is the honour of having represented Cheshire County and Greater Manchester County—an experience that has meant the world to me. And more recently, as captain of Sale Excelsior, leading the team to two league knockout trophies has been an incredibly rewarding part of the journey.

Peter Ogiliev
What’s your favourite TV program?
My favourite TV show is Fawlty Towers. Despite being short-lived, it’s one of those rare comedies that never gets old. John Cleese as Basil Fawlty is nothing short of genius—the perfect mix of chaos, sarcasm, and impeccable timing. Every episode is packed with iconic moments and hilarious lines. No matter how many times I’ve watched it, it still manages to make me laugh out loud.
What size bowls do you play with?
I currently play with a set of Drakes Pride size 2-10 bowls. They’ve served me well over the years and suit my playing style, particularly when I’m playing on firmer or faster surfaces. I've always found the weight and line to be consistent and reliable, giving me the confidence to play my natural game.
Who is your favourite player?
That title goes to Noel Burrows. He’s someone I’ve always admired for his skill, composure, and understanding of the game. Watching him play has not only been inspiring but educational, too. He’s one of those bowlers who seems to make the difficult look easy, and I’ve learned a lot just by observing his approach and attitude on the green.
What are your best achievements in bowls?
I’ve been lucky to enjoy some incredible moments in the sport over the years. One of the standout highlights was winning the Budenbergs Open, a prestigious competition that attracts some of the best talent around. Another very special achievement was winning the Lenny Brook Trophy—a competition that carries extra meaning for those who know the significance of Lenny’s legacy. On the team front, I’ve had the privilege of helping The Leigh Arms lift the Knutsford League title three times—a real testament to the strength, spirit, and consistency of the squad. I’ve also proudly claimed the Cheshire Parks Pairs title, which was a brilliant experience from start to finish. But perhaps the most personal and memorable milestone of all came when I was just 18 years old. I was selected to represent the full Cheshire County team, a huge honour at such a young age. It was a moment that gave me confidence, pride, and a real sense of belonging in the sport. That experience remains one of the most inspiring chapters of my bowling journey, and it still motivates me today.

Dave Baskerville
What’s your favourite TV program?
It has to be Neighbours. I’ve watched nearly every episode since it first aired, and it’s become something of a daily ritual over the years. It’s more than just a soap for me—it’s a bit of nostalgia, comfort, and familiarity all rolled into one. From the early days of Scott and Charlene to the modern-day twists, I’ve been through it all. You could say I’ve practically grown up alongside Ramsay Street!
What size bowls do you play with?
I typically play with 2-12 Thomas Taylors, which suit my game well across most surfaces. However, I do switch to 2-10s on occasion, especially when I feel a lighter touch is needed or the greens are running a bit quicker. Both sets are Thomas Taylors, and I’ve always found their balance and consistency perfect for my style.
Who is your favourite player?
I honestly don’t have a standout favourite these days, but growing up, it was always my dad. Watching him play, learning from how he approached the game, and trying to follow in his footsteps gave me a real passion for bowls from a young age. He was my first bowling hero and a constant inspiration.
What are your best achievements in bowls?
There have been a few standout moments in my bowling journey, but one of the proudest has to be winning the Allens Green competition in 2019. It was a truly memorable run—not just for lifting the title, but for the players I had to beat along the way. In the last 16, I faced and defeated Gary Ellis, one of the sport’s all-time greats, in a tough and tactical battle. I then capped it off by beating Dave Jackson in the final—another top-tier opponent and a match that really tested me to the limit. That tournament holds a special place in my heart and stands as one of my finest achievements. Another highlight was claiming the LV Merit title, which I’d long set my sights on. The final against Roger Morgan was intense and closely fought, but perhaps the most challenging game came in the quarter-finals, where I had to get past Dave Jackson once again—his consistency and experience always make for a demanding fixture. Over the years, I’ve also had some great success in North Wales, where I’ve won six singles competitions that come to mind. Each one came with its own unique challenge, and together they represent a particularly strong and confident period in my playing career. Reaching the last 16 of the Waterloo was another unforgettable achievement—made even more special by the fact the match was televised. Playing under the spotlight, with every shot captured on camera, added pressure but also brought an incredible buzz. It’s not every day you get to showcase your game on such a big stage. More recently, I was runner-up at the Whaley Bridge Open, a tournament I thoroughly enjoyed despite just falling short in the final. On the way there, I managed wins over two Autumn Waterloo champions—Paul Dale in the quarters and Chris Mordue in the semis. Those victories reminded me that I can still compete with, and beat, some of the best in the game.

Andrew Pearson
What’s your favourite TV program?
My favourite TV show has to be Benidorm. It’s light-hearted, cheeky, and packed with brilliant one-liners that never fail to make me laugh. The characters are larger-than-life, and the show always brings a bit of sunshine and silliness—perfect for switching off and having a good chuckle. No matter how many times I watch it, it still hits the mark every time.
What size bowls do you play with?
I play with Taylor’s “K” Series size 2-12. They’ve been my go-to for a while now and I really like the feel and control they offer, especially on slower greens where a bit of extra weight can be a real advantage. They suit my game and give me the consistency I need when the pressure’s on.
Who is your favourite player?
That would be Tommy Johnstone. He’s a player I’ve always looked up to—not just for his ability on the green, but for the way he carries himself in the game. There’s a calmness and class to the way he plays that really sets him apart, and I’ve picked up a lot just by watching him over the years.
What are your best achievements in bowls?
I’ve been fortunate to enjoy some proud moments in my bowling career. One that stands out in particular is being the only player to have won the Lennie Brooks Memorial Competition twice since it began in 2018. That tournament means a lot to me, and to win it not once but twice is something I’ll always be proud of. In 2023, I had a great run in the Fleetwood Waterloo, making it through to the last 16 in what is one of the most prestigious events in the game. That same year, I also reached the final of the Arthur West Memorial Competition, a tough contest with strong competition throughout. I’ve been a finalist twice in the Cheshire County Parks Merit, which is always fiercely contested, and I’m also a Cheshire Merit Pairs winner, which was a fantastic achievement shared with a great partner. Bowls has given me so many great memories and challenges over the years, and I feel lucky to have experienced success at both individual and team levels. But more than anything, I love the game for the people, the competition, and the passion it brings out in all of us.

David Jackson
What’s your favourite TV program?
When it comes to television, nothing quite compares to watching Golf on Sky Sports. Whether it’s a major championship or a regular tour event, I’m always drawn in by the skill, strategy, and composure that the top players bring to the course. The mix of precision and pressure makes it incredibly compelling, and I find a lot of parallels between the mindset needed in golf and that required in bowls.
What size bowls do you play with?
I play with Taylor Deluxe size 2-11. They’ve been a solid and reliable choice for my game, offering the control and weight I need to perform on a variety of greens. The feel and balance suit my playing style, and they’ve helped me maintain consistency across different surfaces and conditions.
Who is your favourite player?
Without question, my favourite player is Gary Ellis. His record speaks for itself, but beyond the accolades, it’s the way he approaches the game—with focus, precision, and a cool head under pressure—that really sets him apart. He’s someone I’ve always respected and admired for the way he represents the sport.
What are your best achievements in bowls?
Over the years, I’ve been fortunate enough to enjoy a long and fulfilling career in crown green bowls, marked by consistent performances at the highest levels of the game. One of the standout highlights of my career is winning the Isle of Man Open, a prestigious event that brings together some of the best talent in the sport. I’m also proud to have claimed victory at the Spring Waterloo, one of crown green bowls’ most iconic and historic competitions. My career has also included standout wins in top-tier events such as the Grange Classic, Vernon Parks, Allan’s Green, Dobbies, The Royle, and Victoria Park, along with success on the international stage at the Portugal Open. These results reflect my ability to adapt and perform consistently, regardless of conditions or location. Closer to home, I’ve twice won the Nursery competition and I’m also a two-time champion of the LV County Merit, along with holding the LV Veterans Merit title. These local and regional successes have been just as meaningful, and are a reminder of the depth of competition in our area. Perhaps the most remarkable part of my bowling journey has been my record in the Knutsford Merit, where I’ve been crowned champion seven times—a level of consistency and success I take great pride in. I’ve also won the Emmet Cup four times and topped the Knutsford League Averages on twelve separate occasions. To cap it off, I’m a proud winner of the Alan Bratt Memorial, a tournament held in high regard within the bowling community. Every one of these titles represents a moment of hard work, perseverance, and passion for the sport. Looking back, I’m proud not just of the wins, but of the journey—the friendships, the rivalries, and the sense of community that make bowls such a special game. My career so far has been defined by quiet determination and a deep respect for the sport, and I hope it continues to inspire the next generation of bowlers.

John Gethins
What’s your favourite TV program?
I wouldn’t say I have one absolute favourite, but there are a few I always enjoy watching. The Chase is great for a bit of light competition and trivia, and Family Guy never fails to deliver a laugh with its over-the-top humour. For something a bit more dramatic, Game of Thrones had me hooked from start to finish—epic storytelling, even if the ending sparked a few debates!
What size bowls do you play with?
I use 2.12 Billy Hibbert Specials. They’ve got a good feel to them and suit my game well, especially when conditions call for a bit more weight and control. They've been reliable and steady—exactly what you want when the competition gets tight.
Who is your favourite player?
Honestly, my favourite players are anyone who doesn’t start every conversation with “Are you working tonight?” 😂 But in all seriousness, I’ve always admired Brian Duncan. The man was a legend—his ability, consistency, and presence on the green were something else entirely. He set the bar high and left a real legacy in the sport.
What are your best achievements in bowls?
One of my proudest moments on the green was winning the Seymour Pairs alongside Mark Pover. It was a great day with top-quality opposition, and everything just clicked for us. I’ve also had the honour of playing for the Cheshire County side—something that means a lot to me. Representing the county at that level was a milestone in my bowling journey and a real highlight of my career so far.

Jimmy Burgess
What’s your favourite TV program?
I’d have to say Band of Brothers is right up there for me — it’s powerful, moving, and captures the spirit of camaraderie and sacrifice like few others. But if we’re talking about something that makes me laugh every time, it’s Only Fools and Horses. The characters, the timing, the classic lines — it’s just timeless British comedy at its best.
What size bowls do you play with?
I play with traditional wooden 2-8s. There’s something about the feel of wooden bowls that connects me to the roots of the game — the weight, the character, the history in your hands. They've always just felt right to me.
Who is your favourite player?
Without hesitation, it’s my dad — Harry Burgess. He wasn’t just my father, he was my bowling hero. He devoted his life to playing for the Stonemasons and proudly represented Cheshire both before and after the war. His love for the game never wavered. Even into the 1960s, he was still playing for the Cheshire away team. I used to tag along to watch him play — it felt like an honour just to be there. He had a presence on the green, something that’s hard to explain unless you saw it. His biggest triumph came in 1955, when he won the All England. At his funeral, Roy Armson said something that’s always stayed with me: if it hadn’t been for the war and the serious injuries Dad suffered — and the years he spent in hospital afterward — he might’ve gone on to achieve even more. But even so, what he did accomplish was remarkable. John Ogiliev once told me about the time he played against Dad at the Downs, when their side was at its strongest. Dad held him to single figures. John described him as not only a great bowler, but more importantly, a wonderful man. That means a lot coming from John, who lived just down the road from us — a true gent. Another big influence on me was Lenny Brooks. Lenny was like a second father to me — on the green and in life. He had time for me when I needed it most and left a lasting impression that I’ll always carry with me.

What are your best achievements in bowls?
As for my own playing days, I was part of the Cheshire Under-18s team in the early 1970s — back when youth bowling was still in its infancy. I was always into other sports too, so I never gave bowls my full attention, even though a few people said I probably should have. Still, on my day, I could give anyone a game. I wasn’t much for banter — I just let the bowls do the talking. One of my proudest moments came in 1974, when I captained the Quarry’s second team at just seventeen. It felt like a big responsibility at the time, but I relished it. Over the years, I’ve managed to win a few competitions, both individually and with the Quarry, but honestly, the silverware has never mattered as much to me as the friendships. After 51 years in the game, what bowls has given me more than anything is a sense of belonging — the people, the stories, the laughs, and the memories. For me, The Quarry isn’t just a club. It’s home. It always has been, and always will be.

Steve Baskerville
What’s your favourite TV program?
I’ve been a devoted fan of Neighbours for as long as I can remember — I’ve never missed a single episode! There’s something comforting about following the lives and stories of those familiar characters. It’s become a bit of a tradition for me, almost like an old friend that’s been with me through the years.
What size bowls do you play with?
I play with 2.12 Taylor Deluxe bowls. They’re reliable, balanced, and suit my style perfectly on the green. Over the years, I’ve grown accustomed to their feel and performance, which makes all the difference when you’re aiming for consistency in your game.
Who is your favourite player?
Brian Duncan stands out for me. He’s a player I admire greatly — not just for his skills, but for the sportsmanship and dedication he brought to every match.
Best achievements in bowls
Steve Baskerville’s journey in crown green bowls is a remarkable story woven through family tradition, hard work, and notable success. From a young age, Steve showed a natural talent for the sport, a gift that was nurtured over the years into a career marked by numerous impressive accomplishments. One of his most cherished victories is winning the Baskerville Merit in the Knutsford League — a title that carries deep personal significance. The trophy was originally donated by Steve’s grandfather many years ago, making Steve’s win a truly special moment where family heritage and sporting excellence beautifully intertwined. This victory was not a one-off, as he also clinched the Knutsford League Averages title multiple times, showing his sustained dominance and consistency in league play. Steve’s success extends well beyond local competitions. He proudly lifted the Isle of Man Tourism Trophy at the festival, one of crown green bowls’ most prestigious and fiercely contested prizes. His name is also etched in the annals of the Colwyn Bay Festival, where he triumphed in the Capston Challenge Cup and twice won the highly regarded Bill Hughes Memorial competition. These wins underscore his ability to perform at a high level across a range of open tournaments. Adding further to his impressive record, Steve has secured titles at the Cadishead Open, Hawksbury Open, and Hoole Park Open, each win a testament to his skill and competitive spirit. Representing Cheshire County has been another proud aspect of his career, highlighting his status among the top players in the region. One of the standout moments came when Steve reached the last 16 of the famous Waterloo Handicap, an achievement that brought him into the national spotlight with a rare and exciting television appearance broadcast on ITV. That feature captured not only his skill but also the energy and passion surrounding one of the sport’s most celebrated events. Steve Baskerville’s career is more than just a list of titles — it’s a story of dedication, family pride, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Every time he steps onto the green, he honours not only his own ambitions but also the legacy of those who came before him.

Todd Evans
Whats your favourite TV Program - My all-time favourite TV program has to be Only Fools and Horses. I’ve always loved the humour, the clever writing, and the unforgettable characters like Del Boy and Rodney. It’s one of those shows that never gets old, no matter how many times you watch it. It’s a classic British comedy that brings back a lot of good memories and always gives me a laugh.
What size bowls do you play with - I play with size 2.11 bowls. I find that this size gives me the perfect balance between control and weight, allowing me to play with precision and confidence whether I’m leading or playing a more tactical game.
Favourite Player - My favourite player has always been my grandad, Walter Lakin. He’s the one who introduced me to the game and inspired my love for bowls. Watching him play when I was younger left a lasting impression on me—his skill, sportsmanship, and passion for the game were unmatched. He’s not just a great player in my eyes, but a true role model.
Best achievements in Bowls - One of my proudest moments in bowls came during a remarkable season at Quarry Bank, where I managed to win four out of the five trophies available. It was a special time for me—everything just clicked that season. Achieving that level of success in one year was incredibly rewarding and is something I’ll always look back on with pride.

Adam Rodger
What’s your favourite TV program?
My favourite TV show has to be Dark on Netflix. It’s a brilliantly complex German sci-fi thriller that kept me completely hooked from start to finish. The storyline, with its time travel twists and layered characters, had me constantly thinking and theorising. It’s not just entertaining—it’s one of those shows that really makes you sit up and pay attention. I’ve watched it more than once and still find new details every time!
What size bowls do you play with?
I use size 2-8 high density bowls. They suit my style of play really well—offering the right mix of stability and control. I find that high density helps me stay consistent across different greens, especially when conditions vary.
Who is your favourite player?
Honestly... I don’t think I have a standout favourite player! 😂 I’ve seen some incredible talent over the years, but no single name jumps out. I think I just enjoy watching anyone who plays the game with skill, passion, and a good attitude. Those kinds of players, no matter their level, always leave a lasting impression.
What are your best achievements in bowls?
One of my proudest runs in bowls came when I won the Division 3 league averages—and then followed it up the very next year by winning the Division 2 averages. That progression meant a lot to me. It was a sign that the work I was putting in was paying off, and it felt great to see consistent improvement over back-to-back seasons.

Malk Kettle  
What’s your favourite TV program?
My favourite show is Rising Damp. It’s a true classic—brilliantly written with sharp humour and unforgettable characters. Leonard Rossiter as Rigsby was just hilarious. I’ve always enjoyed that old-school British comedy, and Rising Damp is right up there as one of the best.
What size bowls do you play with?
For the first 47 years of playing, I used size 2-12 Thomas Taylors. They served me well for decades. I’ll never forget one particular pairs match—can’t remember my partner’s name (Fred, I think?)—but someone sent in a strike, and my bowl just caved in. I happened to be heading up to Glasgow not long after, so I took the damaged bowl with me and visited the Thomas Taylor factory. They took a look at it and, true to their excellent reputation, posted me a brand-new replacement. Great customer service and a nice little memory from the journey!
Who is your favourite player?
My favourite player is Frank Pilling. He’s always stood out to me—not just for his ability on the green, but for his character and the way he approaches the game. A real class act and a player I’ve always respected.
What are your best achievements in bowls?
I’ve been fortunate enough to win a number of smaller competitions over the years, but the standout achievement for me has to be winning the Veterans Merit in 2016. That one meant a lot. It was a tough field and a hard-fought competition, so lifting that trophy was a really proud moment in my bowling career.

Paul Holland
What’s your favourite TV program?
One of my favourite TV programs has to be Antiques Roadshow. There’s something really enjoyable about trying to guess the value of the items before the experts reveal their assessment—it's like a little game in itself. Before the pandemic, my wife and I had the opportunity to attend a live filming when the show came to our local area. It was fascinating to see how it all works behind the scenes, and to top it off, we even spotted ourselves on the screen a few times! That experience added an extra layer of fondness to a show we already loved.
What size bowls do you play with?
These days I play with size 2-8 high density Taylor Grippa bowls, which have served me really well. But it was a different story when I first started out. My first set of woods were handed down by an old boy at The Grange, and while I appreciated the gesture, I struggled with them for a good 18 months. I began to wonder if the game just wasn’t for me. Then someone pointed out that one of the bowls might not be running properly. As it turned out, they were absolutely right. Once I replaced them, everything began to click into place and my confidence grew. More recently, I decided to try a set of Taylor 2-9 Standards, which I’ve found to have a bit more run. I’m planning to give them a good test over the winter and see how they might work for me moving forward.
Who is your favourite player?
Without a doubt, Simon Coupe stands out as my favourite player. I’ve spent a lot of time helping out at the Grange Classic over the years and had the chance to watch him play numerous times. His style is incredibly smooth and controlled, and he carries himself with such calmness and composure on the green. He makes the game look effortless at times, and watching him play has always been a highlight—and a bit of an education.
What are your best achievements in bowls?
I came to bowls relatively late, only taking it up when I turned 50, so I don’t have a trophy cabinet full of major titles. That said, I’ve still managed to build up some achievements I’m really proud of. I’ve been part of teams that earned promotions and won knockout competitions, and those team moments have meant a lot to me. On an individual level, 2023 was a standout year. I played in both the S&D C Division league and cup and managed to win all 21 games I was involved in. That consistency felt like a real personal milestone. I also topped the averages in the LV Vets B Division the same year, which was a rewarding recognition of the effort I put in. For five seasons at The Grange, I managed to stay unbeaten across all leagues, which was something I took great pride in. That run eventually came to an end in a close-fought game against Mike Clancy, who beat me 21-19—but if you’re going to lose, it might as well be in a proper contest. I also represent the Cheshire Federation Parks B team, and out of the nine games I’ve played for them, I’ve won eight, including three where I finished as the team’s best winner. There’s a bit of a family connection to the sport too. My grandad, who sadly passed away before I was born, was apparently a talented bowler in his day. My aunt was also very involved in the game. I like to think that if they could see me now, they’d be pleased to know I’ve taken up the sport and found a genuine love for it. It’s brought me a great deal of enjoyment, challenge, and pride—and I’m excited to keep seeing where the journey takes me.