There are vacancies on the Bowls Wales board, see link for details or contact Bowls Wales direct.

https://bowlswales.com/vacancies/

Announcemen: W.L.B. secretary and Competition Secretary.

As from 1st July, Chris Gilmour has stepped down as secretary of Welsh Lawn Bowls. We thank Chris for his contribution over the last eighteen months and wish him good luck for the future.

Effective from 2nd July, the executive committee have co-opted Nick Harris into the position of interim secretary, with Andrew Goodwin (Pontymister Athletic B. C.) taking on the role of interim competition secretary. We offer our best wishes to Nick and Andrew in their new positions & trust you will give them your full support in the months ahead.

WLB decided to issue cap numbers when it was formed in 2024, these are unique numbers for every international player. Nine more players made their debut for the WLB international team, although some would have played before under the old associations. These numbers were allocated in alphabetical order because they were all capped at the same time. A tenth name was then added later as he also gained a cap coming into the team.

All numbers are on the website and can be found here, tap on the number or name to see the photographs.

We held the Welsh President's patrons day at Llandrindod Wells recently and can share some photographs of the day with you.

With special thanks to Steve Watson, Sporting Highlights.

The Welsh U25 trial teams have been selected and can be found by clicking the links.

Welsh Lawn Bowls are looking for volunteers to help run the British Bowls event smoothly, there will be various duties from giving guidance to visitors, manning doors, distributing programs, helping with scoreboards etc.

under the British Bowls menu there is a form called volunteer, if you complete and send this form your name will be added to the list of volunteers and one of the officers will be in touch to let you know if and when you will be required.

The following players have been selected for the U18 series at Ayr, Scotland 20th - 21st July 2025.

Please can all ladies wishing to take part in the singles report to the Assistant Secretary before 9am on Saturday & to bring a marker for their first game.

We will aim to do the draw at 9:15am, & get play underway for 10am.

All winners of first games will be expected to also play a second game on the day. Losers of the first round games should be prepared to mark for their winning opponents in the second round.

The following players are to be invited to attend the u18 game v Barbarians. There will be an academy session followed by a match V Barbarians at Blaina Bowls club, NP13 3BZ. 29 May 2025.

10.30 start

Boys
Billy Flynn-Pontrydyfen
Celyn Gowan - Pontrydyfen
Jack Davies - Thomastown
Elijah Minnett - Merthyr WE
Oliver Price - Merthyr WE
Jack Thomas - Pontrydyfen
Jack Rees - Blaina
Talan Gunter - Merthyr WE
Jack Evans - Kidwelly
McKenzie Stevens - Dinas Powis
Alfie Price - Llandrindod Wells
Adam Pritchard - Bridgend Municipal
Owen Pearce - Ystradfechan
Joseph Davies - Merthyr WE

Girls
Emily Davies - Whitland
Eleanor Davies - Whitland
Ruby Billingham - Bridgend
Sophie Regan - Ammanford
Libby Harris - Penylan
Rhianna Thompson - Melyn Utd
Cara Dunne - Llandrindod Wells
Ffion Stephens - Llandrindod Wells
Sophie Gunter - Merthyr WE
Ellie Davies - Merthyr WE
Nanci Minnett - Merthyr WE

There are a number of changes to both trial teams for the weekend, check out the teams under, TEAMS - MEN or LADIES - TRIAL TEAMS 25.

Session 2

Session 3

 A fantastic day of bowling, some wonderful talent on show from our young bowlers.  Thank you to everyone who took part and helped preparing and organising the event. Thank you to everyone at Llandrindod for your hospitality yet again and the groundsmen who prepared a great surface to play on.  Congratulations to West Glamorgan for reaching the final and to Monmouthshire on winning the super 9 championship 2025.

Sad to report on another stalwart of Welsh Bowls passing this morning, I think Richard Bowen has written it so well I have simply copied his message and posted below, it includes a link to his tribute on Barry Athletic site, R.I.P. Russell.

Reminder that the closing date for ladies competitions is 26 February, all forms must be in to the assistant secretary by then.

Click on the link to see the W.L.B. calendar for 2025.

There is a Vacancy for a new Welsh selector for the mens international teams, click on link for details.

Welsh Lawn Bowls are saddened to hear of the passing of Alan Baker Thomas.  Alan was county secretary at Montgomeryshire for many years and was well respected in bowls throughout the principality.  He became Welsh President in 2009 and served his country with pride.  Rest in Peace Alan

Announcement - Alan Baker Thomas.

Alan’s funeral will take place on Tuesday 21st January 2025 at the Presbyterian Church in Caersws and will commence at 1pm. The service will be public and the family will warmly welcome those who wish to attend. This will be followed by interment at Llanwnog Cemetery and then refreshments will be provided at the village hall in Caersws.

There will also be a continued celebration of Baker’s life at the Bowling Club in Machynlleth from 5pm that evening and further refreshments will be provided there.

Alan’s family are happy for those attending to wear black tie attire or colourful sports shirts. Alan stated he did not want flowers, but any donations would be kindly received in lieu of the Welsh Air Ambulance and the Village club in Caersws, two organisations he regularly supported.

W.L.B. are delighted to hear that David James has been recognised in the New Years Honours.  David is a former Welsh President and long time county secretary at Ceredigion.  David was honoured for his services as a volunteer and to bowls, he has been awarded a B.E.M. the British Empire Medal.  Many congratulations David from everyone at Welsh Bowls.

Please see message below from bowls wales regarding storm damage funds.

Morning All, 

Please see details below from Sport Wales regarding a Storm damage fund.

Clubs only have a short window in which to apply for the grants which range from a minimum £300 up to a maximum £5,000. Applications open at 9am on Tuesday 10 December and close one week later at 4pm on Tuesday 17 December. 
 
The grants can be used to help with costs covering repairs to facilities, clubhouses, fixtures and fittings, flooring, furniture, infrastructure, equipment, pitch works, utilities repair, replacing white goods and cleaning costs.

To find out more information and how to apply please click on the link below:

https://www.sport.wales/grants-and-funding/storm-damage-fund/

Please can you share with you clubs and across your social media. 

Thanks, 

Claire

National Development Manager

BowlsWales 

Mobile: 07936363108

Office: 029 2033 4998

Website: www.bowlswales.com

British Bowls announcesitsprogramme of events for 2025

We are delighted to confirm plans for a fullprogramme of British Bowls events in 2025.

Representatives of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales met on Monday 11th and Tuesday 12th November to confirm future governance arrangements, review 2024 events and agree competition plans for 2025 and beyond. Whilst Jersey were unable to attend the meeting, they remain a core member of British Bowls and all five nations will sign aBritish Bowls Collaboration Agreement.  A comprehensive Event Manual is also being developed to ensure consistent event delivery between the nations as we work together to build the brand of British Bowls.

World Bowls Chief Executive Neil Dalrymple joined part of the meeting to provide an overview of plans internationally, with the group using this opportunity to take a more strategic view of the wider role that British Bowls can play in future. Discussions included developing the events programme, ensuring the new world rankings system reflects the efforts of British bowlers, maximizing the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games and how we use international events to grow participation.

The season again kicks off with the British Bowls Championships and Internationals at Llandrindod Wells BC, Wales, from Tuesday 24th to Sunday 29th June inclusive. Players from England, Ireland, Jersey, Scotland and Wales will come together to battle for individual and team honours across six days of action-packed bowls.Following positive feedback from players and spectators across all nations, it was agreed that the format for the British Bowls International Series remain multi-discipline with 15 player teams across both the men’s and women’s event. Minor amendments will see the removal of extra ends in individual games plus a review of the points scoring for individual and overall scores.

These events will be followed by the U18 Internationals in Ayr, Scotland, on Sunday 20th and Monday 21st July. This event continues to provide international action for Britain’s top young players.

To top the season off the fiercely competitive British Isles U25 Internationals will also take place in Ayr on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th September. It was agreed that the format for this event will follow that of the International Series, with individual disciplines across both genders in order to better support the player pathway to further international honours, and further work is being undertaken by the British Bowls team to finalise details for this event.

England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales will participate in both the U18 and U25 events.

Welsh Lawn Bowls Secretary, Chris Gilmour: “The British Bowls events in 2024 were hugely successful, with very positive feedback from players and spectators, particularly the new International Series format. We enjoyed a very productive two days with colleagues from Ireland, Scotland and England, and, together with Jersey, we look forward to a bright future for British Bowls on and off the green. In 2025, Wales will showcase the British Bowls Event in Llandrindod Wells quickly followed with the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, we look forward to showcasing the best players and inspiring more people to play and watch bowls.”

Dates for your Diary:

Tuesday 24th and Wednesday 25th June:

British Bowls Championships

Llandrindod Wells BC, Wales

Thursday 26th to Sunday 29th June inclusive:

British Bowls International Series

Llandrindod Wells BC, Wales

Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th July:

Test Match v Ireland

Dublin, Ireland

Sunday 20th and Monday 21st July:

U18 International Series

National Centre for Bowling, Ayr, Scotland

Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th September:

U25 International Series

National Centre for Bowling, Ayr, Scotland

The funeral of the late Gareth Humphreys MBE will be held on Friday 29th November with a service at 11:30am at All Saints Church, Barry, followed by cremation at Cardiff and Glamorgan Memorial Park and Crematorium.  Refreshments will be served at Barry Rugby Club.

OBITUARY - GARETH HUMPHREYS MBE

We are saddened to hear of the passing of Gareth Humphreys, MBE, a cherished figure in Welsh bowls. Gareth began his distinguished career at Penrhys Park Bowling Club in the Rhondda before making Barry Athletic Bowls Club his home.

Gareth played for the Welsh team from 1963 until 1978. Following his bowling career he went on to undertake numerous administative roles. He served as secretary for Glamorgan County and the Welsh Bowling Association, and in 1979, he became President of the Welsh Bowling Association. His leadership continued as he took on the role of President of the British Isles Bowls Council in 1987.

From 1981 to 2007, Gareth was a Welsh selector and served two terms as national team manager from 1989 to 1992 and again from 1997 to 2000. He was also the founding Chairman of the Welsh Coaching Association and played a crucial role in establishing the Welsh Umpires Association. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport, he was awarded an MBE in 2009 for his voluntary services as both a player and administrator.

Gareth’s remarkable achievements included winning a bronze medal in the men’s triples at the 1972 World Outdoor Championships in Worthing and a gold in the British Isles Fours in 1964. He proudly represented Wales in the 1974 Commonwealth Games in New Zealand. His list of achievements go on to include three National Fours titles as well as the Rhondda Recognition Award in 1966 amongst others.

Our thoughts are with Gareth’s family, friends, and all at Barry Athletic Bowls Club.

Photograph courtesy of: Barry Athletic Bowls Club (babowls.co.uk)

Under-18 3-bowl Pairs Competition Held at Llandrindod Wells 01/09/24.

The Competition once again was a success, with thirteen pairs representing eight counties competing in two sections, each pair playing 4 games. Each game lasting one hour or 11 ends.

In section “A” there were 8 teams, with some great games. The Ceredigion pair of Gareth Lloyd Davies & Elis Jones (Tregaron) played very well finishing second, and had an impressive win in their final game defeating Mid Glamorgan’s Ollie Price & Elijah Minett 9-7. The Mid-Wales combination of Alfie Price & Ffion Stephens (Llandrindod Wells) won three games but missed out on qualification for the final after losing heavily to Monmouthshire’s Ethan Simmonds (Pontymister Athletic) & Ioan Cook (Abertillery).With three teams level on 6 points, it was Mid-Glamorgan’s superior shot difference which took them into the final.

In section “B” there were only 5 teams following two withdrawals, but all teams played four games, and there were some very close games. Carmarthen County’s Jack Evans (Kidwelly Town) and Jack Childs (Ammanford Park) played well throughout but lost their third game to Monmouthshire’s pair of Holly Deem (Crosskeys Welfare) & Jack Rees (Blaina) 12-6. West Glamorgan’s Jack Thomas & Billy Flynn (Pontrhydyfen) were involved in two very tight tussles with Monmouthshire & Carmarthen County but unfortunately lost both to scupper their chances of qualifying for the final. In an exciting last round of games, with Carmarthen in a commanding lead over West Glamorgan going into the final end, Monmouthshire trailed 8-9 to Mid-Glamorgan’s Baley Jacka, and Cadin Collins (Blaenrhondda), but managed to pick up a “two” to win 10-9, & finish top of their section
and undefeated with four wins.

The final between Mid-Glamorgan and Monmouthshire was played on rink 5 on green A over 15 ends. The match was close early on, with Monmouthshire’s Holly Deem finding her line & length quickly and Jack Rees capitalising. Monmouthshire led 5-3 on 6 ends, but the Mid-Glamorgan pair gradually began to control the heads with skip Elijah asking Ollie to bring the mat up to the 25M marker playing short jacks to the ditch – the tactic
worked & Mid-Glamorgan picked up a count of “5” on the 10th end, and despite Monmouthshire taking a double on the 11th, it was the Mid-Glamorgan pair who controlled the last three ends with Monmouthshire conceding after 14 ends with the score at 16-9. Congratulations to Mid-Glamorgan who were crowned Under-18 pairs champions 2024 & lifted the Alan Williams trophy

Nick Harris – Competition Secretary.

Champions - Ollie Price and Elijah Minnett Mid Glamorgan

Finalists - Holly Deem and Jack Rees Monmouthshire

The WLB are thankful for the support of Steve Watson from Sporting HIghlights for his photographic coverage of the national finals.  You can see many more pictures from Steve's collection by going to his facebook page or web site.

Website

(3) Facebook

Competitors are reminded that the national competition for under 25 pairs will be played with three bowls per player over 18 ends to fall in line with the British Bowls competition.  Winners of these events will qualify for the British Championships next year.

Congratulations to Mid Wales who won the Junior Double Rink competition at Llandrindod Wells following a fantastic final against defending champions Vale of Glamorgan. The final was all square after the allotted 12 ends, but Mid Wales won an exciting “tie breaker” to lift the trophy and remain undefeated in all 5 games.
The final capped an great day of high class bowling from 9 county teams with some very close games. Full results will be posted on the WLB website soon”.

Welsh Lawn Bowls are delighted to welcome on board our new competition secretary, Nick Harris, of Pontymister Athletic bowls club. Nick has many years of experience of both playing and administration and we are confident he will be a great addition to our team.

You can contact Nick regarding anything to do with competitions on the dedicated email address, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

For those interested in the second round of the Carruthers Sheild, the draw will take place later at Whitland bowls club. The numbers to look out for are on this link.

It is with great sadness that I have to notify you all that Jean de Souza passed away today.
Jean fought a long brave battle against her illness but is now at peace.
Jean was not just a Past President of Wales and of her County Glamorgan but she also served both organisations, the Welsh Umpires and Coaching Associations and her Club Mount Pleasant in a number of offices over many, many years.
She worked diligently for the game she loved and will be remembered by so many who have worked with and played alongside her. Her courage and determination in fulfilling her duties as Welsh President so bravely during her illness epitomised her commitment to our sport.
Rest in peace Jean.

Sue Beacham
Hon Sec
Glamorgan County WBA

Competitiors are reminded to try and bring a marker along next Sunday to help the competitions run smoothly.

Please click on the link to see the second trial team, here.

The ladies squad for the British Championships at Royal Leamington Spa in JUne has been selected and can be found here.  The mens team is still to be selected following a second trial in Llandrindod on 26th May.  

 Men & Ladies Under 18 Trials

Ladies Under 25 Trials

Venue:                Llandrindod Wells Bowls Club

Arrival:                9:00am

Time:                   9:30am

Date:                   Sunday 19^th May 2024

Dress Code:       Black Shorts/trousers & club top.

Congratulations to the following players have been selected for consideration international events for the Calendar Year 2024

Ladies Under 25 & Under 18 Trial Selection

Men’s Under 18 Trial Side

Welsh Lawn Bowls are looking to appoint a safeguarding officer, for more information and details of how to apply click on the LINK.

More sad news this week as we learn of the passing of former WBA President Wynford Smith, he was a stalwart for bowls in the Carmarthen area both indoor and out and a former president and life member of the Barbarians.  Our condolences are sent to all of his family and friends.

The funeral has been arranged for Friday 5th April, 2:00 pm at Felinfoel Holy Trinity Church, 36 Park Road, Felinfoel. SA14 8BH.

British Isles nations announce packed summer of internationalbowls.

We are delighted to confirm plans for British Isles Bowlsevents for 2024.

The season kicks off with the British Isles Championships andInternationals at Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa, England from Wednesday 26thJune to Sunday 30th June. Players from England, Ireland, Jersey, Scotland and Wales will come together to battle for individual and team honours across five days of action-packed bowls.Taking the lead from World Bowls there will be a change to format at this year’sInternationals to include all disciplines being executed by a 15 player team across the men’s and women’s event.

This will be followed by the U18 Internationals at Belmont, Belfast, Ireland on Sunday 20th and Monday 21st July. This event continues to provide international action for Britain’s top young players.

To top the season off the fiercely competitive British Isles U25 Internationals will also take place in Belfast on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th September, and in line with previous years a men’s women’s and a joint team trophy are up for grabs.

England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales will participate in both the U18 and U25 events.

Dates for your Diary:

Wednesday 26thand Thursday 27thJune: British Isles Championships

Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa, England

Friday 28th to Sunday 30th June: British Isles Internationals

Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa, England

Sunday 21st and Monday 22nd July: U18 International Series

Belmont BC, Belfast, Ireland

Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th September: U25 International Series

Belmont BC, Belfast, Ireland

Looking ahead to this years Competitions, Welsh Lawns Bowls Secretary, Chris Gilmour said, “ The talented Welsh players, have a great opportunity to showcase there skills against some of the best bowlers in the British Isles, the excitement to see Wales once again compete in multiple disciplines on the international stage…Let’s Bring Success Back Home To Wales #TeamCymru

The Welsh Lawn Bowls team managers, Anwen Button and Chris Ashman, have put together a four year plan to give our Welsh bowlers the best chance of success.  To view their plan, click the link.