Pryse awarded Bowls England life membership

Wiltshire’s Howard Pryse was awarded Bowls England Life Membership at the AGM held on Saturday 25th February in recognition of his outstanding service to the sport at club, county and national level.

Howard, from Swindon BC, moved to England from his native Wales and made 88 Middleton Cup appearances for his county Wiltshire, and played a key role at skip when they won the coveted title for the one and only time in 1986. In later years, he performed the role of both Middleton Cup Selector and Team Manager.

His performances earnt him international trials but it was as off the green that he would make an impact on the sport for the greater good of his fellow members, and his reputation as a bowls administrator goes before him.

Bowls England Board Chair David Mitchell-Gears MBE, who presented the honour, said: “Howard served in many roles – most notably as County Secretary and being one of the pioneers of the Wiltshire Bowls Joint Council in 1998, which brought together senior officers from the male and female outdoor and indoor sections for the greater good of the sport as a whole. Nationally, he served the English Bowling Association with distinction, and has continued to serve as Finance Director for Bowls England since its formation. In addition to his normal duties, he led the Working Party that negotiated the move to Royal Leamington Spa – a move that secures the future of the sport for both this and future generations. It is thanks to his influence, foresight, energy, determination and persistence that Bowls England sits today in such a healthy financial position. The honour of Life Membership bestowed upon Howard is richly deserved and it gave me great pleasure to present the award.”

Howard said: “It was a great surprise for me on Saturday and for once I was speechless! It has been a pleasure to contribute to the success of Bowls England together with my fellow Board Members, County Associations and Staff Members.”