Bowls England AGM looks back on successful year of growth, inclusion and sporting excellence

Bowls England’s progress on and off the green during 2025 was the highlight, as County Association representatives met at Goodwood Bowls Club in Leicester on Saturday 21st February for Bowls England’s 19th Annual General Meeting.

Attendees received an update on work across all areas of the business during the past 12 months – including the successful transition of outdoor disability bowls into the company, significant investment secured from external bodies to support future activity and increasing support for clubs and counties.

The Audited Accounts were also presented, which showed a small surplus, down to continued prudent management of the company’s finances despite ever-increasing costs. The meeting included the investiture of our new-look Presidential Team for 2026, which will be led by National President Kim Harris (Devon), and was wrapped up by Chair, David Tucker, as his final duty before stepping down from post.

The work of the past year has strengthened Bowls England’s foundations, while setting up future ambitions to showcase bowls to more people than ever before.

Reflection of a successful year

Presented to all attendees at the AGM, the 2025 Annual Report showcases the progress made over the previous year and highlights many milestones which have contributed to the continued development of the Fit For The Future strategy.

One defining milestone was the assumption of responsibility for outdoor disability bowls, which delivered immediate impact. Player numbers grew by 30%, competition entries more than doubled, and England’s Para bowlers performed with distinction at both the British Bowls Para Series and the National Bowls Finals.

Participation and visibility surged thanks to nationwide initiatives. The fifth Bowls’ Big Weekend saw a record number of clubs taking part, and this year was supported by several MPs visiting their local club as a result of an effective corporate communications strategy.

The Aviva National Bowls Finals at Victoria Park set new records, drawing 19,000 spectators across 19 days. With over 3,000 competitors taking part and more than 4.9 million minutes watched on Bowls TV, the Finals continue to cement their place as outdoor bowls’ premier annual showcase.

Off the green, Bowls England strengthened governance, safeguarding and club development. Partnerships with Sport England secured £300,000 of funding over the next four years to advance junior pathways, with additional funding to support our Commonwealth Games Preparation Programme. External funding has also been secured via UK Sport and Warwick District Council towards the development of the 2027 World Championships. Attendees of the AGM also received an update on the initial exploration of a possible merger between Bowls England and the EIBA. This work has been supported by a £120,000 grant from Sport England over a two-year period.

AGM Special Resolution

Bowls England put forward one proposition for a change to the Articles of Association (No. 47) related to the election of the National President. This proposition was developed following proceedings at the Special General Meeting in November 2025. This proposition was passed.

A Changing of the Guard

The AGM was also a time for a ‘changing of the guard’. Following the review of the Presidential Team, Devon’s Kim Harris was officially sworn in as President. Kim sent her apologies for not being in attendance, but said of her appointment;

“I am absolutely thrilled and will be the best I can be for all of you. I will continue to undertake my duties seriously by upholding our standards, whilst being a great ambassador for Bowls England.”

Kim will be working alongside Vice Presidents, Paul Green (Midlands Region), Brian Toner (North Region), Jennie Cole (West Region) and Sue Bard-Bodek (East Region) for the 2026/27 season, with a further two Vice President posts to be filled.

After six years in the role, David Tucker stepped down as Chair of the Board of Directors, passing the baton to Jonathan Doust, who was appointed following an open recruitment process. Bowls England took the opportunity to thank David for his incredible service, presenting him with Lifetime Membership. Jo formally took the position of Chair at the conclusion of the AGM and will no doubt uphold, and develop, the legacy that came before.

Financial Summary

Bowls England ended the 2024/25 financial year in a strong and stable position, delivering a small surplus of £20,230. Income grew to £1.5 million, supported by sponsorship, increased National Bowls Finals revenue and public funding. A significant uplift in property value for the former Bowls England office in Worthing increased total reserves to £2.46 million, while

cash reserves remained healthy. With sound financial controls and prudent budgeting, Bowls England is well positioned to meet future demands and opportunities.

Blythe Liggins (Bowls England Lawyers) and Dafferns (Bowls England Accountants and Auditors) were appointed. Affiliation Fees for 2026 were ratified at £7.35, and £7.35 plus inflation for 2027.