A legend of the Torbay Bowling Community is a Heaven-sent gift to the game

Torbay Country Bowling Club is celebrating a memorable achievement for long-standing member Graham Heaven at the Bowls England Award Ceremony.

The Management Committee at TCBC thought it only right to let Bowls England know what Graham has done for and what he means to the Club.

“In 2000, Graham joined Torbay Country Bowling Club (TCBC) as an A team member and has been chosen as A Team captain at least 10 times since then,” said the club.

“He has also undertaken these roles across the years: Treasurer, Greens Team Member, Bar Manager, President, Level 2 Coach, Men’s Captain, Men’s Fixture Secretary, Chairman, Club Captain and been a Member of Men’s Committee and Management Committee.

“Graham also undertook some of these roles in other clubs before joining us. Graham’s roles include coaching where he has helped raise the standard of bowls by running weekly coaching sessions for all members, covering strategy topics like head building, tactics, and in-game performance.

“Amongst everything else he has spent over 13 years as Treasurer. He managed the Bowling Club’s finances, administered all funds, worked with the Management Committee to protect financial interests, oversees supplier payments, and handled bar pricing and inventory. It wasn’t just taking our money and counting the pennies!

“Graham negotiated contracts for rates, rent, utilities, insurance, and telephones, and managed club income collection and banking. His financial expertise has contributed to a strong club balance, which he has handed to his successor.

“Graham has been a badged County Player for at least 15 years. He has won every Club Men’s and Mixed competition over the years (except Minors and unbadged for which he was not eligible).

“He has previously been honoured with Lifetime Membership of our club in recognition of his unwavering commitment and tireless efforts over many years. This accolade stands as a testament to the profound impact he has had on the club, both on and off the green. His dedication has set a benchmark for service and involvement, inspiring both longstanding and new members alike.

“This has all now culminated in a Bowls England Merit Award for services to bowls. Only three of these awards are issued per year. We also have to say well done to his wife Kay for getting him to the ceremony without him realising what was going on.”

Congratulations Graham, the Torbay sporting community salutes your magnificent achievement!