HEREFORDSHIRE Short Mat Bowls Association’s (HSMBA) President Sue Stannard (Fownhope SMBC) has been awarded the first ever HSMBA Life Membership in recognition of her 25 years’ service to the game.

She received the award at the special 25th Anniversary Presentation Evening recently held at Ross Bowling Club.

Sue received a standing ovation from the 88 members in attendance as HSMBA Chair Joe Loveys gave a speech outlining her huge contribution to the Association having served as its Secretary for 20 years following its creation in 1999.

Five years as Membership Secretary followed before Sue was voted into the role of President at the 2024 AGM in May.

During that time, it is estimated that Sue has attended nearly 200 committee meetings whilst taking part in 370 Winter League matches and bowling an estimated 15,088 bowls (and that is just in the league without all the practice games!).

Sue’s achievements on the mat include but are not limited to:

Member of Herefordshire ESMBA Inter County “A Team” Championship Winning Team

1 x HSMBA Division One Winner

5 x HSMBA Division One Runner Up

2 x County Championship Winner

8 x County Championship Runner Up

8 x National Championship Appearances

1 x win each in the LEH, Bromyard Triples and Macmillan respectively

Off the mat, Sue has been heavily involved in the running of the Association’s two biggest events, the Macmillan Tournament and Presentation Evening, as well as various County Competitions over the years.

The HSMBA Chairman finished his award speech with tribute to Sue on behalf of the HSMBA’s membership at the Ross Bowling Club event held recently.

He said: “For our 25th Anniversary, it made perfect sense to the entire committee to recognise the person who was there when all this began and has been a constant companion for us all throughout.

“It gives me great pleasure to announce her as the first recipient of life membership in recognition of her incredible service to us all for the past 25 years.”

Following a standing ovation, Sue received an engraved glass plaque and was in a slight state of shock.

The Association gives its thanks to Sue for her 25 years dedicated service and they are already looking forward to the Association’s 30th Anniversary.