Gareth Humphreys was fondly remembered by members of Barry Athletic Bowls Club on the official opening of the green. Sons Andrew and Stephen presented the club with a bench, and the club hosted a memorial trophy competition.
“Hopefully this trophy will be played for, for many years to come,” said Andrew. “Not just in Dad’s memory, but for the competition, the friendship and community which he so much treasured over here. He was a member here for seven decades – a wonderful record.”
The green was officially opened by John Holmes, at 91 the club’s oldest member, doing the honours for a second time. He sent down a perfect delivery, hitting the jack full on.
John Holmes takes to the green before sending down a perfect delivery
Picture: Ken Watkins
The memorial competition, organised by Neil Jewess, attracted 32 entries and was played over 21 ends – ten before a hailstorm and 11 after a necessary lunch break, with teams switching to different opponents for the second session.
Peter Rogers, Dean Collins, Liz Woodfin and Jane Heppenstall were the winning team. Andrew Dickens, Craig Mullens, Yvonne Gould and Julia Jones were runners-up. The trophy was presented by Andrew Humphreys.
Gareth Humphreys, who died aged 88 in 2024, won numerous honours in the sport and was capped 90 times by Wales between 1963 and 1978, representing the country at lawn bowls in the 1974 Commonwealth Games, before later becoming manager of the national team.
He won a bronze medal in the triples at the 1972 World Outdoor Championships and secured 15 national and 16 county titles. He was a four-time Welsh National champion in triples and fours, representing the club. For his contribution to the sport as a player, administrator and coaching advisor, he was awarded an MBE in 2009.
The winning team with their trophy
Picture: Gareth Williams
A warm welcome for new members
Barry Athletic Bowling Club remains at the heart of the local community on Barry Island, offering both competitive and social bowls in a friendly, welcoming environment.
New members are always encouraged to get involved – whether you’re a complete beginner looking to try something new, or an experienced player returning to the sport. The club offers opportunities to play, learn and enjoy the social side of bowls throughout the season.
If you’re interested in joining or would simply like to find out more, you can visit the club’s website or drop by the green to see the action for yourself.
Stephen (left) and Andrew Humphreys on the memorial bench given to the club by the family
Picture: Gareth Williams
A special moment on the green
Vale Life’s Editor, Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts, had popped in to show support for John Holmes on the day. Jennifer, along with her husband Mark, had previously helped John publish his book The Evacuee, and was suitably impressed by his opening shot.
“It was a lovely moment,” said Jennifer. “To see John step forward and deliver that opening bowl with such confidence at 91 was genuinely inspiring. Days like this remind you just how important community clubs like this are – not just for sport, but for friendship, continuity and shared memories.”
Ken Watkins
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Barry Athletic Bowling Club
Off Paget Road
Barry Island
Barry CF62 5TQ
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