David Rhys-Jones has given exceptional and sustained service to the sport of bowls as a broadcaster, journalist, historian, and tireless ambassador for the game. For more than four decades he has brought bowls to life for audiences across the United Kingdom and around the world, combining authoritative knowledge, warm storytelling, and an innate ability to translate the subtle drama of our sport into compelling commentary. His match coverage, features and long-form recollections have informed generations of players, officials and fans, raised the public profile of bowls, and preserved its living history for future participants. 

David’s achievements as a competitor rank alongside his work as a chronicler of the game. He formed a long-term partnership with World Bowls Hall of Fame member David Bryant at Clevedon Bowling Club in Somerset, England. This partnership endured for almost thirty years and produced outstanding results, including winning the 1965 Somerset, English and British Isles pairs titles in their first year together and ultimately recording ten national titles during their partnership. His record as a player, his deep tactical understanding, and his on-green experience have given him rare authority as a commentator and mentor to subsequent generations of bowlers. 

David has mentored emerging writers and broadcasters, supported major international events through incisive media work, and consistently represented bowls with dignity and passion in the wider sporting landscape. His writing and broadcasting have celebrated our sport’s characters, moments and traditions while helping to modernise its public image. For outstanding service, sustained excellence in promoting and recording the sport, distinguished achievement as a competitor, and for inspiring countless people to engage with bowls, World Bowls confers Life Membership upon David Rhys-Jones.