THE long-standing fixture secretary at Kensey Vale Bowls Club, Roy Lane, is set to complete his prestigious 50th year in the role this year.

Roy has been a key part of the club for over half of its 99-year lifetime and has seen it grow from a club of three rinks to a club boasting six rinks and impressive facilities.

As well as his primary roll, Roy has made sure to lend a hand in various other areas, helping to develop the club he has come to love over the years.

He has played a prominent role in helping youngsters discover bowls and has assisted in organising club competitions. He has also been a key member of the club's management committees, overseeing continued growth of Kensey Vale within the local community.

2026 will be Roy’s 50th and final season as fixtures secretary.

The legacy he will be leaving is sure to be a tough act to follow and the job he has done over his many years in the position speaks of his love for the club, his proactive attitude and dedication to growing Kensey Vale Bowls Club.

Roy was recently one of many nominees in the national Bowls England public vote for the unsung hero award.

In January, he attended the prestigious Bowls England Awards ceremony at the Athena Hotel in Leicester with his family and the other finalists and won.

The awards illustrate the depth of service and talent within communities and serves as an inspiration to others to volunteer, coach, officiate and play their part in bowls.

Nine awards were decided by the awards panel this year, with the unsung hero award shortlisted by the panel before heading to a public vote. Fellow Cornish clubs, Bodmin and Wadebridge, were nominated for Club of the Year.