David J. Bryant, one of the greatest lawn bowlers of all time, dies at the age of 88 after a career which included nine indoor world titles

David J. Bryant, widely considered the greatest lawn bowler of all time, has passed away at the age of 88. 

Bryant, who was well known for using a tobacco pipe whilst playing, won 11 World Outdoor Bowls Championship medals, nine world Indoor Bowls Championship titles and five Commonwealth Games gold medals, at four different games from 1962-1978. 

He was also awarded an MBE, and then a CBE, for his services to lawn bowls. 

David J.Bryant, one of the greatest lawn bowlers of all time, has died at the age of 88

David J.Bryant, one of the greatest lawn bowlers of all time, has died at the age of 88


'David was an icon for many decades, whose name was synonymous with our sport. He was well-respected by all who knew him,' said David Tucker, the Board Chair of Bowls England. 

'I was fortunate to compete against David on the green on many occasions, often coming on the wrong end of the scoreline, but a match against him was always a pleasure and includes many memories that I will never forget. My thoughts are with David's family and friends at this time.'