I am delighted to have been accepted as a Patron of the Mel Evans MBE Foundation.

I first met Mel when I went to watch the Olympia competition where Mel’s organisational skills were there for everyone to see. I was present for the final running of the competition when the final was between my hero, Noel Burrows, and my friend and neighbour, Dave McDermott.

The success of the competition was largely due to the hospitality which Mel afforded to all the players. The competition programme included full details of how the players reached finals day. This innovation has since been copied by other competition organisers.

For over 20 years I held the position of CEO of BCGBA. During that time Mel served as BCGBA Commercial Officer and it was a pleasure to work with him. He was a true inspiration to any one interested in developing the sport of Crown Green Bowls. I can vividly remember receiving a message from Mel to go to see him urgently.

My wife and I arranged to see Mel as soon as we could. We were both saddened to see Mel in obvious distress.

When Mel passed, I had the honour and privilege of speaking at his funeral which was a moving experience for family and friends gathered to pay their respects and thanks for Mel’s life.

Since Mel’s passing, his partner, Lynn Pritchatt, has worked tirelessly for the Mel Evans MBE Foundation in a determined effort to eradicate Motor Neurone Disease.

I will do whatever I can to support Lynn’s work in memory of a very special person, Mel Evans MBE.

John Crowther