Charles Stewart has bowled over members of Carreras Bowls Club by becoming a county champion.

The vice-chairman of the Basildon-based club was victorious in the Essex County Bowling Association Unbadged final in only his second full season playing the game.

Charles was up against Gavin Connelly of the Henderson Bowls Club at St Chads where he triumphed 21-15.

The final was a close-fought affair played on a tricky green. The card was all-square at 15-15 at one point after Gavin had taken a count of three.

Charles recovered that three on the next end and won the game thanks to some steady bowling on the final end.

After the final Charles - who is already registered as an instructor with the English Bowls Coaching Scheme - was presented with his county badge by ECBA competition secretary Ralph Dearman.

Charles will also be given a rose bowl at the ECBA's formal dinner later in the year in recognition of his triumph in the final.

The ECBA Unbadged competition attracted 600 entrants this year.

Proud moment - Charles Stewart has added his Essex badge to the chest of his blazer

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