Nurse swaps wards for world championship bowls

A hospital nurse is taking a few days off from caring for patients to compete in the World Indoor Bowls Championships.

Chelsea Spencer, a ward sister at Pilgrim Hospital, Boston, Lincolnshire, is competing in the ladies singles and the mixed pairs competitions at Potters Resorts in Hopton-on-Sea, Norfolk.

Ms Spencer, who is ranked sixth in England, will be supported at the championships by her family, friends and husband Martin, who is also a bowler.

She said: "Not too many of my colleagues really know about my bowling. I am sure it will be a surprise for them to hear."

The championships have been staged at the resort in Norfolk since 1998.

The 2025 event made headlines when organisers decided Israeli players could compete, despite a campaign by pro-Palestinian groups.

Ms Spencer, who works in the hospital's acute cardiac unit, first starting playing bowls when she was nine years old.

Her dad Martin Tomlin and grandfather Mick Tomlin both competed in the 1990 World Championships.

Ms Spencer is part of the Spalding Lightning team that plays at the Castle Complex in Spalding. She has travelled all around the UK representing her country at bowls.

She said: "I love my job. It can be quite busy and emotional at times, but when I am on the green I have to forget everything else and just focus. It really is a great escape.

"In the same way, when I am caring for patients they have my undivided care and attention. I cannot think about bowls and competitions. In a way they are a perfect combination for me."

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