AN era will come to an end in the Wakefield Workshops Bowling League when York-born Phil Wray steps down as secretary – after 32 years in the role.

Wray, who was born in 1947 and educated at Archbishop Holgate Grammar School before joining the West Riding Police Force in 1962 and moving to Normanton, has organised all aspects of the Wakefield league, including fixtures, results and tables and the annual presentation evening.

He served the force for 31 years in Wakefield – representing West Yorkshire Police at football and cricket – and retired as an inspector in 1993. He took up bowling in the early 1970s and joined West Riding Sports Club, where he still plays.

He has also been a captain, club secretary, chairman and treasurer. He is stepping down as he is moving from the area to be closer to his family.