A HIGHLY respected stalwart in the bowls and golf world has died at his Highcliffe home after a long illness. Stuart McCall was 79.

A company move brought Stuart to Highcliffe from Hertfordshire in 1966 and he took up bowls at his local club 22 years ago with his wife Valerie. The couple already played tennis and golf.

Stuart was club president in 1999 and four years later became president of the Bournemouth and District BA. He was president of Hampshire County BA in 2009 and a major figure on the Hampshire unification steering committee, as well as an umpire.

Stuart served on the committee for three years and was the original chairman of Bowls Hampshire when the new organisation was formed in January last year. He still held the post of chairman.

His golfing links extended much further than his bowling connections. Stuart was Highcliffe Castle captain in 1976 and became a trustee of the golf club before being honoured with the club presidency in 2007.

Highcliffe Castle secretary Graham Fisher said: “Stuart was a true gentleman and much-loved; his charm, smile and wisdom will be sorely missed.”

Current BH men’s president Ken Graham said: “Stuart had impeccable manners – he would always tip his hat when a lady came on to the green; a real old-fashioned gentleman.”

BH secretary Graham King added: “I was very fond of Stuart – men like him cannot be replaced. As an officer he was very hard-working and dedicated.”

Highcliffe Bowls Club’s Ken Seal said: “Stuart was the backbone of the club and will be much missed.”

A service of thanksgiving was held at St Michael’s and All Angels, Hinton Admiral, on Tuesday preceded by a private cremation.