Reigning international bowls champion Greg Harlow got down on bended knee – not to line up a shot towards the jack – but to propose to his girlfriend.

 

Greg, who is in Sheffield this week to defend his crown for the fourth year running at the engage International Open bowls tournament, decided to pop the question to his long-term partner Kay.

And was bowled over when she said yes!

Sheffield has been a lucky city for Greg and the happy couple decided to make their announcement official at this year's championships.

 

Greg said: "It just made sense that we officially announce our engagement at the engage International Open.

 

"Kay and I have been together for three and a half years. I got down on bended knee to ask the question – I guess it’s a pose that comes quite naturally to a bowls player!

 

"I was delighted when Kay said yes. We are hoping to tie the knot next summer."

 

The engage International Open is being staged on World Bowls Tour's unique portable rink at Ponds Forge International Sports Centre - for the seventh year - from now until November 11. 

 

Greg extended his unbeaten record in Sheffield to 19 matches when he defeated Hong Kong qualifier Kenny So in the first round of the competition on Sunday (4 Nov).

 

With live coverage on BBC TV, the event will feature the top 16 players in the world, joined by qualifiers from the UK, Australia, South Africa, USA, Canada, Hong Kong, Israel and New Zealand.

 

Tickets for the competition are available from the Sheffield Arena box office on 0114 2565656 or in person at Ponds Forge. Food and ticket discount packages are also available through Ponds Forge by calling 0114 223 3445.