A BAXENDEN pensioner collapsed and died while playing bowls.
June Williams, 76, of Royds Avenue, Accrington, was playing for Oak Hill Park Bowling Club in an away game at Read when she suddenly collapsed.
An off-duty paramedic, who was playing cricket next to the bowling green, dashed over to help and a member of the Read and Simonstone First Responders also attended before the ambulance arrived shortly after 7.30pm.
But Mrs Williams was pronounced dead on arrival at Burnley General Hospital.
Maurice Gardner, president of Oak Hill Park Bowling Club, said: "We are all very shocked and upset by what has happened.
"June had been a member of the club ever since it began 12 years ago and she will be sadly missed.
"She was a loyal and reliable member of the team. Our thoughts are with her family."
Teammate Jacqueline Cornthwaite said: "We have all lost a very good friend, who was always reliable, understanding and loyal."
Mrs Williams had served on the commitee during her years at the bowling club, only stepping down when her late husband, Geraint, became ill.
The game at Read CC was a top-of-the-table clash in Division Four of the Hynd-burn Bowling League.
Anne Atkinson of Read said: "It was a lovely evening and there were quite a few spectators about so it was very upsetting for everyone.
"The club sends its condolences to the lady's family and her teammates."
Mrs Williams left a daughter Sharon, son-in-law Dick, grandsons Ben and Matthew, granddaughter Kate and sisters Carol and Anne.
The family were too upset to comment.
The funeral took place yesterday, with a service at St Paul's Church, Accrington, followed by cremation at Accrington.
