Norman Tilley at 103 years young being interviewed by BBC Kent

Hannah Roe

Reporting from Whitstable

• Published

  31 August 2026

Norman Tilley has been alive for longer than his bowls club in Kent has been established.

At 103 years old, he is one of Whitstable Bowling Club's most treasured members, celebrating birthdays there, organising club holidays and even winning trophies.

Norman's friends describe him as a "legend".

"He doesn't stop - he's just such a character," said club officer Tracy Hamilton. "You've never met anybody like Norman and isn't it just unbelievable that he's still bowling?"

She added: "He organises all of our club holidays, he sorts things, he's a lovely chap."

Norman has a special chair that allows him to sit down during some of the longer games, but apart from that, he shows no sign of slowing down just yet.

Norman has been playing for 38 years and made six club finals

"This really is a wonderful club," Norman said. "There's quizzes, bingo nights and I organise the club holidays too, have done for years, so there really is interest for me all year round."

The bowler was a keen sportsman in his youth. He was stationed in Gaza during World War Two and competed in athletics in several countries representing the Royal Air Force.

He joined the bowls club when he was 68 and has been playing several times a week ever since.

When asked what his secret to longevity was, he said: "I've no idea, I'm just an ordinary individual.

"I've had my illnesses and there have been a few times when I've nearly dropped the old clanger as you might say, but I've overcome them and here I am."

To view full interview on BBC South East please copy the address below and put in your browser. https://www.facebook.com/reel/1049784834595240