The local bowling scene has been stunned by the sudden death of Myrtle Park’s Roman Hrabar at the age of just 45.

Tributes have flowed in following the loss of one of the area’s greatest and most colourful players, who died at home last week.

Hrabar played briefly for Lister Park, Oakworth, and Keighley Bowls Club during their heyday in the Skipton League.

More recently in that league, he starred for Sutton, helping their A team to two Division One championships.

However, it was at his first club, Myrtle, that he made his mark with his unique style and skill, entertaining spectators for many years and ensuring his team’s success in the Shipley and Aire Wharfe Leagues.

He gained County Parks honours at Myrtle Park, won the Yorkshire Parks’ senior individual merit title six times from 1985 to 2003 and was British Parks Crown Green individual champion in 1988 and 1991.

He also lost narrowly in consecutive Yorkshire ABA Merit finals back in 1989 and 1990.

Add the Skipton Merit to these in 2007, and he proved his ability to be no fluke.

Hrabar was also a terrific doubles player, being victorious in many events but especially in mixed pairs with his partner Pat Lonsdale.

Despite all this, he remained a very modest person and would speak to anyone around the green about the game and enjoy a laugh and joke with his many friends.

Sincere condolences go to his dear sister at this sad time. Memories of ‘the man in white’ – a name given to him because of his dress sense – will last a long time.

May ‘Rhubarb’, as he was known affectionately in this area, rest in peace.

The Myrtle Park Bowling Club website was inundated with tributes, not only from fellow members but from across the bowls community.

Myrtle A team captain Mick Upton said: “He was always the perfect gentleman, never losing his cool if things weren’t going his way, although as we all know, they usually did.

“I have played in the same team with Roman, or against him, in competition, week in, week out for nearly all of the last 30 years.

“I cannot bring myself to think what this coming season will be like . . .”

Brighouse Sports Club member Chris Mordue, one of the Brad-ford area’s best bowlers, said: “I can still not get over the sad news of my friend Roman.

“Having played many years against the very best, I have to say that Roman was one of the most gifted players ever to grace a bowling green.

“He had the most wonderful name and stylish delivery.”

His funeral is next Wednesday, (12.15pm) at Sacred Heart Church in Bingley.