The 48-year-old former indoor National Singles and Triples champion is honouring several local match commitments before retiring from the sport due to ill health.

As well as winning countless titles at Grantham Indoor Bowling Club, Martin played at county, national and international level for many years.

Martin said he has always been keen on any sport with a ball or where good hand-eye co-ordination is necessary, and bowls fits the bill.

He said: "My mainstay has always been indoor bowls. There is a bit more luck in the outside game, whereas the indoor greens are a lot quicker.

"So I dedicated myself to indoor bowls and always gave myself a goal."

He went on to win two national titles, nine county championships and played for Lincolnshire in the Liberty Trophy for more than 20 years.

Martin was selected for the England International Series team twice, helping the national side to a Hilton Trophy win in 2001.

His introduction to bowls came quite by accident when he was about 10 years old.

A friend of Martin's father, Albert, took him to Dysart Park green and the youngster took to the sport immediately.

He was once ranked sixth nationally and said he rates winning the national singles as his proudest moment, although representing his country ranks a close second.

He said the singles is the Blue Riband event in indoor bowls and to finish first from 3,500 entrants was some achievement.

A spinal problem that has spread into Martin's neck is restricting the way he plays and after much deliberation he has decided to call it a day, rather than play at a reduced level.

He said: "It's very frustrating and I am annoyed to give up. It is the end of an era and a hard decision to make.

"I would love to put something back into the sport and hopefully I will get into coaching, offering my experience, and encourage youngsters to the club."