Johnson to helm Bowls Wanganui | Manawatu-Wanganui Sport | Surfing, Rugby, Soccer, Football, Cricket in Manawatu-Wanganui

Former international lawn bowler Sean Johnson is the new chairman of Bowls Wanganui.

Johnson, 37, who succeeds Dave Tilley, was a board member last season.

He says like many other sports in the city, bowls is struggling for funds and members.

To that end he is grateful to have healthcare provider Ryman on board as a sponsor of three of its open championships this coming summer.

Under his tenure, he said his organisation would continue to try and encourage greater participation from school students, but conceded the sport had limited appeal to youngsters.

Johnson said family commitments would rule out a return to international bowls in the short-term at least.

He has won medals at World Bowls level.