Bowler Michelle White hailed the Commonwealth Games for instilling belief in her, after she finished fourth in the women’s para pairs in Leamington Spa.

White and partner Gill Platt were beaten 16-7 to bronze by South African pair Victoria van der Merwe and Desiree Levin.

But VCD bowler White, who also plays at Swale Indoor Bowls Club, comes away with something more valuable than any medal could be.

“I had a problem with believing in myself, but every single one of them up there believed in me when I didn't,” said White.

“The one thing this Games has shown me is that I now believe in myself. I've only been playing for five years.

“If you'd have said to me five years ago you'll be in a bronze medal match I would've laughed at you.

“This is a win-win. It's amazing.”

The pair have lit up Victoria Park with their constantly positive attitude and beaming smiles whatever happens on the green.

The pair beat New Zealand, Australia, and eventual gold medallists Scotland in the group stage before losing out to Scotland in the semi-finals.

But White is not too upset about missing out on a medal.

"I'm going to take away this amazing experience with this amazing woman (Platt) who's taught me so much, even in the last week of playing with each other,” added White.

“We're strong and determined.”

White competed with Platt, the oldest member of Team England at 74, and the Surrey bowler echoed the sentiments of her partner.

“For me, because I'm the oldest member of our squad, this is just the icing on the cake of my bowling,” said Platt.

“I've enjoyed every second and to actually get to a medal round is something I would never have dreamed of in a million years.

“Yes, we lost, but we played well. The South Africans were a little bit better, but I've enjoyed it and it's been the most amazing experience.

“We were only put together in 2020 as a pair and we've just got better and better. I love her to bits.”

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