Blackball

A rebellious young bowls player from the Lynx Estate who plays by his own rules and dreams of representing England. His talent is clear, but his attitude brings him into conflict with the traditional Torquay bowls club. His arc follows a ban, a dramatic rebranding as the ‘bad boy of bowls,’ and a later partnership that leads to a dramatic comeback.

The head of the local lawn bowls association, a stoic elder figure who upholds tradition and ultimately imposes the fifteen-year ban on Cliff. He embodies the sport’s authority while also serving as a potential ally in the fight to restore Starkey’s career. His presence anchors the sport’s legitimacy and moral center of the story.

Ray’s daughter who becomes involved with Cliff, adding personal stakes to the rivalry. Her relationship with Cliff introduces romance into the sports world and fuels the publicity surrounding the matches. She represents both love and loyalty within the evolving drama.

Cliff’s friend from the Lynx Estate who provides support and comic relief. Trevor’s perspective helps ground Cliff’s rebellious tendencies in friendship and shared history, while his involvement helps move the plot toward the eventual team dynamic.

Cliff’s grandfather, a painter and decorator who embodies practical wisdom and family ties. Mutley’s presence anchors Cliff’s background and provides a sentimental counterpoint to the sport’s commercial spectacle.

A flamboyant sports agent who rebrands Cliff and turns lawn bowls into a media-driven spectacle. He recognizes Cliff’s marketability and pushes the drama forward, even as his methods strain Cliff’s relationship with Kerry and risk the integrity of the competition.