As with all big days on the golfing calendar months of planning and preparation are made and the only thing out of your control is the weather (it’s a British thing to talk about it constantly) but on Tuesday it did not let us down – dry, not too hot, not too cold.

Forty-eight ladies took to the tee, posed for a photograph, some taking more encouragement than others and struck their first ball amidst claps and whistles – thereafter they were able to enjoy their round of golf.

The half way house was bedecked in bunting and twinkling lights galore and the ladies were treated to ‘Afternoon Tea and Bubbles’ and once again, after a few laughs and running repairs to players attire (Ursula literally split her sides!)  each were faced with driving off the tee under the glare of an audience – this time they cast care aside as the ‘bubbles’ took effect.

Upon completion of the golf everyone gathered in the dining room and after enjoying a lovely two course meal eagerly awaited the results:

Nearest the Pin – 4^th – Karen Wilshaw – 32”

Nearest the Pin – 7^th – Jacqui Sumerling – 16’ 8”

Nearest the Pin – 9^th – Hilary Tovel – 8’ 2”

Nearest the Pin – 11^th – Dot Cowburn – 5’

Nearest the Pin – 13^th – Wendy Thornhill – 5’ 32”

There were some close scores for the main prizes – with two count backs coming into play – a sibling battle was played out at the front of the field and Sheila Woolley  narrowly missed out in the Bronze division

And then to the main event – the awarding of the Captain’s Prize and the Silver Rose Bowl – which was won with a magnificent 40 points by..................................

FRANCES LILLEY

Amidst tumultuous applause Frances collected her Garmin Watch with a huge smile on her face.  As we all know Frances is a stalwart of Leek Golf Club Ladies Section and is proof that golf keeps us hale and hearty – I hope she doesn’t mind me sharing the fact that she celebrated her 80^th birthday earlier this year. Well Done Frances.

The day was very special for me and I was overwhelmed by the kind words and good wishes from the ladies on the day – it’s success was down to the help from lots of people, too numerous to mention, you know who you are – Thank You!

 Lady Captain