I didn't realise how much I would enjoy being the Senior Captain of Leek Golf Club Seniors Group when offered the position two years ago.

It has been a pleasure and a privilege to represent the club, to meet new members of our own club and to meet the Captains and members of the clubs we played against.

I can honestly say it has been one of the most enjoyable periods of my life. I must thank Mike Wainwright our Secretary and Jim Greig our treasurer for kind words and advice when it was needed. Their work for this group should not be under estimated.

You hear people saying what a wet summer we had, I know we abandoned one match when the horn sounded but the first two groups had finished their match. Umbrellas up a couple of times at Buxton, once at Leek and mainly sunshine for 23 matches plus the Seniors Open, can't be bad.

My Seniors Captain's Away Day at Chapel en le Frith Golf Club was well attended, we had excellent weather all day. Jim Cumberbatch had the game of his life with I think 44 points, off a handicap of 6.  Quite brilliant for someone getting so little practice.

I managed to play in every match this year. I thank my partners for their tolerance and encouragement. The results don't really matter, we all try to win but it's not the end of the world if we don't. Looking around from the Captain's table at the happy faces and the banter, and groans at my jokes, make it all worth while. Long live seniors' golf.

I had two raffles during the year, and am pleased to let you know that the Air Ambulance had received a cheque from me for £100.

Finally, I thank you all for the friendship and support during the year, and in wishing Brian a successful year in 2012, I hope you will give the same support as I enjoyed in 2011.

Brian Smith

Senior Captain 2011