ROMILEY GOLF CLUB

March, 2016

Newsletter

Captains’ Drive In Sunday, 20th March, 2016

Dave Heyward Irene Barrow Gary Williams Matt Murray

President Lady Captain Mr. Captain Junior Captain

Irene Barrow, Lady Captain Barbara Leith, Lady Vice Captain

Dave Heyward Peter Wagstaff Steve Harrison

President Out-going President Vice Captain

Captain’s Drive-in, 20th March, 2016

To cries of, “Stand up Gary!” Mr Captain presented

Sharon Dineen and Heather Denton with 1st prize for

the back 8, 22 points,

2nd on the back 8, Mr Captain and Lady

Captain, 20 points,

Front 8 winners, Colin Davies and Duncan

Challen with 22 points

2nd on front 8, Simon and Conrad

Tipping, 21 points

Hole in one

It was a day to remember for Darren

Baxendale who had a hole in one on the

5th. Double the amount of twos balls for

Darren.

Mark Hilton observed that the ball flew

straight into the cup. Remarkable.

Darren’s golf then went to pieces at the

thought of having to get a round in at the

Clubhouse!

Gary Williams Irene Barrow Dave Heyward Matt Murray

Mr. Captain Lady Captain President Junior Captain

On a gloriously sunny Sunday, a vast number of both Members and friends

descended onto the 10th tee to welcome the new dignitaries to the celebration of

their year in office that is the “Drive-in”.

With the new Vice Captain (and his wife) celebrating their Ruby wedding

anniversary, the immediate Past Captain took to the mic to introduce in turn

Gary Williams (Mr Captain), Irene Barrow (Lady Captain), Dave Heyward

(President) and Matt Murray (Junior Captain) and invite them to ignore their

nerves and smash their drives down the middle of the fairway.

With (to the relief of the participants) only light hearted banter provided by the

MC on the day, the grand total of the drives amassed a whopping 785 yards,

with the Captain driving a mightily impressive 232yds, before the Junior

Captain launched the ball an incredible 281yds.

Once the formalities were over, the four newly appointed figureheads of

Romiley Golf Club were able to breathe a sigh of relief and also enjoy a nice

chilled glass of Champagne before teeing off once more as part of the 8 hole fun

competition, before retiring to the bar for a well earned brunch of sausages and

mash in a giant Yorkshire pudding that went down extremely well with those

who had joined them in the Clubhouse.

With the additional benefit of Whisky on the bar (courtesy of Darren

Baxendale’s hole in one at the 5th), the Clubhouse was full of both joviality and

everyone conveying best wishes to Gary, Irene, Dave and Matt. The winners of

the golf on the day were Duncan Challen and Colin Davies (front 8) and Sharon

Dineen and Heather Denton (just beating the two new Captains on the back 8).

Captains’ Drive In, Sunday, 20th March, 2016

Congratulations were also awarded to Mr President’s Daughter, Rebecca Byle

(who correctly guessed the combined distances of the drives) and the Lady

Captain’s Husband, Bill (who had waged the 2nd closest guess). Bill went home

with an additional £32 in his pocket, and Rebecca was £75 better off than when

she had arrived at the Club some four and half hours earlier.

A truly great day for all involved (before everyone went their separate ways to

watch a certain football match between Manchester United and Manchester City),

and to speak on behalf of everyone involved, the very best wishes once more to

each of the new dignitaries for a

Total length of the four drives from Mr Captain, Lady Captain, Mr President and the Junior

Captain was 785 yards. Bang on bet from Rebecca Byle at 785 and within 4 was Bill Barrow

with 789 yards. Rebecca collected £75 and Bill £32.

Lottery Draw, 19th March, 2016 - IN IT TO WIN IT!

Next draw is on Saturday, 16th April 2016 at 4 pm

Mr Chairman, Peter Howcroft, won 1st prize of

£87.75, and Alison Reed’s number was 2nd out of the

bag to win £52.65.

3rd Prize winner was

David Oldham, £35.10.

Coffee Morning, Monday 7th March, 2016

The first customers, much to the surprise of Lady Captain who attended early to manage all the

proceedings, were two police officers. In fact, the ladies weren’t yet open for business! However, the

constabulary had arrived in response to the activation of the Club alarm and once that was sorted

out they left without even sampling the coffee, let alone buying anything, much to the stall holders’

disappointment.

By 10 am everything was ready and, though there wasn’t a record attendance of members and

guests, there was something there for everyone and the ones who did attend left with bags and

parcels of goodies of all sizes and descriptions. The golfing gear went down a storm, as did the

handmade cards which looked a picture all displayed in front of the fireplace. The homemade cakes

were in demand, some for eating on the spot, but Sylvia Hall and Anne Ludford were considerate, as

usual, and sold half a cake to those who couldn't manage a full one.

Many thanks to all the ladies who helped: Jean Murray and Liz Boycott on the door and raffle

tickets; Francine Walburn and Alison Reed on bric a brac and golfing gear; Lady Vice Captain

Irene Barrow on books and jigsaws; Sylvia Hall and Anne Ludford on cakes; Hilda Thomas and

Isabel Wright on the tombola; Barbara Leith and Angela Slate on the putting competition; and

Audrey Jones and Teresa Hogg selling their cards.

Pam Cunnington, Janet Godfrey, Marjorie

Chandler and Alison Cooke ran round with drinks

and biscuits so thanks go to them. There was guess

the number of tees in the jar and thank you to Lady

Vice Captain Irene for counting them all - twice.

There were 679 and Joyce Glynn had the nearest

guess at 666. Eric Jones’s wife, Pat, a non-golfer (a

definite sign that she should take advantage of the

Taster) won the putting competition. A special

mention of appreciation goes to Pauline Whitehead

who created a spectacular cake, star prize in the

raffle, which was won by a delighted Lynn

Schofield. See Facebook for the stunning pictures.

The event raised £550.70 and thanks must go to all

the ladies who donated bottles, chocolates and raffle

prizes, and of course everyone who bought

something. It’s nothing without you all.

Above: Audrey and Teresa taking time out

to sample the chocolate cake. Looks like it’s

lip-smackingly good!

Left: Hilda, Francine, Alison and Irene

setting up their stalls.

Right: Sylvia with her first customer,

Gwyneth.

Ladies, Thursday, 3rd March, 2016

A Gift to RGC from David Mason

David Mason is pictured

here with three of the five

acers he has bought for the

club. They will provide

excellent delineation

between the 10th and 18th

fairways as well as

providing beauty in the

future.

What generosity!

1st: Barbara Leith, Angela Slate & Gill Walker

2nd Irene Barrow, Janet Godfrey & Val Bonser 3rd Anne Ludford, Teresa Hogg &

Diane Houghton

Quadfurcated, Thursday, 3rd March, 2016

Between the 8th fairway and the 12th

fairway is an afforested area. In it was

spotted this magnificent tree with four

main branches. Bifurcated means "two

pronged."

So this is quadfurcated.

Sexfurcated

Thursday, 10th March, 2016

Last week I put a picture of a tree on

our course that was quadfurcated

i.e. it has four trunks. Today, whilst

clearing brash from the 16th, 17th and

18th fairways along with the Brash

Lads I saw this birch tree with 6

trunks!

Triskadecfurcated

Thursday, 17th March, 2016

Unbelievable!!

13 trunks. Thirteen-pronged.

It has to be the most ever.

Unless you know better.

Mike Hanson showed your

editor this tree, just on the

left as you walk from the

13th green to the 14th tee.

Ladies Greensome, 10th March, 2016

2nd: Diane Houghton and Hilary Craven, 25 points

The winners with a score of 26 (11 holes!)

Lady Vice Captain, Barbara Leith and Isabel Wright

3rd: Lesley Williams and Janet Worthington, 25 points

Ladies v. Denton, Mail on Sunday Competition, Sunday, 13th March, 2016

After weeks of miserable weather, the sun shone on Sunday 13th March for our

ladies’ Mail on Sunday 2nd round match against Denton, played at home.

Each Romiley lady had to give shots ranging from 2 to 11. There was also the

added difficulty of having to get used to playing off the grass again (Mail on

Sunday rules).

I personally caddied for Diane Houghton and her opponent, although being

beaten, told us that she was happy to see a good player hitting such great shots.

Hilary Craven was the first to get a win with a resounding 6 & 5, closely followed

by Diane, 4 & 3, Astrid Ceelen, 5 & 4, Heather Denton, 3 & 2 and Denise Booth, 3

& 1. These scores don’t actually reflect how well the Denton Ladies played

so .... Very Well Done to Romiley and Thank You for playing so well!!

Denise Booth Hilary Craven Astrid Ceelen

Diane Houghton Heather Denton Author:

Pauline Walker

RUSSIAN STABLEFORD PAIRS , Saturday, 12th March 2016

Hole in One

“So. It might have taken me 60 years.

It might have been a half-caught 7 iron.

It might have been a temporary green on the

5th.

No. I didn’t see it go in the hole but

I DON’T CARE !

A hole in one is a hole in one and I was thrilled.”

So was your editor who just happened to be in

the bar when Malcolm got the whiskey! And it

was a malt!

1st Steve Brown & Dave Ogden 71

2nd John Ratledge & Gary Williams 63 3rd Nick Collins & Ken Wykes 61

Top Dog, Sunday, 13th March, 2016

Winners : John Allman and Gary Williams

Top Dog runners up: Captain and Pro

Competition of the day: Mark Jones and his son, Alex

Ladies’ Texas Scramble, Thursday, 17th March, 2016

1st Denise Booth, Astrid Ceelen and Heather Denton 55

Jill Woolstencroft, Janet Worthington and Hilary Craven 56.67

3rd: Diane Houghton, Anne Ludford and Liz Wilde, 58.34

AGM, Friday, 18th March, 2016

About fifty people attended the AGM and about fifty sent their apologies.

Significant and sobering was the fact that seventeen of our members had passed

on during the year. This was an historic AGM as the Ladies' Section has

aligned its year to that of the Men's Section. Janet Worthington and Irene

Barrow had survived 15 months in their respective roles.

The choreographed meeting zipped through and only hit the brakes as the out-

going Captains and Presidents made their speeches.

Rhyming couplets were Neil Brindley's choice

To tell of his year in an emotional voice

Of the support of all concerned with the Club.

Such emotion! We thought her might blub.

Voted through was the addition of an extra Director to the Board with the title

of "Development." Steve Hogg has taken on this challenging and exciting role.

The other major change is the abolition of the 4 day membership, with 4 and 5

day members now becoming 5 and 6 day members respectively.

Neil Brindley Gary Williams

Out-going Captain In-coming Captain

Vets’ Texas Scramble, Friday, 18th March, 2016

1st: Peter Cooke, Roly Hewitt & John Ratledge, 32 cpo

2nd: Andy Reed, Malcolm Booker & Gordon Taverner, 32

3rd: Kevin Ogden, Nigel Ingle & Bill Swindells, 33

Ladies’ Spring Meeting

Spring lambs may be in the fields but it

didn’t feel very spring-like on Thursday,

25th March, for the Ladies’ Spring Meeting.

Fortunately the forecasted heavy rain at

times didn’t materialise and the drizzle dried

up after a few holes for all the players on a

shotgun start, draw for partners, holes 1 to 3

then 8 to 18.

In the end the scores weren’t that important

because everyone received a prize, and in

fact some ladies could have taken home the

prize they brought if they had a mind to!

For those who didn’t play in the Ladies v Vets

it was the first time without their mat, and in

the rain equipment overload was a problem,

but the draw for partners produced some

excellent combinations and the scores were

good.

The winners had the privilege of first pick of

the prize table but all the prizes were of the

same value so it was just a matter of whether

to choose alcohol, smellies or golfing

paraphernalia.

Winners, and first to the prize table,

were Diane Houghton and Jackie

Glaze with 28 points

2nd to the table were Teresa Hogg and Val

Bonser with 26 points

3rd, Audrey Jones and Janet Worthington

with 25

Ladies’ Winter League

This winter the ladies have played a new format Winter League competition. It was a fairly relaxed,

front or back 9 at any time, Stableford on summer handicap. The average of the best six scores was

used to calculate the winners.

The players battled through all kinds of weather but were occasionally helped by a shortened course,

especially the 13th. With a stroke index of 4, there were reports of birdies for 5 points!

Anne Harrison’s average of 19.83 made her the clear winner and Audrey Jones scored 18.7 to come

second. Debs Kershaw only submitted five cards but her scores were so high that, even without the

sixth card, she came 3rd with 17.67. Lady Captain was fourth with 16.5 and Teresa Hogg fifth on

16.17.

An enjoyable competition, for most, and definitely one to watch out for next winter.

The winner, Anne Harrison, with an average of 19.83 2nd, Audrey Jones with average 18.17

3rd Debs Kershaw with average of 17.67

with her retro look. 4th with 16.50 Lady Captain, Irene Barrow

and 5th with 16.17, Teresa Hogg

John Boydell

John joined RGC on 1st January, 1980, about the same time as he and his wife,

Edith moved to Romiley. And what a natural golfer he was. Elegance

personified. With his laconic manner, his wicked, dry sense of humour he was a

joy to play with.

His main golfing buddy was another fine gentleman, Brian Lindley. As Brian

said, “We just gelled!” John was the first person he played with on joining the

Club and, for Brian, John was the last person he played with. They loved

playing in Senior Opens all over the place and usually did well.

John was always solicitous for his golfing pals. Just one example was when he

took Brian to the Alex Hospital, picking him up 03.45 and returning him at

22.30!!

It was during the year I was John’s Vice Chairman of the Vets’ that we began to

know each other well. I won’t forget his first occasion as Chairman. It wqas the

Vets’ Christmas dinner and we were just ready to chomp, knives and forks in

hand. John quietly said, “Please be upstanding whilst we say grace!” Knives

and forks were hastily put down. That’s John—doing the right thing.

John’s two passions were music and golf. Until Christmas he was still the

secretary of Gorton Philharmonic. In his earlier years, being a jazz fan, he

played the saxophone. On joining Gorton he played bassoon.

Keith Selby presenting John with the mechanical

golfer putting trophy!

Why was John so

successful as a golfer?

His putting. On the

Vets’ Chairman’s Day

there is always a putting

competition. Just 5

months ago John, aged

87, won it. He was

thrilled to win but not

thrilled by the prize as

he could hardly lift it!

John provided great

memories of a lovely

man. And he managed

something exceptional.

He died young as late as

possible.

John Glynn

Ladies v Vets match, 22nd March, 2016

The format for this annual needle match between the ladies and vets was a popular one, two ladies

verses two men, full handicap, best Stableford score, and the winner decided on points after 13

holes.

After 9 hole winter competitions it seemed hard work playing 13 holes, especially since it was the

first time without (love them or hate them) mats, and the lovely afternoon tea felt very well earned

and welcome afterwards

For one or two men Lady Luck was with them, especially the Vets’ Chairman Barry who declared

that he never hit the green in two on the first, but then his second shot hit the path and shot forward,

finishing 4 feet from the hole. His partner, Harvey Purcer, had lots of luck as well, and they went on

to win their match, but only one other pair of vets won their match, Jack Thomasson and Bill

Swindells, so the ladies won by four games to two, with some great scores. The Chairman’s wife,

Jackie Purcer, played well also and, together with Pam Cunnington, they scored 31 points. Teresa

Hogg and Audrey Jones gelled together well with 30 points and Janet Worthington and Janet

Godfrey beat Andy Reed and Mike Wilson with 29 to 25. Val Mackinnon and Edith Clarke also

won their match against Bill Barrow and Bob Simpson by 1 point.

The men were “Pretty well trounced,” observed Barry, as he went round the room berating his

normally reliable fellow vets. The Cup will be engraved accordingly, and very proud the ladies are

of their win. It doesn’t happen often!

Lady Captain being presented with flowers and the winners’ cup by a startled

looking Vets’ Chairman, Barry Johnson. He still can’t believe that the ladies won!

Romiley Golf Club

Evening Menu Served from 18.00 hrs > Late

Baguette of the Day (Ask for today's choice) £4.90

Grilled Gammon & Egg with Chips and Peas £8.50

Deep Fried Scampi, Chips, Peas & Tartare Sauce £6.50

Old English Sausages, Mashed Potatoes &Onion Gravy

(2 Sausages) £5.50

(3 Sausages) £6.50

Yorkshire Pudding filled with Mash, Sausages & Onion Gravy £6.00

Ham, Egg & Chips £6.00

Omelette, Chips & Salad from £5.50

(Choice of Ham, Mushroom or Cheese)

Bowl of Chips £1.50

Pot of Tea £1.20

Pot of Coffee £1.40

Pot of Decaffeinated Coffee £1.50

Ken and Pam Turney

Romiley Ladies Triumph Again!!

The 3rd round of the Mail on Sunday was a home draw against Macclesfield.

Based on availability of a number of ladies which I had determined at the ladies AGM, a few

Sundays and mid-week dates were offered, but they surprisingly chose Easter Sunday.

As there was a large booking between 10 and 12, we agreed to play just after 9 a.m., particularly

early, bearing in mind the clock change with an hour’s less sleep!

I had fielded a couple of players who hadn't played in previous matches but had every confidence in

their match play ability. The weather, although fairly windy, was a lot better than the forecast.

The result speaks for itself:

Romiley 3.5, Macclesfield 1.5

Very Well Done to Denise, Diane, Linda, Lady Captain (Irene) and Heather!!!

Also thanks to Irene who took over the team captaincy for the day as I didn't feel up to it following

recent surgery.

As always, thanks to Peter, Mike and the Greens staff for the condition of the course.

Pauline Walker

The winning team: Denise Booth, Linda Moore, Lady Captain, Irene Barrow,

Heather Denton and Diane Houghton, with caddies, Edith Clarke and Anne Ludford.

JUNIOR SECTION

On Wednesday, 23rd March, the Junior Section held a pre-season meeting -

presentation, chat and rules quiz. Plans for the season, including our

involvement in the Derbyshire and Cheshire League and details of group and

squad coaching and in Club competitions were explained. There was a short

rules quiz and presentations to the winners of the Junior Winter League were

made.

Because of bad weather the Winter League was reduced from ten to seven 9

hole competitions. The winner was the person who recorded the best four

rounds. Brooke Snape won the competition and was presented with a carry bag.

In second place was Aaron Bardsley. Aaron has been playing golf for only a

short time and it was lovely to see his commitment and endeavour rewarded.

He was presented with a golf cap and four balls.

Junior Match Play Knockout:

This competition has been played during the winter months over 14 holes. The

semi finals were played on Good Friday. The Junior Captain, Matt Murray,

was the victor in the first semi-final, beating Brook Snape 2 and 1.

In the other semi-final one of our youngest and most promising members, Luca

Knowles, beat Bradley Snape – 2 up.

Alex Walker with Brooke Snape and Bob Blundell

Men’s Monthly Medal, 26th March, 201

1st Division

“Consistent play, Mike?” enquired your editor. “More like consistent scramble,”

was Mike’s reply.

2nd Division

1st Dave Blood 79-10c=69 2nd Graham Nuttall 81-10c=71 3rd John Walker 83-11c=72

3rd Division

1st Simon Tipping 99-20c=79 2nd Pete Drinkwater 106-24c=82 3rd Nick Gorman 103-21c=82

1st Mike Murray, 80-8=72 2nd: Craig Oakes 79-7=7 23rd: Alex Barber-Bennett 78-5=73

Bisque Bogey, 31st March, 2016

Division 1

Division 2

An unusual competition where players can choose where to use their shots. Lots of head

scratching and decisions to be made, and these six ladies obviously came to the right

conclusion and used their allowance wisely.

Irene Barrow, a/s Val Bonser, 1 down Liz Wilde, 1 down

Janet Worthington 3 Up Angela Slate, 2 Up Alison Reed, 1 Up

CAPTAINS’ CORNER

Mr Captain 2015/16, Neil Brindley, says farewell

Today is not something I’ve looked forward to, so I thought best to

rehearse,

And somehow I ended up writing this whole speech in rhyming verse.

Now I would advise it’s not something for which I have a natural knack,

So if I use artistic license in places, please do cut me some slack!

Twelve months ago I donned the Captain’s blazer with a sense of immense

pride,

And to coin a phrase, it really has been, one heck of a ride!

You already know I started out some 30 years ago as a caddy,

And have tried to balance up being Captain, working full time, being a husband and a daddy.

I was actually relaxing with a pint last week and reflecting back,

To when I got the initial call from Gordon MacDonald, or to us youngsters, G-Mac.

I remember the mixed feelings of being both excited and scared,

Wondering could I do justice to this Club, about which I’ve always deeply cared?

It’s been a real honour to have been Captain of our Club where we all share the same goal,

Which is of course in the fewest shots, to get that damn ball into the hole!

My thanks go to last year’s Captain, Andy, for during my time as Vice showing me the reins,

It really was a great help in ensuring there were as few as possible teething pains.

Last year I promised to try my utmost to represent the Club in a manner deemed best,

I guess in reality it is you that will determine whether I passed that test.

Whether or not there are things differently that I could have done,

I can hand on my heart say it was both a privilege and great fun!

I guess the year got off to a start that was not what I was hoping to see,

As the rain poured down at the drive-in, out on the 10th tee.

Fortunately the weather seemed to make my nerves on the day somewhat

taper,

And straight down the middle went my drive, thanks to my new club

#NikeVapor!

I hope you’ll agree that the Club’s communication and online presence continues to get better,

And that is certainly in part due to our website, Facebook account and brilliant in-house

Newsletter.

With Phil Roberts, Audrey Jones and my old headmaster, John Glynn – an editorial dream team

indeed,

If communications continue as they have in the past, the Club can do nothing but succeed.

Unfortunately we didn’t fare well in the inter-club knockouts in which Romiley were matched,

With most of the teams being rather quickly despatched.

I would like to extend my thanks to all the team organisers for a start,

And follow that up with gratitude to all the players who took part.

We were however victorious once more

in our annual match against the St

Anne’s Old Links team,

And once more we were able to smile,

like the cat who got the proverbial

cream.

Hopefully aided by the organisation and selection skills of Colin Davies we haven’t reached our

peak,

I am really pleased our new caterers seem to have, the previous legacy shook,

And I wish them Ken and Pam for the future the continued best of luck.

I once said in a newsletter “you can’t make an omelette without breaking a few eggs”,

Touch wood we have achieved that, so keep ordering food and emptying those beer kegs!

To thank everyone for their kind and generous contributions is a must,

To the Captains’ charities, the Neo-Natal Unit of UHSM and Teenage

Cancer Trust.

Your donations have been so gratefully received and the total raised

does now stand,

At a truly incredible total of just under six grand!

There is one event I could talk about all day and that is the Captain’s Weekend,

Into a once in lifetime experience did it most certainly transcend.

I really would not have changed anything, not in one single way,

From welcoming all the golfers for round one, through to the prize

presentation the next day!

I stated last year I have a passion for music and the loop-pedalling artist,

(Ethan Jay), was an act to behold,

With the addition of a magician I could not have asked for more, truth be told.

My congratulations again to Matt Reed, winner of the Weekend’s main prize,

and no golfing mug,

And I hope he (along with the other Captains’ prize winners) enjoyed their

replica Claret Jug.

On two other golfing occasions, no others were able

to prevent,

The Captain’s team winning both the Hugs and the

Am-Am event,

I remember presenting the prizes for the latter in

unbearable heat,

And Gary can carry on where this has been left off

and continue our winning streak.

Collecting the main prize this July for the third time

There were many enjoyable social events in the year that I was delighted to attend,

And the continual efforts of the social team, I have to commend.

With some wonderful artists from the first event through to New Year’s Eve,

Including a Neil Diamond tribute, and a sensational female act, last name Jordan, first name

Nieve.

I also hope those involved enjoyed as much as I did the away

weekend to Oulton Hall,

A great setting; brilliant company; more than a few beers - I

certainly had a ball!

Unfortunately for the President, to the Captain’s team did the team

spoils go,

And the individual prize went to Mr. Smith, no not that one, but young Joe!

One of the other biggest highlights of the year, was without a shadow of doubt,

Partnering our Lady Captain and successfully winning the mixed Knock-out.

Janet was a fantastic partner, and reflect back happily on that day I certainly

always will,

Especially as it was rounded off by Arsenal beating Manchester United; three-nil!

To see recently the Clubhouse full of joviality was certainly a good sight,

Complemented well by the entertainment provided by our guest speaker, Austin

Knight.

I am referring of course to the 19th of February and the annual Gent’s Dinner,

I guess with free wine AND free port, we were always going to be on to a winner!

There are so many other people to whom for their help I will always owe huge

debts;

From both the Men’s and the Ladies section, right through to the Vets,

To everyone involved in Incomes, Handicaps, Opens, Juniors, AM-AM, Mixed

committees and the Greens,

Words will never do justice to just how much your invaluable work means!

My thanks also go to the Chairman, and everyone on the Board of Directors,

And to those who were on it but retired, for the purpose of rhyme, let’s call them

defectors

Without you my calendar would have been chaotic and meetings in my diary

would have been rife,

Your help has been very much appreciated and instrumental in minimising strife!

A thank you must go to Alex and Graham, two

brilliant assets for our Club,

Despite all their support their golfing capabilities

onto me did not rub.

I’m not going to ask Alex’s wife, Nicola, how the

summer evenings away they whiled,

I will just wish them both all the very best for the

upcoming arrival of their first child!

If I have missed out thanking anybody then I would express my genuine regret,

It was not intentional as it is down to everyone I had a year I will never forget!

It is so very difficult to express thanks at a high enough level,

Each and every member of this Club has allowed me in the past year to revel!

I have enjoyed so much with the Lady Captain, Mr President and Junior

Captain sharing this year,

And with Gary, Irene, David and Matt the Club is in good hands, of that

there’s no fear.

To Barbara Leith and Steve Harrison, I offer you only this one piece of advice,

And that is to enjoy your year thoroughly as Mr, and Lady Vice!

Joking apart I would like to express my thanks to both Gary and indeed to

Irene,

I think you have both been excellent Vices, and to me a great help you have

been.

I wish you nothing less than a Captain’s term in office that is filled to the

rafters with glee,

And hope, as it was for me, it’s one of the very best years in your history!

As with the AGM report, I reserve the

biggest thanks to Rachel, my amazing

wife,

Who has been so incredibly supportive

in this particularly hectic year of our

life.

Once more she is home alone with our

son and is perhaps relieved this year

has come to an end,

And for what she has done, all my love

and eternal thanks I do send!

As I have just referenced Gary, for his upcoming

appointment I’ve had this recurring concern,

Will the microphone conk out when presenting prizes as

it did when it was my turn?

If it does then a back-up plan’s needed, and one that

can be implemented in a manner that’s swift,

And so with that in mind I took the liberty of buying

Gary this megaphone as a parting gift!

Past Lady Captain

Well, my time as Lady Captain has finally come to an end. I would just like to

say that I have had a very enjoyable year and it has been an honour and

privilege to have been Lady Captain.

I feel that on the whole my year has gone well and I

would like to express my thanks to all of you for

your support. It has really been appreciated.

The final figure for the charities stands at

£5,830.10. Thank you all for your generosity.

Finally, I would like to wish Mr Captain Gary,

Lady Captain Irene, Mr President David and

Junior Captain Matt all the best for their

forthcoming year.

Janet

I was telling my son yesterday about how my

year was ending, and he said with a tear in

his eye,

“Will people still talk to you and buy you a

beer, after you’ve said “goodbye”?”

I said I didn’t know what people would do

when the course of my Captaincy had

run,This caused Oliver to break down crying,

so please……..if not for me – for my son

And now with great sadness I realise my time

has ended, tomorrow I’ll be a thing of the past,

But at least I can say I have enjoyed it, in fact

it’s been an absolute blast.

And as the saying goes, it is out with the old, and

in with the new,

So Gary with very best wishes for a great year –

it’s over to you!

Thank you

Neil

Lady Captain

Hello to my first Captain’s Report!

Well, my extended time as Lady-Vice has ended! After the Ladies ‘AGM on Tuesday

15th March and the Club AGM on Friday, 18th March my year as Lady Captain has

officially begun. I can only reiterate what all the previous Lady Captains have said

before me, that it is an honour and privilege to be Lady Captain of Romiley Golf Club. I

hope that we all have a great year together.

Mr Captain and I have chosen to have a joint charity this year which is the Alzheimer’s

Society. This is a well deserving charity which provides help not only to the sufferers, but

to the carers who also need assistance and support to deal with this very personal disease.

We will be hoping to raise money over the year with various events, so thank you in

anticipation for any support you can give.

Now down to golf! The Drive-In - This is always a nerve racking experience for the

incoming Captains, President and Junior Captain. However, under the scrutiny of the

supporters and the watchful eye of the drone, which was very “Thunderbirds are Go”

and operated by “Scott Tracey” aka David Blood, there was no need for “International

Rescue” as we all got the ball away – great sighs of relief all round! The golf afterwards

was changed into a front and back 8-hole comp - this went down well with those who

wanted to dash off to the City vs United match later that afternoon – can’t understand

why?! The golf competition was well supported, the sun shone and it was great to take

off some of the winter layers – although Mr President did manage to lose his brand new

jumper on the 16th, which Mr Captain took great delight in pulling his leg about. The

Yorkshire pudding, sausage and mash served for lunch went down really well - another

success for Ken and Pam, our caterers.

Vets vs Ladies - I wouldn’t say this is a “needle match”, but the Vets always like to win!

There is a lot of banter about handicaps and shots received, but it is a really nice

competition to play in. Lady-Vice Captain Barbara Leith and myself were no match for

Vets Chair, Barry Johnson, and his Vice, Harvey Purcer, who were both on form and

played very well. However, Barry’s was dismayed to find that the result was a loss for his

invincible team. No doubt talks in the “dressing room” would take place later about this

relegation. We all look forward to our next match in September.

The ladies’ Spring Meeting wasn’t really very spring-like, but fortunately we didn’t get

too wet, although the winter layers did go back on with a

vengeance. Hot turkey and ham muffins, with the ever

important chips, were followed by the prize giving. The

nice thing about this competition is that everyone’s a

winner, as we all go home with a prize.

On Easter Sunday morning the ladies’ team played and

won the third round of the Mail on Sunday at home

against Macclesfield. Again we got away with the

weather, only one really heavy shower. Well done to the

team and our match organiser Pauline Walker – a really

good start to the season. Finally, I would just like to say

that I’m looking forward o playing in the Club

competitions throughout the year and I would like to

wish everyone good luck with their golf, wonderful

weather and a great season.

President’s Ponderings

It was a great pleasure to assume the role of president of Romiley Golf Club at the 2016 AGM.

Whilst savouring the occasion, I was reminded that a contribution to the newsletter would be

most welcome.

First of all, I would like to again offer my congratulations to Gary, Irene and our Junior

Captain Matt Murray on their appointments. Both the Captain and Lady Captain have great

strengths to bring to the board. Also congratulations to Steve Hogg and Neil Brindley on their

appointments.

In our advertisement offering new membership to the Cub we describe ourselves as one of the

finest and friendliest clubs in Cheshire. This was not more evident than at the Captain’s Drive

In. On a glorious sunny day the four of us were made so relaxed and comfortable by everyone

with their light banter, congratulations and kind words. I must say that celebrating the

occasion with a glass of champagne relaxed us even further. A large thank you to Neil

McRoberts and family.

Thanks also to Alex and Graham for their part in ensuring the drive-in worked with their

usual slick efficiency. Equally enjoyable was the 8 hole Better Ball Stableford. I partnered

Matt Murray and enjoyed the company of my lovely wife, Elsie, and good friend, Roger

Ashworth. Matt – I hope you have recovered.

Matt has already excelled as a junior at both football and cricket, and he is now prioritising

his efforts and concentration on golf, already driving the ball over 300 yards. I am backing

you to have a great future in the game.

The morning was rounded off by an excellent brunch served by Pam, Ken and their team and

the prize presentation by the Captain.

Congratulations to Duncan Challen and Colin Davies and Sharon Dineen and Heather Denton

on their excellent scores of 22 points. Handicap Chairman – Take Note!!

Sadly, my high spirits were short-lived following the result of our local football Derby.

Playing golf at Romiley has been a huge end enjoyable part

of my life for 20 years and I have made many friends. This

year as President I am hoping to get to know and play with

more members in our Saturday and mixed competitions,

joining in with the Vets and supporting Bob Blundell and

the junior section.

I am very much looking forward to my President’s Weekend

in August which, interestingly, will be 85 years since the first

‘President’s Dinner’ held in July, 1931.I hope many of you

will join me in celebrating my year in the Saturday and

Sunday competitions which will be followed by an afternoon

and evening of entertainment on the Sunday.

I would finally like to take this opportunity to wish everyone

an enjoyable and successful year of golf.

Dave Heyward, President

What’s on at Romiley Golf Club in April

FRIDAY, 1st April 2016

Quiz night with quiz master Chris Broster

7.30 prompt start. Last of the season.

SUNDAY, 10th April, 2016

12.30 pm to 2.30 pm.

2 or 3 courses with carvery

FRIDAY, 15th April, 2016

Fish and steak night. 6 pm to 8 pm

Book with Ken or Pam

SATURDAY, 16th April, 2016

4 pm Lottery Draw

SUNDAY, 10th April, 2016

12.30 pm to 2.30 pm.

2 or 3 courses with carvery

SUNDAY 24th and MONDAY 25th April, 2016

Ladies’ Sunday Driver at Hill Valley

FRIDAY, 29th April, 2016

Vets’ Spring Dinner

THURSDAY, 5th May, 2016

Nellie Oldham Bowl Par competition

followed by evening presentation

Editorial Team

Audrey Jones Phil Roberts John Glynn