Axe Cliff Golf Club hosted a Seniors Mixed Invitational Open competition on the same day of the England against Sweden quarter-final, writes Dave Bruce.

Midweek Herald: Barbara CummingsBarbara Cummings (Image: Archant)

Despite a relatively small field, it was a superb event with excellent weather and with the course in great shape, despite the very dry and hard conditions, thanks to the hard work of our greens staff of Simon and Andy.

To accommodate the footie fanatics it was brought forward by an hour. This helped to create a wonderful atmosphere in the clubhouse as the competitors, whilst checking their cards, were joined by a large party of holidaymakers to watch the match. When England scored and then won, you could hear the screams on the Seaton beach and promenade. Even the presentation was delayed until half-time.

The winners were the strong mix of Rob Grove, Barbara Cummings, Jo Donmall and guest Max Pipe with an amazing 89 points. It was played as a stableford with the best man and best woman’s scores on each hole allowing only 90% of handicap. In second spot came Fran Shrubsole, Penny Lye, Dave Maggs and the only home player but great choice in Dave Sammons.

Last Friday, on a beautiful sunny day but with a small very welcome breeze, a good field fought out the Monthly Medal with Phil Christmas showing his improved swing to win, on countback, from Alan Morgan with a nett 72. Not far behind, separated also on countback, came Richard Orsman and Brian Thompson, both on nett 73.