AXE CLIFF - Seventeen teams took part in the fifth round of the Seniors' Winter League programme on Friday last, writes Janet Dack.

Scoring conditions were excellent and this was reflected in the returns with three pairings amassing 38 points.

The winners on the day were Chris Jowett/Bob Graham on countback. Second place, on the same basis, went to Gerry Turner/Martin Wallbank with Terry Jessup/Rob Heard having to settle for third place. Chris Jowett scored the only two of the day.

?This weeks' men’s Winter League resulted in three pairs scoring 40 points. However, on the back nine ruling, the winners were Anthony Chadwick (12) and Gareth Richardson (12). Second place were David Quinn (10) and Brett Garner (11). Brian Waller (19) and Mike Cottam (10) took third.

?Ladies’ Section - Before the Ladies’ Christmas Lunch took place with members old and new a nine hole Greensome Stableford was played in extremely wintry weather.

The winners were Pat Ayshford and Hazel Williamson. Second place went to Lesley Crawford and Chris Drew and in third place were Glenda Board and Bee Salmon. All winners were presented with a very attractive Christmas hyacinth arrangement.

HONITON - I was going to write about how John and I (your reporter) surged to another Sun Am Winter League, last hole, fluky win until I heard in the clubhouse about an even more spectacular result, writes Andy Wagner.

Matt Bond arrived on the tee and found himself having to face club captain Tim Avery and partner Dave Maggs completely alone. Not only that but he was having to give a shed-load of shots. Undaunted, he set to the task with his usual considered resolve and swept to a 6 and 4 victory. Tim is no stranger to excellent play, having nurtured a son, Jason, who is developing in the game as a very promising professional, and was generous in his praise for Matt's achievements. As for Matt's partner, no names no pack drill, I think he can take the rest of the winter off!

?Due to the course being closed in the early part of the day, the Tuesday Mixed organisers Jennifer and Richard Pyle, had an excellent contingency plan - a Christmas Tree Drive - very similar to a Beetle drive- incorporating the prizes which would have been for the Bring and Win. All those due to play assembled in the clubhouse for a most enjoyable morning followed by lunch . The prize table looked very festive - everybody won - nobody lost - what a great idea!

?Ladies Section - the Wednesday competition was cancelled as a mark of respect for Sheila Banks who died recently, and to enable members to attend her funeral which was held on Wednesday.

Sheila's family provided a reception at the clubhouse after the funeral which was graced with a photo of the ever-smiling Sheila and a slogan saying 'Grandmas are just antique little girls'. She will be very much missed.