WHILE a decent spell of Spring weather is still awaited, thanks largely to Course Manager, Dylan Stokes and his greenkeeping team, acceptable playing conditions greeted Ross Golf Club members and invited guests at the club's annual charity mid-week Invitation event, reports KEITH RAY.

With the day in the capable care of the men's seniors aged 55+ Committee, new Seniors Captain Paul Burry designated the Gloucester-based Cotswold Downs Syndrome Group (Friends of Daniella) where their valued services benefit Paul's grandson, Quinn, as his charity.

The support and encouragement indicative of the 'helping others' culture at the Gorsley-based club resulted in a marvellous £1,000 contribution to Paul's fundraising campaign.

Phil Holmes and son-in-law Matthew Harrhy, who plays at Tredegar Park GC, were again found in the No 1 position to record an extraordinary 2022-24 hat-trick.

With both Phil and notably Matthew in good form and Phil's two birdies and Matthew's one meant their 46 stableford points was never likely to be seriously threatened.

Nigel Yates and guest James Bralee from Puckrup Hall GC were runners-up with 44 points followed by Nigel Allen and guest Martyn Brown from Painswick Hill GC, also on 44.

Andy Petersen and his guest Gary Lawrence from Monmouthshire GC were also among the prizes with 43 points with Gary taking home a raffle prize.

Colin Price and Andy Baldwin were the main workhorses on the Seniors organising Committee, and paid tribute to the support they received.

This especially included Director of Golf and Head Professional Tim Hall for his THSG sponsorship covering the raffle and subsidiary prizes, plus Tim's Assistant Professional Zach Galliford who raised £250 denying entrants in the 'beat the Pro' challenge at the par 3 seventh.

Wendy Ancrum and Jenny Reeve-Tucker were the 'welcoming wonders' on Reception and Club President Graeme Forrester, and former Seniors Captain's Tim Rigden and Keith Ray, managed starting arrangements.

And thanks also to Patrick Curtis for course marshalling and additional support provided by Rebecca Boucher and team, also the Club's Caterers, and not forgetting administrators Ashton Davies and Emma Wilson.