AGM MINUTES and SEASONS REVIEWS
PTF GOLF SOCIETY - 2024 AGM
Friday 22nd November 2024
Ye Olde Dolphin Inne, Derby
Attending : Nathan Richards, Chris Boffey, Colin Asbury, Andy Haines, Paul Hind, Dave Hancock, Nathan Meakin, Malc Cope, Ian Johnson, Ranbir Sahota
Apologies : Michael Coleman, Kev Ling, Carl Warren, Rob Preston, Steve Armitage, Kev Guilford, Graham Bielby, Lionel Jones, Mick Lister, Aidan Gale
Meeting opened by Nathan Richards at 19:15pm
Nathan supplied a copy of a 2024 Season Review which will be published on the Website.
OFFICIALS
Chris Boffey was thanked again for all his efforts during his reign as Captain in 2024 before the captaincy for the 2025 season was officially handed over to Colin Asbury.
Colin confirmed his Vice Captain for 2025 to be Ben Horspool.
It was confirmed that Nathan Richards will continue as Secretary and Treasurer in 2025 to oversee all the Society’s off course activities with Andy Haines to continue as Vice-Treasurer.
It was confirmed that Nathan Richards will continue as Handicap Secretary as part of his Secretary duties.
TREASURERS REPORT
Nathan supplied copies of 2024’s financial transactions, which ended with a balance of £645.
Nathan highlighted 2024 had seen a loss of £450 however, as agreed at 2023’s AGM, money from the excessive overall balance we had was purposely used up during the 2024 season by subsidising the 3 x highest priced events at Trentham, Radcliffe, and Leek along with the additional Divisional prize money now paid for each event. Nathan also highlighted extra prize money had to be paid out at a few events due to errors when working out shares of the ‘2’s’ Pot. Additionally, that Burton GC hadn’t refunded Green Fees for players not playing in the re-scheduled Invitational Event in July that played in the original abandoned event in June but due to a misunderstanding Nathan had already refunded the money to some of those players before that was known. Nathan confirmed ‘Blackout’s had again been a great success in adding to the Society funds and would be continued to be run at Society events throughout the 2025 season. Nathan confirmed deposits have since been paid for all 2025’s events and highlighted again the high cost that golf clubs were charging for booking 27-hole days and to be a discussion point later in AOB. It was agreed that the cost of Annual Subscriptions for 2025 are to continue at £15.Subs MUST be paid by 1st March to join for the 2025 season and entry into the Clive Dawson Trophy. Nathan confirmed again that the preferred method for Annual Subs and all other payments is via Bank Transfer and the Society Account details are included on all E-Mails. Free Annual Subs for the 2025 season go to Nathan Meakin after winning the Members Prize Draw.
HANDICAPS
Discussions took place regarding Handicaps for the Society’s Individual Stableford events
A proposal was made to continue to play all Individual Stableford events off ¾ Handicaps.
A counter proposal was made to play Individual Stableford events off FULL Handicaps.
A vote was taken and it was agreed that all Individual Stableford events will continue to be played of ¾ Handicaps in 2025.
It was agreed that all Team events will continue to be played of ¾ Handicaps as in previous seasons. It was agreed that the maximum Handicap for a Society member will continue to be 36. It was agreed that new members to the Society having their initial Handicap capped at a maximum of 25 will continue and be eligible for a Handicap increase following an Individual event within their first season. The Society’s long standing ‘Handicap Adjustment Rules’ were again reviewed and it was agreed that no changes were currently required but to continue to be reviewed at every AGM. Nathan confirmed Kev Ling had submitted a proposal reference the introduction of ‘My England Golf’ Handicaps for any applicable Society Members. After lengthy discussion it was unanimously agreed that any Handicap systems used for golf clubs cannot be applied within a society nor deemed as required. It was therefore agreed to continue to use Society Handicaps for all events by decreasing/increasing Handicaps under the existing ‘Handicap Adjustment Rules’ with the Handicap page of the website updated after each event.
It was agreed that only the 6 x ‘Order of Merit’ events will continue to result in Handicap increases/reductions in 2025. It was agreed that Handicap reductions will continue to NOT apply for winning ‘Divisional’ Prize Money in any of the 6 x ‘Order of Merit’ events.
It was agreed that the Handicap Secretary will continue to reset a members Society Handicap to their current Club Handicap after 12 x ‘Order of Merit’ events without receiving a society handicap reduction following a prize money finish. However, discussion took place on how worthwhile this rule is as no player since it’s introduction at 2022’s AGM has had their Society Handicap reset. It was agreed to keep the rule in place for 2025 and will be reviewed further at 2025’s AGM.
ORDER OF MERIT/AGGREGATE TROPHY
Congratulations were again given to Dave Hancock on topping the ‘Order of Merit’ and his Aggregate Trophy win in 2024. It was agreed that the best 4 x Stableford points scores from 6 x ‘Order of Merit’ events (Spring Salver, Presidents Cup, Invitational Trophy, Summer Vase, Tourist Trophy and Autumn Cup) will continue to count towards the Aggregate Trophy title in 2025.
It was agreed that a ‘keepsake Trophy’ and £60 prize money will again be presented to the winner as in previous seasons along with the main Aggregate Trophy. Nathan highlighted that Kev Ling had sent in a proposal and in promoting members to attend more days out to introduce additional ‘Order of Merit’ for each Handicap Division with Society Members in each Division applicable to their Handicap at start of the season on 1st March.
The proposal was unanimously accepted and the additional Divisional ‘Order of Merit’ competitions with the same best 4 x Stableford points scores from 6 x ‘Order of Merit’ events will be introduced for the 2025 season. Discussion took place whether Prize Money or a ‘keepSake Trophy should be awarded to the winners. A vote was taken, and it was agreed to award a ‘keepsake Trophy’ to the Divisional ‘Order of Merit’ winners.
CLIVE DAWSON TROPHY
It was highlighted that with 75 members entering 2024’s competition that a Prelim Round was required and despite the dreadful spring/summer another great effort was made by Members to get the round matches played before each deadline. Congratulations were again given to 2024’s winner Craig Bond and beaten finalist Brian Edwards. It was confirmed that Nathan Richards, Colin Asbury, Ben Horspool and Graham Bielby are the Committee for 2025’s event.
It was agreed that Prize Money of 1st £50 and 2nd £30 will remain the same as in previous seasons. Lengthy discussion took place in reference to a small minority of Society Members who have a greater Society Handicap than their Club Handicap due to not playing in many society events in recent season’s which is seen as an unfair advantage in Clive Dawson Trophy matches. This was acknowledged and a suggestion to introduce a rule to eliminate members from the following season’s Clive Dawson Trophy unless they attend a minimum of 2 x society events was made but unanimously rejected and not deemed as required. Additionally, Nathan highlighted that as Society Handicaps currently have no relationship with a members Club
Handicap a proposal would be needed to re-introduce the Handicap rule where a members Society Handicap can never be higher than their Club Handicap. However, no proposal was made. It was therefore agreed that all Clive Dawson matches in 2025 will continue to be played off FIXED Society Handicap at the start of the competition on 1st March.
Nathan confirmed this Handicap list and competition rules are included as always in the Clive Dawson Trophy details sent out with each round draw throughout the season.
It was agreed that Members with a Handicap above 28 will continue to have this capped at 28 in all Clive Dawson matches. It was confirmed that FULL Handicap difference for each match would again apply again as per R&A rules for Individual Matchplay.
Members are to ensure Clive Dawson round matches in 2025 are completed by the date deadlines as below:
SATURDAY 1st MARCH – PRELIM ROUND DRAW
THURSDAY 3rd APRIL – PRELIM ROUND COMPLETE
FRIDAY 4th APRIL – 1ST ROUND DRAW
THURSDAY 15th MAY – 1ST ROUND COMPLETE
FRIDAY 16th MAY – 2ND ROUND DRAW
THURSDAY 19th JUNE – 2ND ROUND COMPLETE
FRIDAY 20th JUNE – 3RD ROUND DRAW
THURSDAY 17th JULY – 3RD ROUND COMPLETE
FRIDAY 18th JULY – 4TH ROUND DRAW (Quarter-Final)
THURSDAY 7th AUGUST – 4TH ROUND COMPLETE
FRIDAY 8th AUGUST – SEMI-FINAL DRAW
THURSDAY 22nd AUGUST – SEMI FINAL’s COMPLETE
THURSDAY 11th SEPTEMBER – FINAL TO BE PLAYED BEFORE THIS DATE AT A NEUTRAL VENUE
Comment was passed that every effort should be made by both finalists to play the Final BEFORE our last day out on Friday 12th September to enable the Trophy to be presented on the day.
PRIZES
Nathan confirmed that all 2025’s keepsake trophies would again be ordered from Bob at Rayal Trophies. It was re-highlighted that ALL Trophies should continue to be returned to Nathan by the existing trophy holder no later than a month before this season’s applicable event.
It was agreed that Prize Money in the Individual Stableford event would continue as in previous seasons with 1st £50, 2nd £30 and 3rd £20 awarded.
It was agreed that Handicap ‘Divisional’ prize money would continue for all ‘Order of Merit’ events with £15 prize money to each winner of the 3 x Handicap Divisions in each applicable event. It was agreed that the winning prize money of £10 per man in Team events would continue as in previous seasons. It was agreed that 2 x £10 ‘Nearest the Pin’ prizes would continue in both the morning Team event and afternoon Individual Stableford events in 2025.
It was agreed ‘Blind Sweepstake’ prize money of £20 to the winner who draws the name of the winning Golfer of each Individual Stableford event to continue in 2025.
It was agreed ‘Missed Green’ fines on the 2 x ‘Nearest the Pin’ holes only would remain at £1 per Green missed in the Individual Stableford events in 2025. It was agreed the ‘2’s’ Competition in the Individual Stableford events only will continue as in previous seasons.
Nathan confirmed the ‘Hole in One’ pot has now reached the cap set at £200 and will be presented to the next Golfer who achieves this feat in any Society event which for clarity includes a ‘Hole in One’ in any Clive Dawson match or Team Match e.g. John Layne Trophy.
A Reserve Pot as previously done in 2018 will now start and again be topped up by ‘Missed Green’ fines during the season.
2025 DATES & VENUES
Nathan confirmed 2025’s venues have been booked and deposits paid as follows:
Tue 22nd APRIL ATHERSTONE (27 Holes)
Fri 16th MAY LINGDALE (27 Holes)
Fri 13th JUNE BURTON (18 Holes)
Fri 18th JULY SCRAPTOFT (27 Holes)
Fri 12th SEPT SANDWELL PARK (18 Holes)
WEEKEND AWAY
Nathan confirmed 2025’s Weekend Away is booked/deposit paid with Findagolfbreak for a maximum of 36 in Bridlington with a 2 night/3 rounds of Golf on Friday, Saturday, Sunday 1st 2nd & 3rd August staying in the Belvedere Hotel at Bridlington GC and playing at Hainsworth Park, Flamborough Head and Bridlington. Nathan confirmed 2025’s trip has seen a reduction in cost back down to £290 and also includes ‘Hot Buffet’ Meal each evening back at the Hotel. Details of the Weekend have already been sent out to the Membership with £40 deposits paid and a waiting list now in for place for spaces as they become available. Final Weekend numbers MUST be confirmed and full balance paid by Friday 6th June.
Nathan confirmed the events for the Weekend are scheduled and weather permitting as follows –
The ‘Friday Fiver’ Individual Stableford and Phil Gerrish Trophy Team event between PTF and EOS Society members will be played on the Friday 1st August at Hainsworth Park
The ‘Tourist Trophy’ will be played on the Saturday 2nd August at Flamborough Head
The ‘Sunday Stab’ Individual Stableford and ‘Shirkers’ v ‘Workers’ Trophy Team event will be played on Sunday 3rd August at Bridlington
PTF INVITATIONAL TROPHY
Nathan commented on the fantastic turnout of 101 Golfers including over 50 guests lining up at Burton for the original event in early June. However, re-occurring Thunderstorms during the afternoon sadly left no option but to abandon the event at around 16:45pm with the Course waterlogged and unfit for further play with the later groups having played just a few holes.
Burton kindly allowed us to quickly re-schedule the whole event for mid-July with 81 members/guests playing in the re-run and a great afternoon’s golf was enjoyed by all as we were blessed with glorious sunshine this time around Nathan confirmed 2025’s event is booked again at Burton on Friday 13th June with details to be E-mailed out early
in 2025 where he hoped to achieve similar numbers with 27 x Tee Times booked from 11:40am-16:00pm giving a maximum of 108 x places available on the afternoon and Society members again encouraged to bring guests to continue its strength as being one of the largest Society events run in the Midlands.
‘WINTER WARMER’ MEMORIAL TROPHY
Nathan confirmed 2023’s ‘Winter Warmer’ Memorial Trophy event over the Christmas break had to be postponed and was re-arranged for a 3rd consecutive season. After consulting with members throughout the season the decision was taken not to arrange 2024’s event over the Christmas Break and to arrange an alternative event in late March or at the end of the season instead in late October. It was agreed to hold the event in late October as an end of season ‘get together’ at Morley Hayes on the preferred dates of Saturday 18th or 25th October.
Nathan to confirm a booking with Morley Hayes and will send out details once confirmed.
PHIL GERRISH TROPHY
Congratulations were given to the winning PTF team members who won the Trophy on the Friday of the Weekend Away at Prestatyn with EOS now just leading 6-5 in overall Trophy wins.
It was agreed that the event would be played again on the Friday of the Weekend Away at Hainsworth Park between a team of PTF and EOS Members.
‘SHIRKERS’ v ‘WORKERS’ TROPHY
Congratulations were given to the winning ‘Shirkers’ team who won the Trophy on the Sunday of the Weekend Away at Abergele where the ‘Workers’ were originally declared as winners of the team Stableford event on the day However, after a steward’s enquiry and a point re-count when compiling the results, it turned out the ‘Shirkers’ actually won the Trophy and now lead by 3 wins to 1 overall. Nathan confirmed we now have a Trophy in place for the event.
It was agreed that the event would be played again on the Sunday of the Weekend Away at Bridlington between a team of Past (Shirkers) and Present (Workers) RR employees.
CAPTAINS TROPHY
Congratulations were given to Chris Boffey for winning the Trophy in 2024. It was agreed that the Captains Trophy would continue to be presented at the end of the season to the current/past Captain who finishes in the highest position in the ‘Order of Merit’.
JOHN LAYNE TROPHY
Comment was passed about 2025’s match against C4/C9 where we suffered a whitewash and our heaviest defeat 6-0 on the Priory Course at Breadsall and the Auld Enemy retaining the Trophy again although we still have our noses in front with 14 Trophy wins to 12 overall.
Nathan confirmed 2025’s event is booked at Breadsall (Moorland course) on Friday 27
th June at 15:10pm. Nathan is to communicate with Fraser Gibbs and C4 organiser Tim Evans nearer the event to confirm numbers.
GRAHAM SHEARD TROPHY
Comment was passed about 2025’s match against C4/C9 where we suffered a narrower defeat to the TBF on the Moorland Course at Breadsall losing the match 3½-2½ and now just lead the TBF by 5 Trophy wins to 4 overall with 3 draws. Nathan again confirmed 2025’s event is booked for Breadsall (Priory course) on Friday 8th August at 15:10pm Nathan is to communicate with TBF organiser Ade Stopforth nearer the event to confirm numbers.
RONNIE PARKER MEMORIAL TROPHY .
Comment was passed about 2024’s Singles Matchplay event where Pastures sadly won the Trophy yet again but a well done was again given to the 12 x Lads who represented the Society putting up a another decent effort in the 8 - 4 defeat with 4 of the matches going to the final hole and could have gone either way. A toast was again raised for Ronnie in honour of our great friend and former Captain. Nathan confirmed 2025 will see the 10th Anniversary of the event and arranged for Saturday 27th September at Pastures with the same Singles Match-play format. Nathan is to communicate with Ady Hibbert and Steve Byng nearer the time to confirm the numbers.
AOB
Comment was passed about the continued success of the ‘Captains Putting Competition’.
Chris Boffey was thanked for his effort and prizes provided throughout the year as Captain and all Society Members for digging deep into their pockets to contribute during the events over the season with another fantastic total of £501 raised for the Prostate Cancer UK charity.
It was confirmed Captain Colin Asbury has again chosen the Prostate Cancer UK charity for all proceeds raised during the 2025 season. Comment was passed about the cancellation of the Minibus again in 2024 due to lack of numbers for the trip to Leek. Paul Hind confirmed the deposit is still in place and a booking confirmed with Excel Van hire for the Mini-Bus again for 2025’s last day out to Sandwell Park on Friday 12th September. Nathan to send details of ‘Boozer’s Minibus’ and to request a volunteer to drive the Mini-Bus on the day.
Comment was passed reference any potential new Members to the Society in 2025 with any names to be supplied to Nathan who will E-Mail the joining details/Society fixtures.
Discussion took place in reference to all Society days out reverting to just 18-Hole format from 2026 onwards to either bring the cost of each event down or the potential to play courses currently out of budget for 27-Hole days. It was proposed and accepted that Society days for the 2026 season are to be capped at a maximum of 18 holes and Nathan is to take this into account when booking the venues. Discussions took place regarding the Society’s 35th Anniversary a year away in 2026 and the suggestion of a special event with an overnight stay to be arranged to celebrate this occasion. It was agreed that an extra event like in 2016 for the 25th Anniversary at The Belfry playing the Brabazon course would be the preferred option.
Nathan is to liaise with The Belfry to source pricing and availability. Nathan re-confirmed he will be sourcing new Dark Blue Society Shirts in 2026 to celebrate the PTF Society’s 35th
Anniversary and in the meantime will continue to source existing White Society Golf Shirts for any new members who have yet to receive one.
Meeting closed at 21:00p
Rolls-Royce PTF Golf Society 2024 Season Review
Our busy Golfing calendar was due to start under Chris Boffey’s captaincy at Morley Hayes over the Christmas break but for the 3rd consecutive season adverse weather forced the postponement of the ‘Winter Warmer’ event. The weather hadn’t improved much by late January with only 21 Members and 4 Guests turning out for the re-arranged event where Paul Gretton took the honours with a decent 33 points in the very windy and muddy conditions to lift the ‘Winter Warmer’ Memorial Trophy.
Winter Warmer Memorial Trophy Sunday 21st January - Morley Hayes
Winner: Paul Gretton 33pts Runner-Up: Rob Preston 32pts 3rd place: Rob Kettlewell 32pts.
The relentless wet weather continued well into April but did manage to stay dry during our eagerly awaited first day out of the season over the Easter break at Rufford Park, Nottinghamshire which saw a brilliant turnout of 38 members for the 27 hole event where the ‘Alvaston Maori’ aka Ian Hickton finished ahead of the pack with a brilliant 37 points to win the Spring Salver, lifting the trophy for a 3rd time overall after previous wins in 2009 and 2017.
Spring Salver Tuesday 2nd April – Rufford Park
Winner : Ian Hickton 37pts Runner-Up: Kev Westran 36pts 3rd place: Martin Chadwick 36pts H/Cap Division Winners: Div 1 0-12: Karl Wiggins 33pts Div 2 13-19: Ian Hickton 37pts Div 3 20-36: Rob Preston 33pts
A journey along the A50 into Staffordshire followed in early May with 38 Members making the trip to Trentham Park where the sun finally shone and on a glorious day Paul Gretton continued in decent form scoring 34 points to win the Presidents Cup. At the opposite end of the leader board Ian Bell (11pts) and Paul Wigley (8pts) both sadly added their names to the ‘Scroll of Shame’ and ‘12 and under Trophy’.
Presidents Cup Friday 10th May – Trentham Park
Winner: Paul Gretton 34pts Runner-Up: Colin Asbury 33pts 3rd place: Clive Bell 32pts
H/Cap Division Winners: Div 1 0-12: Dave Hancock 31pts Div 2 13-19: Paul Grettton 34pts Div 3 20-36: Clive Bell 32pts ‘12 & Under Trophy’: Ian Bell 11pts Paul Wigley 8pts
Another trip along the A52 into Nottinghamshire followed in mid-July with a disappointing turnout of just 18 members playing in the 27-hole day at Radcliffe-on-Trent where Dave Hancock continued his ultra consistent form since his knee surgery in 2023 and stormed to victory to win the Summer Vase with 35 points.
Summer Vase Friday 12th July – Radcliffe-on-Trent
Winner: Dave Hancock 35pts Runner-Up: Chris Boffey 31pts 3rd place: Paul Stevens 30pts
H/Cap Division Winners: Div 1 0-12: Dave Hancock 35pts Div 2 13-19: Adam Edwards 30pts Div 3 20-36: Paul Stevens 30pts
Now being one of the largest Society events run in the Midlands our Invitational Trophy continues in strength each season with 101 golfers including over 50 guests lining up at Burton for the original event in early June. However, re-occurring Thunderstorms during the afternoon sadly left no option but to ‘sound the Klaxon’ and abandon the event at around 16:45pm with the Course waterlogged and unfit for further play with the later groups having played just a few holes. Burton kindly allowed us to quickly re-schedule the whole event for mid-July with 81 Members/guests playing in the re-run and a great afternoon’s golf was enjoyed by all as we were blessed with glorious sunshine this time around. The ‘Nearest Pin’ and Divisional prize money pots were won evenly between members and guests but it was great to see three of our own lads filling the overall podium positions with Alex Allingham winning the PTF Invitational Trophy with a cracking 36 points pipping Ricky Burton after back 9 countback and Fraser Gibbs in 3rd with 35 points. Jim O’Boyle and Garry Sellers with 9 and 6 points respectively both sadly added their names to the ‘Scroll of Shame’ on the day with Garry being the current Holder of the ‘12 and under Trophy’. PTF Invitational Trophy Friday 19th July - Burton
Winner: Alex Allingham 36pts Runner-Up: Ricky Burton 36pts 3rd place: Fraser Gibbs 35pts
H/Cap Division 0-12 Winner: Alex Allingham 36pts Runner-Up: Callum Slater 34pts 3rd place: Michael Kerry(Guest) 33pts
H/Cap Division 13-19 Winner: Fraser Gibbs 35pts Runner-Up: Craig Bond 35pts 3rd place: Andy Elson(Guest) 32pts H/Cap Division 20-36 Winner: Ricky Burton 36pts Runner-Up: Paul Hawkins(Guest) 35pts 3rd place: Rob Preston 32pts ‘12 & Under Trophy’: Jim O’Boyle 9pts Garry Sellers 6pts
Thanks again to all who supported one or both events and here’s hoping for the same fantastic support from everyone (and much kinder weather!) as we return to Burton again for 2025’s event on Friday 13th June.
Our highlight of every season is the ‘Weekend Away’ in early August with 28 members making the trip into Wales for a stay in Llandudno where the lads were blessed with some dry, sunny weather this year and enjoyed another memorable weekend both on and off the course. 2024’s Captain Chris Boffey dominated the golfing action trousering the overall ‘Weekend Individual’ prize money with a combined total of 96 points from the 3 x rounds played starting off by scoring 33 points to win the opening ‘Friday Fiver’ prize money amongst the dunes at a blustery but impressive Prestatyn.
Chris continued where he left off into the Saturday in even windier conditions at North Wales holing his 6-iron approach on the tricky 1st hole for Eagle on the way to scoring a brilliant 36 points to win the ‘Tourist Trophy’ at the stunning ‘links’ which is amongst the best courses we’ve ever played particularly the stand-out holes running alongside Penforma Beach and it’s amazing views over the Conwy estuary. The closing event at the ‘parkland’ of Abergele set in the grounds of Gwrych Castle which famously hosted ‘I’m A Celebrity’ in 2020/2021 was won by Society stalwart Clive Bell who pocketed the ‘Sunday Stab’ loot with a solid 34 points.
‘Friday Fiver’ Friday 2nd August – Prestatyn Winner: Chris Boffey 33pts Runner-Up: Jason Davis 32pts 3rd place: Rob Langley 32pts
Tourist Trophy Saturday 3rd August – North Wales Winner: Chris Boffey 36pts Runner-Up: Kev Ling 35pts 3rd place: Callum Slater 33pts
H/Cap Division Winners: Div 1 0-12: Chris Boffey 36pts Div 2 13-19: Kev Ling 35pts Div 3 20-36: Lee Green 33pts
‘Sunday Stab’ Sunday 4th August – Abergele Winner: Clive Bell 34pts Runner-Up: Rob Langley 33pts 3rd place: Ben Horspool 32pts
Thanks again to all the lads who supported this year’s weekend and we’ll look forward to doing it all again in 2025 staying at the Belvedere Hotel in Bridlington where we’ll be playing Hainsworth Park, Flamborough Head and Bridlington.
Our sixth and final ‘Order of Merit’ event of the season in early September saw our first visit to Leek where the 22 lads who turned out on the day were rewarded with another brilliant course and greens. The undulating Staffordshire track provided a tough test in the very windy conditions and with point scoring proving difficult for most it was Chris Boffey who again took the honours with 31 points to lift the Autumn Cup and his second ‘Order of Merit’ event win of 2024.
Autumn Cup Friday 6th September - Leek
Winner: Chris Boffey 31pts Runner-Up: Paul Hind 30pts 3rd place: Craig Bond 29pts
H/Cap Division Winners: Div 1 0-12: Chris Boffey 31pts Div 2 13-19: Craig Bond 29pts Div 3 20-36: Paul Hind 30pts.
Stableford points from the six individual events through the season are added to our ‘Order of Merit’ with the best four scores counting towards the title which again went down to the final day out at Leek. After a very consistent season Dave Hancock topped the ‘Order of Merit’ with a best four round total of 130 points to win the Aggregate Trophy ahead of Chris Boffey and Craig Bond who finished joint Runner-Up on 127 points with Vice-Captain Colin Asbury just behind on 126 points in 4th place.
Aggregate Trophy Winner: Dave Hancock 130pts Runner-Up: Craig Bond 127pts Runner-Up: Chris Boffey 127pts 4th: Colin Asbury 126pts
The Societies ‘Matchplay knockout’ event started way back in March with 72 members entering and Preliminary Round matches required to whittle the membership down to 64 for the 1st Round proper. Despite a very wet spring/summer another great effort was made by Members to get the round matches played before each deadline and the competition was keenly contested as ever with Craig Bond and Brian Edwards the eventual finalists in early September with Craig triumphing 1up in a closely fought final at Horley Lodge to proudly lift the Clive Dawson Trophy.
Clive Dawson Trophy Winner: Craig Bond Runner-Up: Brian Edwards
The Most Improved Player Trophy was won by Chris Boffey for his improved/consistent performances in 2024 including ‘Friday Fiver’, ‘Tourist Trophy’ & ‘Autumn Cup’ wins and finishing joint Runner-Up in the ‘Order of Merit’.
Most Improved Player Trophy Winner: Chris Boffey
The Best Newcomer Trophy went to Ricky Burton for finishing highest in the ‘Order of Merit’ with 113 points from the new members to the Society in 2024.
Best Newcomer Trophy Winner: Ricky Burton
The Captains Trophy was also won by Chris Boffey who from the Past & Present Captain’s finished highest in 2024’s ‘Order of Merit’ with 127 points.
Captains Trophy Winner: Chris Boffey
The annual John Layne Trophy match against ‘C4/C9’ was played in late June at Breadsall on the Priory course where we suffered our first ever ‘whitewash’ and heaviest defeat yet with the Auld enemy (helped again by 3 society members…just sayin!) winning the ‘Pairs’ MatchPlay event 6-0 and retaining the Trophy for a 4th consecutive season. We do however still have our noses in front with 14-12 Trophy wins overall and we’ll look forward to renewing rivalries with Cormac and co. next year.
John Layne Trophy v C4/C9 Friday 28th June - Breadsall (Priory) C4/C9: 6 PTF: 0
The annual Graham ‘Freddie’ Sheard Trophy match in mid-August was also played at Breadsall on the Priory course against a great bunch of lads from the Turbine Blade Facility who again provided stiff but friendly competition in the ‘Pairs’ Match-Play event where we suffered a narrower defeat 3½-2½ overall and the TBF regained the trophy. We still just lead the TBF by 5 wins to 4 overall with 3 draws and we’ll endeavour to avenge this defeat next August and get the Trophy safely back in our cabinet at EOS.
Graham Sheard Trophy v TBF Friday 16th August - Breadsall (Moorland) TBF: 3½ PTF: 2½
The Phil Gerrish Trophy was played on the Weekend Away between a team of PTF and EOS members alongside the individual ‘Friday Fiver’ event at Prestatyn. With 14 Golfers per side but only the best 11 Scorecards counting the PTF lads earned a comprehensive victory on the day with a total of 301 points to the EOS lads 288 points and retaining the Trophy for the 3rd consecutive season with EOS now just leading by 6 trophy wins to 5 overall.
Phil Gerrish Trophy Friday 2nd August – Prestatyn PTF: 301pts EOS: 288pts
The annual ‘Shirkers’ v ‘Workers’ Trophy event was played between Past (Shirkers) and Present (Workers) alongside the individual ‘Sunday Stab’ at Abergele on the Weekend Away. The ‘Workers’ were originally declared as winners of the team Stableford event on the day with the best 11 Scorecards counting. However, after a stewards enquiry and a point re-count when compiling the results it turned out the ‘Shirkers’ actually won with 318 pts to the ‘Workers’ 308pts to regain the Trophy and now lead by 3 wins to 1 in the event overall.
‘Shirkers’ v ‘Workers’ Trophy Sunday 6th August – Abergele ‘Shirkers’: 318pts ‘Workers’: 308pts
Our final event of the season took place as ever at the end of September with our annual match against Pastures for the Ronnie Parker Memorial Trophy to remember our former Captain who we sadly lost in 2014. With 12 Golfers a-side again turning out for the 9 Hole Singles Matchplay team event we put up another decent effort in the 8 - 4 defeat with 4 of the matches going to the final hole and could have gone either way. We’ll look forward to renewing rivalries with them again next season aiming to finally win the Trophy in the 10th Anniversary of the event.
Ronnie Parker Memorial Trophy Saturday 14th September - Pastures Pastures: 8 PTF: 4
So that was the Society’s 33rd season and I’d like to say a special thankyou on behalf of myself and all Society members to the following Lads for all their assistance throughout 2024:
• Bob Harwood – for the endless updating of the Society Website
• Colin Asbury – for all his Vice-Captains duties
• Chris Boffey – a great year as Captain both on and off the course and a very well done again on everything ‘Boss’… just hope Lorraine’s got plenty of ‘Brasso’ for all your Silverware! Finally the biggest thankyou as ever goes out to ALL of you 82 x Members for your continued support of all the Society events throughout our golfing year, especially the Invitational Trophy and Weekend Away, while always digging deep into your pockets to contribute to the ‘Captains Putting Challenge’ which continues to add a bit of fun to each society event on the Putting Green where another fantastic total of £501 was raised for Captain Boffey’s chosen Charity - Prostate Cancer. It’s a pleasure organising everything on your behalf as Secretary where I’ll be continuing to assist 2025’s Captain Colin Asbury with all the off-course activities and our fixture list is already confirmed where we’ll be playing Atherstone in April, Lingdale in May, Burton for the Invitational Trophy in June, Scraptoft in July, Bridlington for the Weekend Away in August and Sandwell Park for our final day out in September. Hopefully you’ll be re-joining us again in 2025 and will look forward to seeing you next season but if you won’t be renewing your Membership then please let me know so I can remove you from the E-Mail circulation. Thanks again for your continued support, Nath.
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PTF GOLF SOCIETY - 2023 AGM
Friday 24th November 2023
Ye Olde Dolphin Inne, Derby
Attending
Nathan Richards, Chris Boffey, Colin Asbury, Rob Preston, Andy Haines, Paul Hind, Ian Johnson, Malc Cope, Mick Lister, Kev Ling, Jason Davis, Manjit Resoda, Callum Slater
Apologies
Graham Bielby, Ranbir Sahota, Kev Guilford, Matt Collinson, Carl Warren, Kris Herries, Aidan Gale, Dave Hancock,
Steve Armitage, Brian Edwards
Meeting opened by Nathan Richards at 19:15pm
Nathan supplied a copy of a 2023 Season Review which will be published on the Website.
OFFICIALS
Rob Preston was thanked again for all his efforts during his reign as Captain in 2023 before the captaincy for the 2024 season was officially handed over to Chris Boffey.
Chris confirmed his Vice Captain for 2024 to be Colin Asbury.
It was confirmed that Nathan Richards will continue as Secretary and Treasurer in 2024 to oversee all the Society’s off course activities with Andy Haines to continue as Vice-Treasurer. It was confirmed that Nathan Richards will continue as Handicap Secretary as part of his Secretary role.
TREASURERS REPORT
Nathan supplied copies of 2023’s financial transactions, which ended with a balance of £1055. Nathan highlighted 2023 had been another solid year financially for the Society with a small profit of £60 following another increase in membership and ‘Blackout’s which had again been a great success in adding to the Society funds and would be continued to be run at Society events throughout the 2024 season.
Nathan confirmed deposits have since been paid for all 2024’s events and highlighted again the increased price golf clubs were charging for booking 27 hole days and to be a discussion point later in AOB.
It was agreed that the cost of Annual Subscriptions for 2024 are to continue at £15.
Subs MUST be paid by March 1st to join for the 2024 season and entry into the Clive Dawson Trophy.
Free Subs for the 2024 go to Paul Hind after winning the Members Prize Draw.
Nathan confirmed again that the preferred method for all payments is via Bank Transfer and the Society Account details are included on all E-Mails.
HANDICAPS
Discussions took place regarding Handicaps for the Society’s Individual Stableford events. A proposal was made to continue to play all Individual Stableford events off 3⁄4 Handicaps. A counter proposal was made to play Individual Stableford events off FULL Handicaps. A third proposal was made to play Individual Stableford events off 90% Handicaps. A vote was taken and it was agreed that all Individual Stableford events will continue to be played of 3⁄4 Handicaps in 2024.
It was agreed that all Team events will continue to be played of 3⁄4 Handicaps as in previous seasons. It was proposed and accepted that the maximum Handicap for a Society member will raised from 28 to 36. It was proposed and accepted that previous the Handicap Division 3 - 20-28 to be updated to 20-36.
It was agreed that new members to the Society having their initial Handicap capped at a maximum of 25 will continue and eligible for a Handicap increase following an Individual event within their first season. It was agreed to continue to use Society Handicaps for all events by decreasing/increasing Handicaps under the existing ‘Handicap Adjustment Rules’ with the Handicap page of the website updated after each event.
Discussion took place regarding the Society’s ‘Handicap Adjustment Rules’ which have been in place for many years and previously reviewed at 2022’s AGM. Alternative methods of calculating Handicap increases/reductions were discussed but it unanimously agreed that what might be used for a golf club is too complex for a society to operate nor deemed as required. A proposal was made to continue to adjust Handicaps with a 1 shot increase after a score of 24 points or less in Individual Stableford events. A counter proposal was made to adjust Handicaps with a 1 shot increase for scores below an ‘average point cut-off’ calculated for the applicable Individual Stableford event. A vote was taken and it was agreed to continue to adjust Handicaps with a 1 shot increase after scoring 24 points
or less in Individual Stableford events in 2024. It was proposed and accepted to also adjust Handicaps with a 2 shot increase after a score of 12 points or less in Individual Stableford events. It was agreed that only the 6 x ‘Order of Merit’ events will continue to result in Handicap increases/reductions in 2024.
It was proposed and accepted that Handicap reductions will no longer apply for finishing in the ‘Divisional prize money’ in any of the 6 x ‘Order of Merit’ events.
It was agreed that the Handicap Secretary will continue to reset a members Society Handicap to their current Club Handicap after 12 x ‘Order of Merit’ events without receiving a society handicap reduction following a prize money finish.
Nathan to update Handicap Adjustment Rules will be re-posted on the Website.
ORDER OF MERIT/AGGREGATE TROPHY
Congratulations were again given to Jason Davis on topping the ‘Order of Merit’ and his Aggregate Trophy win in2023. It was agreed that the best 4 x Stableford points scores from 6 x ‘Order of Merit’ events (Spring Salver, Presidents Cup, Invitational Trophy, Summer Vase, Tourist Trophy and Autumn Cup) will continue to count towards the Aggregate Trophy title in 2024. It was agreed that a ‘keepsake Trophy’ and £60 prize money will again be presented to the winner as in previous seasons along with the main Aggregate Trophy. A proposal was made to introduce an additional ‘Order of Merit’ for each Handicap Division. After lengthy discussion and deemed as a great idea but due to Handicap adjustments throughout the season it
couldn’t be agreed on how to operate the competition and unable to introduce for the 2024 season but will be reviewed again at 2024’s AGM.
CLIVE DAWSON TROPHY
It was highlighted that with 73 members entering 2023’s competition that a Prelim Round was required and despite the dreadful summer another great effort was made by Members to get the round matches played before each deadline with the Final played earlier than ever at end of August and congratulations were again given to 2023’swinner Steve Armitage. It was confirmed that Nathan Richards, Chris Boffey, Colin Asbury and Graham Bielby are the Committee for 2024’s event.
It was agreed that Prize Money of 1st £50 and 2nd £30 will remain the same as in previous seasons. Discussions took place regarding Society Handicaps for the Clive Dawson Trophy matches. A proposal was made for current Society Handicaps to apply in Clive Dawson matches. A counter proposal was made for fixed Society Handicaps at the start of the season to apply in Clive Dawson matches.
A vote was taken and it was agreed that all Clive Dawson matches in 2024 will now be played off fixed Society Handicap at the start of the competition on 1st March.
A new column will be added to the Website to reflect applicable Clive Dawson Handicaps. It was proposed and accepted that Members with a Handicap above 28 will again have this capped at 28 in all matches. It was confirmed that FULL Handicap difference for each match would again apply again as per R&A rules for Individual Matchplay. Nathan confirmed competition rules will be updated and included as always in the Clive Dawson Trophy details sent out with each round draw throughout the season.
Members are to ensure Clive Dawson round matches in 2024’s are completed by the date deadlines as below:
FRIDAY 1st MARCH – PRELIM ROUND DRAWN
MONDAY 1st APRIL – PRELIM ROUND COMPLETE
TUESDAY 2nd APRIL – 1ST ROUND DRAWN
THURSDAY 9th MAY – 1ST ROUND COMPLETE
FRIDAY 10th MAY – 2ND ROUND DRAWN
THURSDAY 20th JUNE – 2ND ROUND COMPLETE
FRIDAY 21st JUNE – 3RD ROUND DRAWN
THURSDAY 18th JULY – 3RD ROUND COMPLETE
FRIDAY 19th JULY – 4TH ROUND DRAWN (Quarter-Finals)
THURSDAY 8th AUGUST – 4TH ROUND COMPLETE
FRIDAY 9th AUGUST – SEMI-FINAL DRAWN
THURSDAY 23rd AUGUST – SEMI FINAL’s COMPLETE
THURSDAY 5th SEPTEMBER – FINAL TO BE PLAYED BEFORE THIS DATE AT A NEUTRAL VENUE
Comment was passed that every effort should be made by both finalists to play the Final BEFORE our last day out on Friday 6th September to enable the Trophy to be presented on the day.
PRIZES
Nathan confirmed that all 2024’s keepsake trophies would again be ordered from Bob at Rayal Trophies. It was re-highlighted that ALL Trophies should continue to be returned to Nathan by the existing trophy holder no later than a month before this season’s applicable event. It was agreed that Individual Stableford event prize money including the ‘Winter Warmer’ would continue as in previous seasons with 1st £50, 2nd £30 and 3rd £20
It was proposed and accepted to introduce Handicap ‘Divisional’ prize money for all ‘Order of Merit’ events (as already in place for the Invitational Trophy) with £15 prize money to each winner of the 3 x Handicap Divisions ineach applicable event.
It was agreed that the winning prize money of £10 per man in Team events would continue as in previous seasons. It was agreed that 2 x £10 Nearest the Pin prize would continue in both the morning Team event and afternoon Individual Stableford events in 2024 along with ‘Nearest the Pin in 2’ prize money of £10 where suitable.
It was agreed ‘Blind Sweepstake’ prize money of £20 to the winner who draws the name of the winning Golfer of each Individual Stableford event to continue in 2024.
It was agreed ‘Missed Green’ fines on the 2 x ‘Nearest the Pin’ holes only would remain at £1 per Green missed in the Individual Stableford events in 2024.
It was agreed the ‘2’s’ Competition in the Individual Stableford events only will continue as in previous seasons. It was confirmed the ‘Hole in One’ pot now currently standing at £165 will again be topped up by ‘Missed Green’ fines and be presented to the next Golfer who achieves this feat in any Society event which for clarity includes a ‘Hole in One’ in any Clive Dawson match or Team Match e.g. John Layne Trophy.
It was proposed and accepted to continue topping up the ‘Hole in One pot in 2024 until it reaches £200 and that point start a reserve pot as previously done in 2018.
2024 DATES & VENUES
Nathan confirmed 2024’s venues have been booked and deposits paid as follows:
Tue 2nd APRIL RUFFORD PARK (27 Holes)
Fri 10th MAY TRENTHAM PARK (27 Holes)
Fri 12th JULY RADCLIFFE-on-TRENT (27 Holes)
Fri 6th SEPT LEEK (18 Holes)
WEEKEND AWAY
Nathan confirmed the weekend away is booked and deposit paid with Yourgolftravel for a maximum of 36 inLlandudno with a 2 night/3 rounds of Golf format on Friday, Saturday, Sunday 2nd, 3rd & 4th August staying at the Marine Hotel, Llandudno and playing at Prestatyn, North Wales and Abergele. Nathan confirmed 2024’s Weekend Away has seen an increase in cost to £325 but this is reflected in the high quality of courses and reverting back to include Evening Meal each night back at the Hotel. Details have already been sent out to the Membership with £40 deposits paid and currently only one place still available and a waiting list in place once full.
Final Weekend numbers MUST be confirmed and full balance paid to Yourgolftravel by Friday 7th June which is a lot earlier than previous seasons.
The ‘Friday Fiver’ Individual Stableford and Phil Gerrish Trophy Team event between PTF and EOS Society members will be played on the Friday 2nd August at Prestatyn
The ‘Tourist Trophy’ will be played on the Saturday 3rd August at North Wales
The ‘Sunday Stab’ Individual Stableford and ‘Shirkers’ v ‘Workers’ Trophy Team event will be played on Sunday 4th August at Abergele
PTF INVITATIONAL TROPHY
Nathan commented on the fantastic turnout of 97 Golfers which included 50 guests who supported 2023’s event at Burton and great to see it continuing in strength with it now being one of the largest events run by a Golf Society.
Nathan confirmed 2024’s event is booked again at Burton on Friday 14th June with details to be E-mailed out early in 2024 where he hoped to achieve similar numbers with 27 x Tee Times booked from 11:40am-16:00pm giving a maximum of 108 x places available on the afternoon and Society members encouraged to bring guests.
‘WINTER WARMER’ MEMORIAL TROPHY Nathan confirmed the full details of 2023’s ‘Winter Warmer’ Memorial Trophy event at Morley Hayes on Friday 29th
December have been sent out to the membership. Currently only 18 x Golfers booked in for the event with a maximum 32 places available and payments are required by Friday 22nd December.
It was agreed that a toast is to be raised again at the Prize Presentation to remember all former members who have passed away and are sadly no longer with us.
PHIL GERRISH TROPHY
Congratulations were given to the winning PTF team members who won the Trophy on the Friday of the Weekend Away at Carden Park with EOS now leading 6-4 in overall Trophy wins It was agreed that the event would be played again on the Friday of the Weekend Away at Prestatyn between a team of PTF and EOS Members.
‘SHIRKERS’ v ‘WORKERS’ TROPHY. Congratulations were given to the winning ‘Workers’ team who won the Trophy on the Sunday of the Weekend Away at Vicars Cross and now lead by 2 wins to 1 overall. It was agreed that the event would be played again on the Sunday of the Weekend Away at Abergele between a team of Past (Shirkers) and Present (Workers) RR employees. Nathan is to source a Trophy for the event as one still not yet in place.
CAPTAINS TROPHY
Congratulations were given to Callum Slater for winning the Trophy in 2023 for the 3rd consecutive season. It was agreed that the Captains Trophy would continue to be presented at the end of the season to the current/past Captain who finishes in the highest position in the ‘Order of Merit’
JOHN LAYNE TROPHY
Comment was passed about 2023’s match against C4/C9 where we suffered a heavy defeat 41⁄2-11⁄2 and the Auld Enemy retaining the Trophy again although we still have our noses in front with 14 Trophy wins to 11 overall.
Nathan confirmed Breadsall had increased price to £45 for the Golf/Food package in 2024 instead of £35 previously paid so to bring the cost down to £30 per golfer food is no longer included with nothing to pay for Breadsall Members and 2024’s event booked at Breadsall (Priory course) on Friday 28th June at 15:10pm.
Nathan is to communicate with Fraser Gibbs and C4 organiser Tim Evans nearer the event to confirm numbers.
GRAHAM SHEARD TROPHY
Congratulations were given to the lads who played in 2023’s event scoring a resounding victory over the TBF on the Priory Course at Breadsall winning the match 51⁄2-1⁄2 to regain the Trophy and now lead the TBF by 5 Trophy wins to 3 overall with 3 draws. Nathan again confirmed Breadsall had increased price to £45 for the Golf/Food package in 2024 instead of £35 previously paid so to bring the cost down to £30 per golfer food is no longer included with nothing to pay for Breadsall Members and 2024’s event is booked for Breadsall (Moorland course) on Friday 16th August at 15:10pm Nathan is to communicate with TBF organiser Ade Stopforth nearer the event to confirm numbers.
RONNIE PARKER MEMORIAL TROPHY
A toast was again raised for Ronnie in honour of our great friend and former Captain.
Comment was passed about 2023’s Singles Matchplay event ending in an honourable draw with 6.5 pointd each with Pastures sadly retaining the Trophy (again!!) but congratulations given to the 13 x Lads who represented the Society putting up a brilliant effort to earn our best result yet and a moral victory for us as we’re getting ever closer to winning forthe first time, Nathan confirmed 2024 will see the 10th Anniversary of the event and date provisionally arranged for Saturday 21st
September at Pastures with the same Singles Match-play format.
Nathan is to communicate with Ady Hibbert and Steve Byng nearer the time to confirm the date/numbers.
AOB
Comment was passed about the continued success of the ‘Captains Putting Competition’ introduced in 2022 by Kev Ling. Rob Preston was thanked for his effort and prizes provided throughout the year as Captain and all Society Members for digging deep into their pockets to contribute during the events over the season with a fantastic total of £512 raised for the Prostate Cancer charity.
It was confirmed Captain Chris Boffey has chosen the Prostate Cancer charity for all proceeds raised during the 2024 season.
Comment was passed about the cancellation of the Minibus due to lack of numbers for the trip to Uttoxeter and thanked Michael Coleman for offering his services again to drive. It was confirmed the Society still had the £25 deposit held by Excel Van Hire and Paul Hind has re-booked the Minibus for 2024’s final day out to Leek on Friday 6th September with a stop off in Ashbourne on the return to Derby.
Nathan is to send details nearer the event and request a volunteer to drive the Mini-Bus on the day. Comment was passed reference any potential new Members to the Society in 2024 with names are to be supplied to Nathan who will E-Mail the joining details/Society fixtures. Discussion again took place for the potential for ALL Society days out to revert to 18 Hole format from 2025 to bring cost down and potential to play courses currently out of budget for 27 Holes days. However this suggestion was not seen as a required change currently and will be reviewed further at 2024’s AGM.
Discussions took place regarding the requirement for additional PTF Society Golf shirts previously bought in 2018.
It was proposed and accepted to source additional Dark Blue Society Shirts in 2026 to celebrate the PTF Society’s 35th Anniversary and in the meantime Nathan is to continue to source existing White Society Golf Shirts for new members who have yet to receive one. It was proposed and accepted that Nathan Richards would become an Honorary Member as a reward for his commitment to the Society since 2008 and all his Secretary duties over the past 12 years.
Meeting closed at 21:05pm
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Rolls-Royce PTF Golf Society 2023 Season Review
Our busy Golfing calendar under Rob ‘Presso’ Preston’s captaincy was due to start at Morley Hayes as ever during the Christmas break however for the 2nd season running adverse weather forced the postponement of the ‘Winter Warmer’ event. The weather relented slightly by late January for the re-arranged event where ‘Long’ Tom Donnachie scored a brilliant 39 points in the conditions for a wide margin win and lifted the Winter Warmer Memorial Trophy for a third time after previous wins in 2017 and 2018. Only 20 Members and 2 Guests turned out on the day and hopefully this year’s event will see kinder weather for us and a much better turnout back at Morley Hayes on Friday 29th December.
Winter Warmer Memorial Trophy Saturday 28th January - Morley Hayes Winner: Tom Donnachie 39pts Runner-Up: Malc Cope 32pts 3rd place: Mick Lister 31pts
Our eagerly awaited first day out over the Easter break in early April saw a fantastic turn-out of 38 members make the trip to Glen Gorse in Leicester for a 27 hole event. The windy conditions took a turn for the worse from lunchtime onwards with the addition of relentless rain sadly ruining the afternoon’s golf. Point scoring proved difficult in the cold, wet conditions where a handful of lads opted for an early return to the warmth of the 19th Hole however a solid performance from Callum Slater with 34 points saw him lift the Spring Salver. Unfortunately 4 additional members joined the ‘Honours List’ on the day as Chris Hall, Ian Bell, Colin Chambers and Garry Sellers all added their names to the ‘Scroll of Shame’ with Garry lifting the ‘12 and under Trophy’ with 3 points.
Spring Salver Friday 11th April – Melton Mowbray Winner: Callum Slater 34pts Runner-Up: Andy Hallas 31pts 3rd place: Kev Ling 28pts ‘Texas Scramble’ Winners: Adam Edwards & Rob Preston ‘12 & Under Trophy’: Chris Hall 11pts Ian Bell 8pts Colin Chambers 8pts Garry Sellers 3pts,
Another trip into Leicestershire followed in mid-May with 35 Golfers making the Societies first venture to Melton Mowbray however we didn’t see the course at its finest with heavy rain leading up to event leaving it waterlogged in places and questionable whether it should really have even been open to us at all. However, the 27 hole day went ahead as scheduled and with no Buggies allowed we trudged through the very boggy underfoot conditions where Kris Herries scored 34 points on his society debut to win the Presidents Cup while Jim O’Boyle added his name to the ‘Scroll of Shame’ and ‘12 and under Trophy’ with 7 points.
Presidents Cup Friday 12th May – Melton Mowbray Winner: Kris Herries 34pts Runner-Up: Malc Cope 31pts 3rd place: Rob Kettlewell 29pts ‘12 & Under Trophy’: Jim O’Boyle 7pts ‘1,2,3’ Team Stableford’ Winners: Kev Westran, Paul Gretton & Carl Warren.
Now being one of the largest Events run by a Golf Society in the Midlands our Invitational Trophy continues in strength each season with 97 Golfers including 50 guests supporting 2023’s 18 Hole event at Burton in early June. The welcoming clubhouse hospitality and afternoon’s Golf was enjoyed by all who played despite the blustery conditions out on the course with most of the prize money on offer scooped by our guests. However, it was great to see ‘one of our own’ again winning overall as Jason Davis in his first event as an official society member lifted the PTF Invitational Trophy with an impressive 37 points. Jim O’Boyle and Kyle Hooley with 11 and 9 points respectively both added their names to the ‘Scroll of Shame’ and Jim is the current Holder of the ‘12 and under Trophy’. Here’s hoping for the same fantastic support from everyone as we return to Burton for 2024’s event on Friday 14th June.
PTF Invitational Trophy Friday 9th June - Burton Overall Winner: Jason Davis 37pts Runner-Up: Stephen Burrows (Guest) 33pts 3rd place: Liam Westwood(Guest) 32pts H/Cap Division 1-12 Winner: Paul Clement(Guest) 29pts Runner-Up: Graham Bielby 27pts 3rd place: Chris Boffey 27pts H/Cap Division 13-19 Winner: Jason Davis 37pts Runner-Up: Stephen Burrows (Guest) 33pts 3rd place: Malc Cope 31pts H/Cap Division 20-36 Winner: Liam Westwood(Guest) 32pts Runner-Up: Pete Smith (Guest) 31pts 3rd place: Rod Greenfield (Guest) 30pts ‘12 & Under Trophy’: Kyle Hooley 11pts Jim O’Boyle 9pts.
A journey down the A38 followed in late July for 27 Holes at Druids Heath near Walsall and our first visit certainly didn’t disappoint with the 29 golfers who turned out agreeing it’s one of the best venues we have played in recent seasons. The course/greens were all in superb condition and saw two brilliant rounds of golf at the top of the podium from Steve ‘Steady’ Selwood with 34 points off his lowly 1 Handicap finishing Runner-up to ‘Long’ Tom Donnachie who continued his improved form to win the Summer Vase after amassing 40 points.
Summer Vase Friday 21st July – Druids Heath Winner: Tom Donnachie 40pts Runner-Up: Steve Selwood 34pts 3 rd place: Jason Davis 34pts ‘Yellow Ball’ Team Stableford Winners: Adam Edwards, Andy Haines & Paul Hind.
The highlight of everyone’s golfing season quickly followed in early August with 28 members making the trip to Chester for the ‘Weekend Away’ where the opening ‘Friday Fiver’ event at Carden Park saw Ben Horspool claim the winners pot scoring a brilliant 37 points on the ‘Cheshire’ Course. Sadly Saturday’s weather forecast was as predicted and we awoke to torrential rain with Pryors Hayes sensibly making the early morning decision to close the course giving us an enforced rest day. ‘Hats off’ however to Lingy and the ‘Dirty Dozen’ who braved the elements at Chester GC for a social round, Pat Selby who landed the ‘Longest Drink’ prize as the rest of the lads ventured around the cities drinking parlours whilst a few others opted to take the ‘Longest Drive’ (Chester to Derby and back). Fortunately the weather improved greatly overnight with the main ‘Order of Merit’ event of the weekend re-arranged to the Sunday at Vicars Cross where Chris Asbury scored a solid 34 points to win the ‘Tourist Trophy’ just ahead of in-form Jason Davis on 33 points and both shared the weekends overall individual prize with a total of 64 points from the 2 x rounds played. Thanks again to all who attended and despite it being a unique weekend for the lads due to Saturday’s course closure it was another memorable one to be involved in both on/off course. We’ll look forward to doing it all again next season in Llandudno staying at the Marine Hotel where we’ll be playing Prestatyn, North Wales and Abergele.
‘Friday Fiver’–Carden Park (Cheshire) Tourist Trophy–Vicars Cross Winner: Ben Horspool 37pts Winner: Chris Asbury 34pts Runner-Up: Rob Langley 33pts Runner-Up: Jason Davis 33pts 3rd : Jason Davis 31pts 3rd: Pat Selby 31pts.
Our sixth and final day out of the season in early September saw a short drive down the A50 to Uttoxeter for 18 holes at the undulating Staffordshire track. A very disappointing turnout of just 19 Golfers supported the event with the ‘Boozers Bus’ cancelled but the lads who did play were rewarded with the best playing conditions of the season and on a scorching hot day Callum Slater finished top of the pack with 33 points to lift the Autumn Cup and his second ‘Order of Merit’ event win of 2023.
Autumn Cup Friday 8th September - Uttoxeter Winner: Callum Slater 33pts Runner-Up: Adam Edwards 31pts 3rd place: Tom Donnachie 30pts.
Stableford points from the six individual events during the season are added to our ‘Order of Merit’ with the best four scores counting towards the title which again went down to the final day at Uttoxeter. After yet another consistent season defending champion Callum Slater finished Runner-Up on 127 points as Jason Davis topped the ‘Order of Merit’ with a best four round total of 131 points to win the Aggregate Trophy in his debut season, with Tom Donnachie back in 3rd place on 121 points.
Aggregate Trophy Winner: Jason Davis 131pts Runner-Up: Callum Slater 127pts 3 rd place: Tom Donnachie 121pts.
The Societies ‘Matchplay Knockout’ event started back in March with 9 x Preliminary Round matches required to whittle the membership down to 64 for the 1st Round proper. The competition was keenly contested as ever with a few shock results along the way and despite the dreadful summer another great effort was made by Members to get the round matches played before each deadline. Tim Beckerson and Steve Armitage contested the Final at Erewash in late August and after a closely fought match ‘Go Compare’ triumphed 2 up to proudly lift the Clive Dawson Trophy and winning the Prize Money.
Clive Dawson Trophy Winner: Steve Armitage Runner-Up: Tim Beckerson.
The Most Improved Player Trophy was won by Tom Donnachie for his improved/consistent performances in 2023 including ‘Winter Warmer Trophy’ & ‘Summer Vase’ wins and finishing 3rd in the ‘Order of Merit’.
Most Improved Player Trophy Winner: Tom Donnachie.
The Best Newcomer Trophy went to Jason Davis for finishing highest in the ‘Order of Merit’ from the new members to the Society in 2023.
Best Newcomer Trophy Winner: Jason Davis
The Captains Trophy was won for a 3rd consecutive season by Callum Slater who from the Past/ Present Captain’s finished highest in 2023’s ‘Order of Merit’ with 127 points.
Captains Trophy Winner: Callum Slater
The annual John Layne Trophy match against ‘C4/C9’ was played in late June at Breadsall on the Moorland course where we sadly suffered a heavy defeat with the Auld enemy (helped by 4 society members) winning the ‘Pairs’ Matchplay event comprehensively 4½-1½ and retaining the Trophy again. We do however still have our noses in front with 14-11 Trophy wins overall and we’ll look forward to renewing rivalries with Tim and company next June where we’ll endeavour to avenge this defeat and get the Trophy safely back in our cabinet after a 6 year wait.
John Layne Trophy v C9/4 Friday 30th June - Breadsall (Moorland) C9/C4: 4½ PTF: 1½
The Graham ‘Freddie’ Sheard Memorial Trophy was played against the Turbine Blade Facility at Breadsall Priory in mid-August with the TBF lads once again providing friendly competition. 6 x Pairs Better Ball Match-Play matches were contested on the Priory course where we scored a resounding victory winning the match 5½-½ to regain the Trophy for the first time since 2021 and now lead the TBF by 5 Trophy wins to 3 overall with 3 draws.
Graham Sheard Trophy v TBF Friday 18th August - Breadsall (Priory) PTF: 5½ TBF: ½
The Phil Gerrish Trophy was played on the Weekend Away between a team of PTF and EOS members alongside the individual ‘Friday Fiver’ event at Carden Park. With 14 Golfers per side but only the best 11 Scorecards counting the PTF members earned a comprehensive victory on the day with a final total of 284 points to the EOS members 254 points retaining the Trophy for the 2nd consecutive season with EOS now leading by 6 trophy wins to 4 overall.
Phil Gerrish Trophy Friday 4th August – Carden Park PTF: 284pts EOS: 254pts
The ‘Shirkers’ v ‘Workers’ Trophy event was played between Past (Shirkers) and Present (Workers) Rolls-Royce employees alongside the individual ‘Tourist Trophy’ at Vicars Cross on the Weekend Away. The team Stableford match with only the best 10 Scorecards counting saw the ‘Workers’ win the event by 287 pts to the ‘Shirkers’ 244pts to regain the Trophy and now lead by 2 wins to 1 in the event overall.
‘Shirkers’ v ‘Workers’ Trophy – Sunday 6th August – Vicars Cross ‘Workers’: 287pts ‘Shirkers’: 244pts
Our final event of the season took place as ever at the end of September with our annual match against Pastures for the Ronnie Parker Memorial Trophy. Well done again to the 13 x Lads who represented the Society putting up a brilliant effort and earning our best result yet with the Singles Matchplay event ending in an honourable draw 6½-6½ but Pastures sadly retaining the Trophy (again!!). However, a moral victory for us as we’re getting ever closer to winning for the first time and we’ll look forward to renewing rivalries again next season in the 10th Anniversary of the event to remember our dear friend and former captain Ronnie who we sadly lost in 2014.
Ronnie Parker Memorial Trophy Saturday 30th September - Pastures: 6½ PTF: 6½ *Pastures retain the Trophy
The ‘Captains Putting Challenge’ continued to add a bit of fun to each society event on the Putting Green and thanks again to everyone for digging deep into your pockets to contribute throughout the season. All proceeds collected were counted before our final event in September with another fantastic total of £512 raised for Captain Presso’s chosen Charity - Prostate Cancer UK. So another brilliant society season has drawn to a close, despite the challenging weather and Handicaps, and I’d like to say a special thank-you on behalf of myself and all Society members to the following Lads for all their help during the year:
• Bob Harwood – for the endless Society Website updates
• Chris Boffey – for all his Vice-Captains duties
• Rob Preston – for a fine job on the Captains throne despite the weather. Well done again on everything mate with a superb effort from you and lads in raising £512 for Prostate Cancer.
Finally the biggest thankyou as ever goes out to ALL of you 82 x Members for your continued support of all the Society events throughout our golfing year especially the annual Weekend Away and Invitational Trophy events which continue to go from strength to strength in numbers. It’s a pleasure organising everything on your behalf and I’ll be continuing to assist 2024’s Captain Chris Boffey with all the off-course activities. The fixture list is already confirmed where we will be playing Rufford Park in April, Trentham Park in May, Burton for the Invitational Trophy in June, Radcliffe-on-Trent in July, Llandudno for the Weekend Away in August and Leek for our final day out in September. Hopefully you’ll be joining us again in 2024 and will look forward to seeing you next season but if you won’t be re-joining then please let me know so I can remove you from the E-Mail circulation.
Thanks again for your continued support, Nath
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