Staffordshire Union of Golf Clubs

Match and Championship Results

Staffs Seniors Championships in 2023 - the County's Centenary Year.

CHURCH TROPHY & MACBRYDE SALVER, PENN GC, THURSDAY 27TH JULY 2023, tHOMAS TROPHY & COX CHALICE, TRENTHAM PARK GC, WEDNESDAY 16TH AUGUST 2023, Loader Trophy & Henwood Trophy, DRUIDS HEATH GC, WEDNESday 13th September 2023

Staffs Seniors Pairs Medal Championship (Loader Trophy & Henwood Trophy) Walsall GC, Monday 12th September 2022

Congratulations to Paul Matthews & Dave Taylor (Brocton Hall GC) on winning the Loader Trophy (Gross Prize) and Robert Hubball & Paul Morris (Oxley Park GC) on winning the inaugural playing of the new Henwood Trophy (Nett Prize).

The ever improving golf course, received some gentle rain during the first half of the competition, and was presented nicely by the greekeeping team. This coupled with good service from the clubhouse staff made for another enjoyable day.

Paul Morris especially thanked Pippa Dathan for all of her help and assistance in running this year's Seniors Championships, supported today by Val Henwood and at a previous event by Sue Porter. Our County President, Michael Entecott, was thanked for again supporting us and presenting the prizes.

Congratulations to today's prize winners who were;

LOADER TROPHY (GROSS PRIZE) 1st Paul Matthews & Dave Taylor (Brocton Hall GC) 70, 2nd Andy Guy & Colin Heard (Stone GC) 71, 3rd Steve Ashcroft & Barry Whitehouse (Bloxwich GC) 73, 4th Shaun Guest & Roger Humphreyson (South Staffs GC) 74 - BB9, 5th Mark Ashton & Mick Tooth (Ingestre Park GC) 74.

HENWOOD TROPHY (NETT PRIZE) 1st Robert Hubball & Paul Morris (Oxley Park GC) 66 - BB9, 2nd Terry Henwood & John Quigley (Walsall GC) 66, 3rd Mark Chapman & Mark Guy (South Staffs GC) 67, 4th Paul Hodgson & Steve Wild (Trentham GC) 68 - BB9, 5th Philip Foster & Geoff Palmer (Oxley Park GC) 68.

Staffs Seniors v Worcestershire Seniors South Staffs GC, Wednesday 24th August 2022

Match report to follow from Captain Andy Guy.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors Pairs Stableford Championship (Thomas Trophy & Cox Chalice) Barlaston GC, Thursday 18th August 2022

Congratulations to Bob Aston (Greenway Hall GC) & Andy Guy (Stone GC) on winning the Thomas Trophy (Gross Prize) and Paul Morris (Oxley Park GC) & Colin Woolley (South Staffs GC) on winning the Cox Chalice (Nett Prize).

There were no less than three Holes in One, by E. Charlton (South Staffs GC) on the 2nd hole, S. Wild (Trentham GC) and M. Hateley (Littel Aston GC) both on the 15th hole!

Click here for the Thomas Trophy (Gross) results

Click here for the Cox Chalice (Nett) results

Staffs Seniors v Shropshire & Herefordshire Seniors The Astbury GC, Tuesday 16th August 2022

Match report to follow from Captain Andy Guy.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Northamptonshire Seniors Northampton GC, Monday 1st August 2022

Match report to follow from Captain Andy Guy.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Leicestershire & Rutland Seniors Melton Mowbray GC, Monday 4th July 2022

Match report to follow from Captain Andy Guy.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Shropshire & Herefordshire Seniors Trentham GC, Monday 27th June 2022

Match report to follow from Captain Andy Guy.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v North Wales Seniors Vale of Llangollen GC, Monday 13th June 2022

Match report to follow from Captain Andy Guy.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Warwickshire Seniors Maxstoke Park GC, Monday 6th June 2022

Match report to follow from Captain Andy Guy.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Lancashire Seniors Enville GC (Lodge Course), Monday 16th May 2022

The match was played on a course that was presented beautifully with the weather almost the same, all but for a downpour of about 20 minutes which caught out a few players. The contest was played in good spirit, great golf and fantastic camaraderie between two strong teams. On this occasion Staffs won the match 11-7.

This will set us up well for the forthcoming match against Warwickshire in the Midland Golf Union League, at Maxstoke Park GC on Monday 6th June.

I would like to thank Mark Ashton and Terry Henwood for their support on the day, and not forgetting my fellow team mates for
their great performance, thank you all too.

Andy Guy

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Derbyshire Seniors Erewash Valley GC, Thursday 5th May 2022

On a beautiful sunny day at Erewash Valley GC, the course was in good condition and the greens had been ironed in readiness for our first League match of the season.

The morning foursomes went really well for Staffs with a lunchtime score of 4-2 in our favour.

The sun continued to shine and so did our first pair out, winning 6/5 and leading from the front. That form continued throughout the team with Staffs only losing 2 matches so we ended up winning the match 12-6. A great start to the 2022 campaign.

A big 'thank you' to our County President and President-Elect for support throughout the day. It was very much appreciated by all the team. Also a big thank you to Chris Wonfor and Chris Bailey for stepping in at the last minute and their contribution to the winning score.

Andy Guy

Our next match is against Lancashire at Enville GC on the 16th May.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Cheshire Seniors Newcastle under Lyme GC, Wednesday 13th April 2022

On a misty, drizzly morning Staffordshire started well in the 9 hole Greensome foursomes winning them by 4 games to 2.

With the drizzle ceasing and sun breaking through I was a bit optimistic thinking that 'Chesta' the Teddy Bear was going home back to Cheshire. I asked our Secretary had he brought it with him, the answer no. He must of known what was to come in the afternoon's Fourballs, whitewash, so to lose the match 14 to 4.

The game was played in the usual good spirits and despite the loss I’m feeling positive for the upcoming season, we have a few fresh faces joined the squad so looking good.

Thanks to Newcastle GC for allowing us to play on their course and their catering staff for providing lovely food and good service all day.

We now look forward to the next match, at Erewash Valley GC against Derbyshire in the Midlands League on the 5th May.

Andy Guy

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors Pairs Medal Championship (Loader Trophy) Bloxwich GC, Monday 27th September 2021

Congratulations to Andy Guy & Colin Heard (Stone GC) on winning the Loader Trophy (Gross Prize) and Stephen Ashcroft & Barry Whirehouse (Bloxwich GC) on winning the Nett Prize, presented by our County President Michael Entecott.

Pictured above are Andy Guy, Michael Entecott and Colin Heard.

Pictured above are Stephen Ashcroft, Michael Entecott and Barry Whitehouse.

Click here for the Loader Trophy (Gross) results

Click here for the Loader Trophy (Nett) results

Staffs Seniors v Northamptonshire Seniors Drayton Park GC, Thursday 9th September 2021

Match report to follow.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Worcestershire Seniors
The Worcestershire GC, Thursday 19th August 2021

Match report to follow.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors Pairs Stableford Championship (Thomas Trophy & Cox Chalice) Trentham Park GC, Monday 16th August 2021

Congratulations to Bob Aston (Greenway Hall GC) & Andy Guy (Stone GC) on winning the Thomas Trophy (Gross Prize) and Alan Kyte & Ken Storey (Uttoxeter GC) on winning the Cox Chalice (Nett Prize).

Pictured above are Andy Guy & Bob Aston with the Thomas Trophy. Alan Kyte & Ken Storey had played earlier in the day and were understandably not on hand when the results were announced.

Click here for the Thomas Trophy (Gross) results

Click here for the Cox Chalice (Nett) results

Staffs Seniors v Shropshire & Herefordshire Seniors II
The Staffordshire GC, Tuesday 10th August 2021

Match report to follow.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Derbyshire Seniors
South Staffs GC, Thursday 29th July 2021

We returned to the impressive South Staffs GC, on this occasion without our Captain and club member Colin Woolley. News came to us during the lunchtime that his scheduled medical procedure that morning had gone to plan and all was well - good news. It was another warm and sunny day, with quite a breeze in the morning of our third MGU Seniors West Midland League match of the season. The course was in impeccable condition, the greens 'true' and pretty quick! We were supported by Terry Henwood in the morning and by our County President, Michael Entecott, for the afternoon, thank you gentlemen. After the morning Foursomes we led 4½ - 1½, and with a spring in our step from Colin's news an 11 - 1 points haul from the afternoon Betterball matches saw us achieve a 15½ - 2½ victory. We were thankfully able to change and shower due to the relaxation of Covid restrictions, and enjoyed a tasty meal together. The club and all of the staff were thanked for the warm welcome and use of their facilities.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Nottinghamshire Seniors
Ramsdale Park GC, Wednesday 21st July 2021

We journied to this 'new' course for all of our team on another scorching hot day. Thankfully this 'pay and play' club, has excellent air conditioning in its bar and dining area!!! The course was in good condition, with the greens lush, smooth and receptive. Our team was again much changed from that selected, for a variety of reasons. After the morning Greensomes on the flat front nine, we were slightly ahead at lunch 3½ - 2½. The afternoon Betterball matches saw the home team cope better with the 'mountainous' (I kid you not !!) back nine and scrape to a win by the narrowest of margins 9½ - 8½. We were able to shower and change, being sensible about Covid but with the previous indoor restrictions removed, and enjoyed the usual meal together. The respective Captains thanked the club and its staff for their welcome and use of their facilities, and we look forward to continued rivalry next season.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Leicestershire & Rutland Seniors
Druids Heath GC, Monday 5th July 2021

This year we hosted Leicestershire and Rutland Seniors at Druids Heath GC. The course, which we played off the Blue (back) tees was in admirable condition, with the undulating greens smooth and a good challenge. Our team was again much changed from that selected, for many a reason. The morning Greensomes were shared 3 - 3, and the afternoon Betterball matches saw a tight-run thing going down to the final game which saw the away team earning victory by 10 - 8. They were accompanied by thier County President and our stalwart Terry Henwood dropped in during the morning with member Steve Leahey on hand too. Both Captains thanked the club and its course & clubhouse staff for their hospitality and use of their Covid safe facilities, as they prepared to host the UK Seniors Golf Association on 6th & 7th.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors Championship (Church Trophy) Sandwell Park GC, Friday 2nd July 2021

Congratulations to Bob Aston (Greenway Hall GC) who produced an impressive gross score of 72 to win by two shots from Paul Griffiths (Enville GC) and Andy Guy (Stone GC) and four shots from David Westwood (Little Aston GC) and Colin Woolley (South Staffs GC). The Championship was hosted by the impressive Sandwell Park GC which was in excellent condition.

Pictured above is Bob Aston receiving his trophy from SUGC President Michael Entecott.

The Nett prize was won by David Peters (Enville GC) with a 69, on a card countback from Roger Humphreyson (South Staffs GC), three ahead of Michael Mayer (Newcastle GC) and four ahead of Paul Morris (Oxley Park GC) and Andrew Teather (Uttoxeter GC). This victory was assisted in no small part by a hole-in-one on the 16th, David's first and all the more memorable.

Pictured above is David Peters (photographer extraordinaire) with SUGC President Michael Entecott.

Staffs Seniors v Shropshire & Herefordshire Seniors
Shifnal GC, Tuesday 29th June 2021

We travelled to Shifnal GC, for our second MGU Seniors West Midland League match of the season. The course was in good condition, the greens smooth and as usual slow. Our team was much changed from that selected, for a variety of reasons. The morning Foursomes were shared 3 - 3, but the afternoon Betterball matches saw the home team earn a victory by 13 - 5. We were able to shower and change, observing the remaining Covid restrictions, and enjoyed the meal together. with the sweet trolley of particular note! The respective County Presidents attended as supporters during the day, along with their County President-elect and for us our stalwart Terry Henwood, a gesture that is miuch appreciated. The Captains thanked the club and all its staff for their hospitality and use of their facilities.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v North Wales Seniors
The Chase GC, Monday 14th June 2021

On the day that Step 4 in the Covid-19 Lockdown Release Process was deferred a further four weeks, until 19th July, we met on another bright and sunny day. The venue for this home fixture was The Chase G&CC, with a hard and running golf course due to the recent dry conditions. Playing against an 8 man team from North Wales Counties we got off to a slim lead 3.5 to 2.5 after the morning's nine hole Greensomes matches. After lunch the afternoon Better Ball results although closely fought were lost 10 to 2, this giving the winning visiting side an overall 12.5 to 5.5 victory. The match was played in a most competitive but friendly atmosphere. The staff and club where thanked for there hospitality and use of there facilities, which we now make a contribution for, and we look forward to playing a full twelve man fixture again in a year's time.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Warwickshire Seniors
South Staffs GC, Monday 7th June 2021

We met at the impressive South Staffs GC, on what was a warm and sunny day, ahead of our first MGU Seniors West Midland League match of the season. The course was in good condition, the greens 'true' and not too quick! We were pleased to welcome two new players to the team, Rob Evans of Aldridge Artisans and Ian Guest of the host club. After the morning Foursomes we trailed 4 - 2, and with their 7 - 5 points haul from the afternoon Betterball matches the victory was achieved 11 - 7. We were able to change, but not shower due to the ongoing Covid restrictions, and enjoyed the usual meal together. The club and all their staff were thanked for the warm welcome and use of their facilities.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Cheshire Seniors
Vale Royal Abbey GC, Monday 12th April 2021

On the first day of Step 2 in the Covid-19 Lockdown Release Process our first Friendly match of this new season saw us meet at this impressive club. As none of the usual indoor facilities were available, except the toilets, it had been agreed in advance to halve the morning Greensomes. Thus we headed for the first tee soon after 12.30pm to play our Fourball Better Ball matches. The course was in good condition, considering the very wet January and early February time, which have been followed by dry but cold March and April. The powerful Cheshire squad, playing their league team trial, came out winners of five of the six games. The club and its staff were thanked for their flexibility in accommodating our revised format day, using a gazebo structure for our snack food before and after the game, and we look forward to gathering again in a year's time.

Click here for the full match results.

Covid-19

It is with a great deal of reluctance that the Board of the Staffordshire Union of Golf Clubs have taken the decision to cancel all County Golf for the remainder of 2020. The safety of everyone involved in golf has been paramount in making this decision. (Monday 6th July 2020).

Staffs Seniors Matchplay Championship 2019

Congratulations to Andy Guy (Westwood GC) and Bob Aston (Trentham Park GC) who contested the final of this year's County Seniors Matchplay on the usual home and away basis. After the first round at Westwood GC Bob was 1 Up, but in his first final Andy came through at Trentham Park GC to win by 3 & 2.

Andy is pictured above with the Squire Trophy.

Staffs Seniors v North Wales Seniors
Padeswood & Buckley GC, Thursday 19th September 2019

We played our final competitive match of 2019 at this unknown gem of a course, the original fixture having been postponed from mid-June due to the course being flooded after torrential rain. In the rarest of days, the morning Greensomes were tied as were the afternoon Better Balls, and thus the match! For the record, stalwarts Ben Rhodes & Terry Henwood asked me to put on record that they were 'robbed', by one of their opponents holing out from 40+ feet on the last hole! This was both Captains last match, who thanked the club and all its staff for a great welcome and good service on a happy day.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Northamptonshire Seniors
Collingtree Park GC, Tuesday 10th September 2019

Four players from the previous day's match in Leicestershire were joined by eight fresh members of our squad, thanks to a free-flowing motorway network! As we discovered in the morning Greensomes this wonderful Johnny Miller designed layout, is in need of time to see the recent investment, particularly to the tees and greens, come to fruition. A wonderful performance in the afternoon Better Ball matches saw us come away with the narrowest of wins. The staff were all thanked for their care and attention during the post-meal short speeches, and a special presentation made - see the Seniors News tab.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Cambridgeshire Seniors
Kirby Muxloe GC, Monday 9th September 2019

Staffs Seniors have again won the Midland Leagues Play-off title.

In our second appearance in this event, which started in 2015, we overcame Cambridgeshire Seniors 11½ v 6½ at Kirby Muxloe GC in Leicestershire, thereby winning the title we last held during Glen Macbryde's Captaincy in 2016.

Picture above is the team that put us in the record books once more, they are from left to right, Colin Heard (Stone GC), Dave Westwood (Little Aston GC), Terry Bray (Sandwell Park GC), Mark Hateley (Little Aston GC), Duncan Stott (Trentham GC), Jim Chambers (Beau Desert GC), Mark Ashton - Captain (Ingestre Park GC), Paul Morris (Oxley Park GC), Colin Woolley - Vice Captain (South Staffs GC), Mike Baker (South Staffs GC), Derek Verey (Beau Desert GC), Andy Guy (Westwood GC).

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Worcestershire Seniors
South Staffs GC, Monday 2nd September 2019

In our fourth and final West Midland League match of the season, Staffs Seniors defeated Worcestershire Seniors 14 v 4 at South Staffs GC and thereby won the title.

We now progress to the Play-Off v Cambridgeshire Seniors, at Kirby Muxloe GC on 9th September for the MIdland title.

Pictured above are the proud team, back row from left to right, Bob Aston (Trentham Park GC), Derek Verey (Beau Desert GC), Colin Woolley - Vice Captain (South Staffs GC), Jim Chambers (Beau Desert GC), Terry Bray (Sandwell Park GC), Duncan Stott (Trentham GC), Mike Baker (South Staffs GC), Andy Guy (Westwood GC), seated from left to right, Roger Humphreyson (South Staffs GC), Mark Ashton - Captain (Ingestre Park GC), Dave Westwood (Little Aston GC), Andy Martin (Leek GC).

Other members of the squad who played in the previous three matches are, Guy Davis (Trentham GC), Colin Heard (Stone GC), Doug Heggie (Great Barr GC), Rob Parkes (Trentham GC), Mark Pickford (Enville GC).

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Denbighshire Seniors Stone GC, Tuesday 20th August 2019

This is a new fixture, added to our season following Lincolnshire's withdrawl from 'friendly' matches. Stone GC was is excellent condition and on a sunny day provided a good challenge for the players of both teams. We were to be undone by the strength of their 'back end' pairings, who swung the result in their favour. At the meal after the golf both Captains wholeheartedly thanked the club and its staff for welcoming us, and looked forward to next year and beyond.

Click here for the full match results.

County Seniors Better Ball
Walsall GC, Monday 19th August 2019

Our Better Ball competitions for the Thomas Trophy (Gross) and Cox Chalice (Nett) took place on a day of sunshine with the occasional torrential downpour at Walsall GC, at their Dr. Alister MacKenzie course and facilities.

Click here for the Gross prize winners.

Click here for the Nett prize winners.

Pictured above, left to right, are County President-Elect Michael Entecott, Paul Morris (Oxley Park GC) with the Gross prize and County Seniors Chairman Andrew Dathan. In his winners' speech, on behalf of himself and his playing partner Colin Woolley (South Staffs GC), Paul thanked the clubhouse, professional and greenkeeping staff along with the members for hosting this prestigious event.

The winners of the Nett prize, having played earlier in the day, had understandably given their apologies for the presentation ceremony.

Staffs Seniors v Nottinghamshire Seniors
Sandwell Park GC, Monday 12th August 2019

We hosted this year's fixture with Notts at one of our better and more challenging courses, in return for our visit to Hollinwell GC in 2018. Former County Seniors player, and member of SPGC, Phil Brewerton kindly acted as our starter for both the morning Greensomes and afternoon Better Ball games. At lunch we were just ahead 3½ v 2½, and with us winning the afternoon matches too we shared the meal afterwards as victors on this day. Both Captains thanked the club and everyone who had played a part in the day, which was rounded off with Terry Henwood regaling us with his infamous 'cricket box' tale - which has taken place at the nearby (less than a full wedge!) cricket ground.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Shropshire & Herefordshire Seniors 2
Wrekin GC, Monday 5th August 2019

As both S&H and ourselves have ceased to be offered a fixture by Lincolnshire (along with Warks & Worcs) we have arranged a second game with our near neighbours, on the understanding that none of the players involved in the Midland Counties Team 6 event later in this week will be involved. The front nine holes that we played in the morning matches, are relatively easier walking on this undulating course. At lunch we were ahead, and some more good play in the afternoon saw us come out comfortable winners, in what all agreed was a most enjoyable day now established in our calendar. The club and its staff were thanked for a warm welcome and course in good condition.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Cambridgeshire Seniors
Brampton Park GC, Monday 29th July 2019

Ten, rather than the usual twelve, players travelled down to Cambs. to play this year's match on what turned out to be a gloriously sunny day. Those who have played at Gog Magog GC will remember the walk back to the clubhouse, after the morning matches finish at the ninth green. Well Brampton Park GC makes that look a 'cake-walk' in comparison!! Although the course had been closed for most of the previous day, due to heavy rains it was completely playable as the green staff had correctly predicted. The morning Greensomes saw us ahead 3 v 2 in the five matches played. The afternoon Better Ball games saw the same outcome. This was a great effort by all in the team, and meant that we'd offset the forfeited 3 points to travel home proud of a 9 v 9 draw, having given our thanks to all at the club.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors Championship
Trentham GC, Thursday 11th July 2019

Click here for the prize winners.

County President-Elect Michael Entecott presents the Church Trophy to Roger Humphreyson (South Staffs GC).

On a predominantly dry but blustery day many of the elite Seniors golfers of the County gathered at Trentham GC. The course was in excellent condition, with the 'ironed' greens firm and true.

This year's Champion, pictured above, goes on to represent us in the England Golf Champion of Champions weekend at Frilford Heath GC on the weekend of 14th & 15th September.

In his winners speech Roger thanked the club for allowing us to hold our flagship event there again, its clubhouse and course staff, the wonderful team of organisers (Andy G, Pippa, Val, Sue, Andrew D. & Terry) for all their hard work and congratulated the other players who'd won prizes this year.

Staffs Seniors v Leicestershire & Rutland Seniors

Scraptoft GC, Monday 8th July 2019

This will be our first and last visit to Scraptoft GC for a match hosted by L&R Seniors, as the club has sold its land to housing developers and is soon to commence the construction of a new course and facilities about five miles away. None of our team, which included six reserves, had played there before, which tipped this close and enjoyable match in our hosts favour - although if one of the afternoon matches had gone in the other way we'd have taken the honours. The 'Gorilla' trophy we play for is ours this year! Thanks were expressed to the club and its staff, especially the caterers who provided an excellent carvery dinner and choice of desserts.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Shropshire & Herefordshire Seniors

Trentham Park GC, Monday 1st July 2019

We arrived at the green and pleasant Trentham Park GC mindful of a forecast of possible showers during the day. Thankfully they didn't materialise. We were again supported, and entertained by the antics (see photo) of our past Captain Terry Henwood. An enjoyable day's very competitive golf saw us come out winners 10 v 8 in this League match encounter. We meet again next month in a 'Friendly', to replace the games we each used to have with Lincolnshire Seniors who have ceased to be funded for non League matches.

Click here for the full match results.

Terry Henwood showing his Pilates honed physique on the observation platform close to the 5th tee at Trentham Park GC!

Staffs Seniors v Warwickshire Seniors

Olton GC, Monday 10th June 2019

Twelve months ago we were in the midst of that incredibly dry & hot spell of weather! The challenge for the Captains as we met at Olton GC, ahead of our second League match of the season, was how to deal with the information from everyone's weather Apps - all predicting armageddon!! To comply with the MGU rules, and be able to produce a result on the day, we needed to get all six Better Ball matches past the sixth hole. It was therefore agreed to forego and halve the morning Foursomes, and commence the Four Ball Better Ball games at the morning start time. In the end we thankfully got all matches played to their conclusion, in wet conditions with one particularly noteworthy drenching downpour! After an excellent meal both teams thanked the club for assisting us to reconfigure the format of our day, with particular praise for the catering team and the fantastic condition of their greens. The overall result went down to the last green in the sixth match, witnessed by Terry Henwood who supported us all on the course, with Warks just winning through 10 v 8. This was an encouraging performance from a team missing Bob Aston and Rob Parkes, with Doug Heggie stepping up over the weekend.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Lancashire Seniors

Wolstanton GC, Monday 20th May 2019

With the forecast for another dry day's golf in store we gathered at this testing course with its six par 3s, to play last year's National Seniors Champions. At their request, and with the club's full support, we'd brought the date of this fixture forward by 10 days to alleviate some fixture congestion. The six morning Greensome matches were played in the usual enjoyable, competitive manner and lunch saw the visitors slightly ahead. In the afternoon Better Ball matches two further games were halved, but with three wins and just the one loss we came through to win the day. We were pleased to have the support of Steve Wild and Mike Entecott on the course in the afternoon, and the company in the clubhouse of the club Captain, President and Acting Manager. The members and particularly staff at the club were thanked by both teams, who included the Lancashire President. We look forward to renewing our many friendships in a year's time, when we'll travel North.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Derbyshire Seniors

Cavendish GC, Wednesday 15th May 2019

We travelled just over the northern border of our County, to play the first League match of the season near Buxton. This Dr. Alister MacKenzie venue (the golf courses at Augusta National and Walsall are amongst his other creations!) looked a delight under clear blue skies on a warm day. Pleasingly all pairings in our team contributed to the winning score, with none of the twelve matches on the day halved! After the usual thanks were given to our host club, and the bills paid, we headed home happy with the result and to have played on this quality course.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Cheshire Seniors

Newcastle GC, Wednesday 8th May 2019

Our first Friendly match of this new season saw us meet at this welcoming club. The overnight and early morning rain, coupled with a forecast that it would cease fairly soon, led the Captains to agree a half for the morning Greensomes. Thus we headed for the first tee soon after 10 o'clock to play our Fourball Better Ball matches. The well drained course thankfully showed little sign of the rain that had fallen and we remained dry for the bulk of the afternoon. At the enjoyable meal after the golf was concluded, brought forward by the accommodating Catering staff, "Chesta" the bear resurfaced. Our respective Men's teams used to play for this 'trophy' and it is now ours, presented to the losers! The visitors, two of whom had previously played for Staffs, and incidentally knew the course much better than our first time players Mike Baker, Mark Pickford and Chris Wonfor (home advantage thus removed) enjoyed a fruitful afternoon winning four and halving two of the six games. The club and all its staff were thanked for their flexibility in accommodating our revised format day, and we look forward to gathering again in Cheshire in a year's time.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Northamptonshire Seniors

Great Barr GC, Tuesday 11th September 2018

Our eighth and final Friendly match of the season saw us visit a now very green set of fairways, as summer's hot and dry spell of weather becomes a distant memory. The incessant early morning rain, coupled with a forecast that it would cease by mid-day led the Captains to agree a half for the morning Greensomes. An early lunch was taken and play got underway at 12.15pm. The well drained course showed little sign of the rain and an enjoyable afternoon's game ensued. A score of 3 & 2 was the result in four of the six matches, but the visitors squeeked home with a win and a half in the other two. Northants were congratulated on winning the East Midlands Seniors League for the first time. The club and all its staff were thanked for their flexibility in accommodating our revised format day.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Worcestershire Seniors

Worcester G&CC, Thursday 30th August 2018

Our fourth and final League match of the season saw us travel to this new course for many of the team. Warwick Holland was able to give us the low-down on the layout, which is like Brocton Hall GC in many ways, with predominantly long and (very) narrow greens. The morning Foursomes meant that at lunch the home team were ahead 4 v 2. Our afternoon Better Ball play saw us proudly come back to tie the match 9 v 9. This result confirms Worcestershire as West Midland League winners for the first time. Our congratulations went to them, along with thanks to the host club and its staff for the day, blessed with warm weather on a course returning to shades of green, rather than beige and a match played in a great spirit.

Click here for the full match results.

League team players v Worcestershire.

Staffs Seniors v Lincolnshire Seniors

Holme Hall GC, Thursday 23rd August 2018

Following an early start our team assembled at this co-host venue (with nearby Elsham GC) for next year's English Seniors Championship. Due to changes in their Seniors funding Lincolnshire will cease playing four 'friendly' fixtures (with ourselves, Shropshire & Herefordshire, Worcestershire & Warwickshire) and so this is the last time we'll play them, until things change. With the golf course turning back to green from straw coloured, after this summer's hot & dry weather, we played to quality greens. After the morning Greensome matches the home team were 4 v 2 ahead. We were met with a barrage of birdies in the afternoon and our depleted team came unstuck, losing all six afternoon Better Ball games. In the short speeches after the tasty meal we thanked the club for all aspects of their welcome, and hoped that we'll play Lincolnshire again before too long.

Click here for the full match results.

County Seniors Better Ball

Newcastle GC, Monday 20th August 2018

This year's Better Ball competitions for the Thomas Trophy (Gross) and Cox Chalice (Nett) took place on a predominantly dry day at Newcastle GC, who are thanked for hosting this prestigious event and showcasing their fine course and facilities.

Click here for the Gross prize winners.

Click here for the Nett prize winners.

Pictured above, left to right, are County Seniors Chairman Andrew Dathan, Rob Parkes & Steve Wild (Trentham GC) with the Gross prize along with County Seniors Championships Organiser Andy Guy.

The winners of the Nett prize, having played in the second group out onto the coures in the morning had understandably given their apologies for the presentation ceremony.

Staffs Seniors v Nottinghamshire Seniors

Notts GC, Monday 13th August 2018

Our team travelled to Hollinwell, many of us to play it for the first time, and what a golfing treat we had in store. After the morning Greensomes, playing holes 1 to 7 then 8a & 9a to get us back to the clubhouse, we were ahead 4 points to 2. In the afternoon things were somewhat different as their team (half of whom were members) turned the tide, with only our number one pairing of Bob Aston and Colin Heard earning any points. With a meal enjoyed, the staff thanked and awards made - see our News section, we travelled home the better for the experience of being hosted at one of the best courses many of us have played.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Cambridgeshire Seniors

Bloxwich GC, Monday 30th July 2018

As we move into the second half of our season we welcomed Cambridgeshire to this friendly club. Another new recruit, Terry Bray (Sandwell Park GC) made an impressive debut in the fifth Friendly match of the season. This club's gently undulating course had just benefitted from the recent rains, after the particularly hot and dry weather that has turned most courses brown. The staff were thanked for looking after us. Many of the close fought matches went to the final green, with the home team, for whom all six pairs contributed to our team score, pleasingly winning 13½ v 4½.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors Championship

Beau Desert GC, Monday 9th July 2018

Click here for the prize winners.

Event report to follow soon.

Ben Rhodes (Beau Desert GC) 2018 Staffs Seniors Champion

Staffs Seniors v Shropshire & Herefordshire Seniors

Ludlow GC, Thursday 5th July 2018

For the third of our four League matches this season we travelled to Ludlow GC, which is set amongst the Race Course. This relatively flat course was hard and bouncy due to the continuing hot, dry weather but the greens were a joy to putt on. The club and staff, including one of their players who is head greenkeeper, were thanked for looking after us all so well. There weren't many close matches during the day's play, which saw home advantage tip the tie in favour of the home team who won 10½ v 7½.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v Leics. & Rutland Seniors

Lichfield G&CC, Monday 2nd July 2018

All four of this year's new recruits played in the fourth Friendly match of the season. This club's course and facilities continue to develop and the staff were thanked for looking after us all so well, especially the greenkeepers for coping with the prolonged hot and dry summer. Amazingly two of the new recruits scored their first hole in one! Congratulations to Andy Martin (Leek GC) on the 8th hole in the morning round and Jim Chambers (Beau Desert GC) on the 4th hole during the afternoon round, and thanks for the drinks during our meal. The home team, for whom all six pairs contributed to our team score, pleasingly won 11½ v 6½.

Pictured left to right are Andy Martin, Mark Ashton and Jim Chambers.

Pictured left to right are Andy Martin, Mark Ashton & Jim Chambers.

Click here for the full match results.

Staffs Seniors v North Wales Seniors

Barlaston GC, Monday 18th June 2018

Our third Friendly match of the season involved us hosting the four Counties that comprise North Wales Counties at Barlaston GC. We were pleased to welcome Jim Chambers of Beau Desert for his first game and Past Captain Tony Wright (Little Aston GC) for the first time this year. Many of the morning 9 hole Greensome and afternoon 18 hole Better Ball matches went all the way to the final green in a close fought and enjoyable encounter. The club and staff were thanked for welcoming us straight after a busy weekend, with their Captain's Day on Saturday and County Boys Championship on Sunday. Of particular note were the fantastic trifles served as dessert! This fixture, now in its fourth year, saw North Wales win for the first time 7½ v 10½.

Click here for the full match results.