Bob Clark – Bob Webber – Ted Jones – Ken Leck
Ilfracombe for the second time this year and the weather is so much better this time however, the weather hot and sultry and the stunning views from the golf course not much better than last time. Out at sea a heavy sea mist cancelled out the views to Wales and Lundy Island. Nevertheless the golf club always friendly and welcoming readied itself for the annual battle between Players and “Staff”. Always hotly contested the surprising news was that the “Secs” were two players short. Fortunately the club came up trumps providing two players for the opponents, Roger Jones and the evergreen Bob Butcher who between them provided one an a half points for the visitors.
It is worth mentioning at this time that three times the number asked to be considered for the match at East Devon this week compared to the match at Ilfracombe. Most Captains do not respond favourably to “cherry picking” and consequently may I ask all Captains, who wish to play in matches, select at least three or four venues to be considered for selection. Virtually every match requires at least two replacements to be found, after the team has been selected and published. Please will everyone, who having been selected for a match and then withdrew, reflect upon their own experience in their own golf club and the difficulty in fielding teams.
The golf course played very well and the idiosyncrasies very much favours those who have previous experience. A number of the Secretaries had not played here before and the home side had had a very recent match which must have benefitted considerably. The match always keenly contested, for obvious reasons, was no exception this time wth several “Gimmees” missed.
The highlight of the day was yet to come, the dinner, words and compliments flew in plenty from both sides. In particular the seafood starter was worthy of a first class restaurant. Dean Richardson provides excellent fare in the bar and the restaurant, apparently he receives tremendous support from the membership which is not at all difficult to understand, bravo Dean. With speeches made and enthusiastic applause from the diners, most had long journeys home and started the journey home with full tums and pleasant thoughts of a splendid end to the day!
Malcolm Jordain
Devon v South West Secretaries Team & Result Sheet
