John Burrow presenting Geoff Pascoe with the Andrew Bowl
Arriving early at the golf club all seemed to be going swimmingly, players arriving on time in spite of the Devon County Show doing its best to hinder drivers. Weather looking very promising, as forecast, what could possibly go wrong? Our venerable and very respected Secretary Roy Smith had the great misfortune to stumble and fall, whilst returning from the Duckworth Suite where our presentation and AGM would later be held, prior to dinner. Here we must pay tribute to Exeter G&CC staff for their immediate and efficient management of this potentially serious situation. Their first aider very quickly managing Roy’s injuries and summoning paramedics and an ambulance, also helped by a visitor to the club, another first aider. Fortunately, although suffering head and wrist injuries, Roy had not broken any bones but was taken to hospital as a precaution spending several hours in A&E.
So, all hands to the pumps, together with Lew Easter, John Burrow, Michael Badcock, Brian Waggett, Brian Rice and later in the day Henry Paget we managed to get away with the day, just! My thanks also to Tony Jeffs and Ben Lynch for covering starting.
All reports from finishing competitors were very complimentary to the course, excellent condition and fast running greens. Our incoming Officers, Brian Waggett and Brian Rice, had little time to enjoy their upcoming induction. None of the foregoing seriously affected most players day except all of us were very relieved to know that Roy’s daughter Jackie, visiting and dog sitting for the day, had collected him from the RD&E to return him home. When I saw Roy and Jackie in the car park he resembled a Sikh, with his head completely swathed in bandage. As a last gesture of help and friendship Ron Edmunds drove Roy’s car to his home after the day concluded.
I would also like to record your thanks to our sponsors, Golf Tee Time Service and Brittany Ferries Golf desk, both headed up by Graham Ruth who is well known for his support to Devon golf. Five prizes in total including three Brittany Ferry vouchers, a carry bag and Callaway polo shirt, very much appreciated. Unfortunately Graham was unable to join us on the day.
So to the proceedings, presentations and speeches from outgoing and incoming Officers. Our new President Brian Waggett (Stover), Captain Brian Rice (Libbaton) and Vice Captain Graham Heaman (Exminster), we wish them all a very enjoyable year.
Malcolm Jordain
