Just over an hour or so from our overnight accommodation we journeyed to our next venue, Chipping Sodbury GC, sometimes misattributed by Dr Spooner. We have played tis course on several occasions and it never disappoints, a lovely parkland layout with several ditches crossing fairways awaiting the unwary golfer. The course was in prime condition with excellent greens but not too quick for most. The club is very successful and has several schemes in hand to improve facilities. The club has had a chequered history, the current layout being the fourth course the club has occupied with their Patron, His Grace The Duke of Beaufort, having opened three golf courses in total.
Having suffered a heavy defeat the previous day the Devon boys had a new resolve and results improved somewhat although, not quite enough. The home Captain warned the rough was lush and punitive for sure and, although most fairways were quite generous the many trees lining fairways also produced added problems when offline. With a number of our teams looking good on paper the Gloucester team were strong and local knowledge just tipping in their favour.
With Phil Webb having just two more matches, Stover against the Ladies Captains and Somerset at Torquay it only remains for Phil’s Captain’s Day at Ilfracombe, on Friday 15th September, and his lengthy period of service comes to an end. If not already please consider supporting Phil at his home club.
Once more, as usual, after thanks from both Captains Phil presented the new Trophy to the Gloucester Captain, until next year at Staddon Heights, Several of the Devon team made their weary journey home after three days of golf, weary but a very enjoyable tour, again.
Malcolm Jordain
