# Norfolk County Golf Union - Full Content > Golf club and union website Generated: 2026-10-10T07:35:09.185Z ## Contact Information Email: secretary@norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk Phone: 07887 747483 Address: Royal Norwich, The Weston Park Estate, Weston Hall Road, Norwich, NR9 5JZ --- # Competitions & Events ## Upcoming Competitions ### Eaton oom **Date:** Sunday, 15 August 2027 **Venue:** Eaton - Norwich - 3 **Category:** Men **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/events/eaton-oom-2027-08-15 **Entry Information:** External Link: https://golfgenius.com/ggid/qv4ezt --- ### County Seniors. Bawburgh **Date:** Thursday, 12 August 2027 **Venue:** Eaton - Norwich - 2 **Category:** Men **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/events/county-seniors-bawburgh-2027-08-12 **Entry Information:** External Link: https://golfgenius.com/ggid/axfn8r --- ### Boys Championships 2027 **Date:** Tuesday, 10 August 2027 **Venue:** Wensum Valley Hotel Golf & Country Club-Valley Course - 2 **Category:** Men **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/events/boys-championships-2027-2027-08-10 **Entry Information:** External Link: https://golfgenius.com/ggid/udyy3e --- ### Middleton Hall oom **Date:** Sunday, 25 July 2027 **Category:** Men **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/events/middleton-hall-oom-2027-07-25 **Entry Information:** External Link: https://golfgenius.com/ggid/gqrfm7 --- ### Gt Yarmouth oom **Date:** Sunday, 11 July 2027 **Category:** Men **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/events/gt-yarmouth-oom-2027-07-11 **Entry Information:** External Link: https://golfgenius.com/ggid/mjzpz4 --- ### County Handicap **Date:** Saturday, 26 June 2027 **Venue:** Norfolk County Golf Union **Category:** Men **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/events/county-handicap-2027-06-26 **Entry Information:** External Link: https://golfgenius.com/ggid/vhfs83 --- ### County Amateur 2027 **Date:** Saturday, 12 June 2027 **Venue:** Norfolk County Golf Union **Category:** Men **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/events/county-amateur-2027-2027-06-12 **Entry Information:** External Link: https://golfgenius.com/ggid/rr6pm7 --- ### Swaffham Oom 2027 **Date:** Sunday, 30 May 2027 **Category:** Men **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/events/swaffham-oom-2027-2027-05-30 **Entry Information:** External Link: https://golfgenius.com/ggid/kkhgah --- ### Coronation Salvers. Wensum Valley **Date:** Sunday, 23 May 2027 **Category:** Mixed **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/events/coronation-salvers-wensum-valley-2027-05-23 **Entry Information:** External Link: https://golfgenius.com/ggid/qscllg --- ### Sprowston oom **Date:** Sunday, 16 May 2027 **Category:** Men **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/events/sprowston-oom-2027-05-16 **Entry Information:** External Link: https://golfgenius.com/ggid/jjzlj9 --- ### Foursomes. Thetford **Date:** Saturday, 24 April 2027 **Category:** Men **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/events/foursomes-thetford-2027-04-24 **Entry Information:** SATURDAY 36 holes’ qualifying, stableford against par, under handicap The first four pairs will qualify for the main Handicap Match Play competition for the Carrick and Thompson Bowls and prizes prese External Link: https://golfgenius.com/ggid/ygewww --- ### Kings Lynn Oom 2027 **Date:** Sunday, 18 April 2027 **Venue:** King's Lynn White Course **Category:** Men **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/events/kings-lynn-oom-2027-2027-04-18 **Entry Information:** External Link: https://golfgenius.com/ggid/zhuwj5 --- ### Wensum Valley OOM **Date:** Sunday, 4 April 2027 **Venue:** Wensum Valley Hotel Golf & Country Club-Valley Course - 2 **Category:** Men **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/events/wensum-valley-oom-2027-04-04 **Entry Information:** External Link: https://golfgenius.com/ggid/xk8u6j --- ### Match play 2026 **Date:** Saturday, 10 October 2026 **Venue:** Bawburgh-Bawburgh - 2 **Category:** Men **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/events/match-play-2026-2026-10-10 **Entry Information:** External Link: https://golfgenius.com/ggid/amlm2m --- ## Past Competitions (Last 12 Months) - **Sunday, 30 August 2026** - Middleton Oom 2026 [Men] - **Sunday, 16 August 2026** - Oom Eaton 2026 at Eaton - Norwich - 3 [Men] - **Monday, 10 August 2026** - Seniors Championship 2026. Eaton at Eaton - Norwich - 2 [Men] - **Sunday, 9 August 2026** - Wensum valley Oom 2026 at Wensum Valley Hotel Golf & Country Club-Valley Course - 2 [Men] - **Thursday, 6 August 2026** - Boy.s Championship 2026.Royal Norwich at Royal Norwich- Main - 2 [Juniors] - **Sunday, 19 July 2026** - Gt YARMOUTH Oom 2026 [Men] - **Sunday, 12 July 2026** - Sprowston Oom 2026 [Men] - **Sunday, 28 June 2026** - Swaffham Oom 2026 [Men] - **Saturday, 20 June 2026** - County Handicap 2026. Caldecott at Norfolk County Golf Union [Men] - **Saturday, 30 May 2026** - County Amateur 2026. Bawburgh at Norfolk County Golf Union [Men] - **Sunday, 24 May 2026** - Coronation Salvers pairs 2026. Ryston Park [Mixed] - **Saturday, 25 April 2026** - Foursomes 2026. Sprowston Manor [Men] - **Sunday, 19 April 2026** - Kings Lynn Oom 2026 at King's Lynn White Course [Men] --- # News & Articles ## Sprowston pals primed for Match Play clash **Published:** Wednesday, 7 October 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/sprowston-pals-primed-for-match-play-clash *Warwick Calasse is looking to top off a great season with a strong performance at this weekend's Norfolk Match Play Championship* Warwick Calasse and Karl Diggens are set for a morning of friendly rivalry this Saturday when they line up against each other in the Norfolk Match Play Championship at Bawburgh Golf Club. The pair are among a high-class field of 16 who will contest the two-day knock-out tournament. Both earned their spot through their fine form in the county’s Order of Merit series, which Calasse won. He only moved to Norfolk in 2023, joining Sprowston Manor where Diggens was club captain at the time. Calasse, 43, said: “I was introduced to Karl within the first week and he's basically been my playing partner come practice partner through winter, through summer.  He and I have become really good friends. “We play a lot of golf together. I know his game well, he knows my game well and he's a very good match play player. “If Karl comes out with the game that I know he can play on a really good day, it will be a close match. “He's very steady off the tee and his putter is deadly. So if he gets on the green, in regulation, he's going to be a tough opponent. “It will be friendly, but competitive. We know that there's something on the line. Karl will definitely be playing to win, I'll be playing to win. But we'll both be encouraging each other to play well.” On paper, Calasse will start favourite for the match-up. The Zimbabwean, who arrived in England just over a decade ago, has had a very good season and earned a Norfolk call-up for the Eastern Counties Foursomes at Seacroft in May.   The plus-2.5 handicap index golfer has also clinched victories at Sprowston Manor and Eaton to help him finish top of the pile in the Order of Merit race. Calasse said: “I think it's a good achievement for me. Golf has been part of my life, but it's never really been something that I've focused on as hard as I have in the past two years. “I always knew I had a natural talent of being able to just strike the ball, but being competitive was never part of my golf make-up. “These past two years have been really competitive golf for me, and it's been an eye-opener, playing with the best players in the county. Playing in the Seacroft competition was a huge eye-opener. “So, I'm proud with winning the Order of Merit, but I still know there's loads of work to be done.” Calasse and Diggens will compete among a string of fellow achievers in the end-of-season showdown at Bawburgh where Harry Brister will aim to defend his crown. County first-teamers, including Ben Rawsthorne, Scott Wright and Sean Rafferty, are in action, as is Norfolk Boys champion Liam Caffyn. Fellow rising star Jack Johnson will compete in the handicap knockout competition, which runs alongside the scratch championship. Johnson, 15, won the handicap order of merit series – just one of many high points for him in 2026. Photo (credit Rushmer PR): Warwick Calasse is looking to top off a great season with a strong performance at this weekend’s Norfolk Match Play Championship Norfolk Match Play Championship Scratch competition draw Harry Brister (Bawburgh) v Jacob Jeary (Bawburgh) Phil Scott (Mundesley) v Jack Bennett (Royal Norwich) Ben Rawsthorne (Bawburgh) v Charlie Green (Bawburgh) Karl Diggens (Sprowston Manor) v Warwick Calasse (Sprowston Manor) Liam Caffyn (Dereham) v Harry Bradfield (Mattishall) Olaf Gent (Thetford) v Scott Wright (Middleton Hall) Sean Rafferty (Royal Norwich) v Dan Palmer (Sprowston Manor) Ryan Clarke (Mundesley) v Alex Day (Bawburgh)   Handicap competition draw   Richard Abbs (Mundesley) v Darren Farman (Great Yarmouth & Caister) Robert Webb (Bawburgh) v Todd Pitcher (Mattishall) David Holt (Dunston Hall) v Ian Daywin (Great Yarmouth & Caister) James Martin (Dunston Hall) v Andy Cranmer (Dunston Hall) Hugo Fisher-Briggs (Royal Norwich) v William Stursberg (Royal Cromer) Matthew Bennett (Wensum Valley) v Stuart Goddard (Wensum Valley) David Fullegar (Sprowston Manor) v Steve Ormston (Dunston Hall) Paddy Green (Bawburgh) v Jack Johnson (Royal Norwich) --- ## Scratch KO triumph for Great Yarmouth & Caister **Published:** Monday, 28 September 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/scratch-ko-triumph-for-great-yarmouth-caister * Norfolk County Golf Union president Stuart Goodman hands over the Scratch Knockout trophy to 2026 champions, Great Yarmouth and Caister Golf Club * Great Yarmouth and Caister Golf Club became the 2026 Norfolk Scratch Knockout champions with a comeback victory over Barnham Broom. GY&C trailed 1-2 at the end of the foursomes, but rallied in stirring style in the singles to record an outright 5.5-3.5 triumph at King’s Lynn Golf Club. Barnham Broom got the better of the morning golf after Terry Simpson and Liam Stubbs got them off to a flying start with a 4 and 2 win in the lead match. James Hill and Simon Hobbs responded for GY&C as they recorded victory by the same margin. But the third and final foursomes tie went the way of Matt Taylor and Jamie Black, who posted a narrow 1-up success. Black teed off first in the afternoon for Barnham Broom and added to his team’s tally with a 2-up win. But GY&C went unbeaten in the following five matches to turn the tables on their opponents. Former Norfolk captain Chris White edged to a 2 and 1 win before Thaine Hacon halved with Taylor. From there it was all GY&C as Hill and Hobbs both surged to 3 and 2 victories ahead of Tom Rutherford’s 4 and 3 triumph in the closing head-to-head. --- ## Norfolk duo unbeaten in England Golf event **Published:** Monday, 28 September 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/norfolk-duo-unbeaten-in-england-golf-event *Henry Saddleton played some fine golf to win both of his matches at the South East Group Under-16s final * Henry Saddleton and Luke Gilding were the standout players for Norfolk as the team lost out at the Under-16s South East Group showdown. Norfolk were beaten 2-6 by the winners Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire (BB&O) and also  went down 3-5 to Hampshire in the England Golf tournament staged at Aspley Guise Golf Club. Saddleton produced some superb golf in collecting maximum points. With a 4 and 3 win secured against his Hampshire opponent, he teed up on the 18th hole all square against BB&O. With the match up for grabs, Saddleton delivered a deft chip to within a couple of inches for a brilliant birdie and clinch a fine 1-up victory. Gilding also emerged unbeaten on the day. Both of his games went to the final green where he landed a 2-up success against Hampshire and halved with BB&O. Toby Lewin also put a point on the board, thanks to a 4 and 2 win against Hampshire. And Louie Raine put behind him a difficult start to claim a half-point from his match-up with a BB&O player. Jack Johnson also impressed with the quality of his driving on a blustery day and Marley Workman, Louis Smith and Liam Caffyn all demonstrated the grit that has been such a hallmark of the side this season. Norfolk County Golf Union development officer Sammy Martin said: “It was an excellent effort from the boys and great to see them competing at this level. “Thank you to all of the boys that have represented the Under-16s this season – also thanks to their coach Greg Caffyn for his commitment to the group. “We know we have much to do going forward as we seek to raise the bar even higher. But we are excited by the challenge and will do everything we can to ensure this talented group of young golfers achieves its potential.” Norfolk Under-16s: Liam Caffyn, Luke Gilding, Jack Johnson, Toby Lewin, Louie Raine, Henry Saddeton, Louis Smith, Marley Workman. Pics (Rushmer PR) --- ## Draws for the 2026 County Match Play Finals announced **Published:** Monday, 21 September 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/draws-for-the-2026-county-match-play-finals-announced *The 2025 Match Play champions Harry Brister and Richard Abbs will be back at Bawburgh to defend their titles* The draw for the finals of the County Scratch and Handicap Match Play, sponsored by Norwich Family Golf Centre, have been completed.  As is traditional, the winners of last year's competitions, together with the respective County champions and Boys champions, are seeded 1, 2 and 3 in each draw and will be joined by those players who finished highest in the Race to Bawburgh Order of Merit Tables. In the Scratch, Harry Brister (seeded 1) will begin his defence against fellow Bawburgh member Jacob Jeary, whilst Amateur champion Sully Goddard (2) takes on Ryan Clarke. Meantime, Liam Caffyn (3), who won the Boys championship, will play Harry Bradfield and Warwick Calasse (4), who won the OOM, will start against Sprowston Manor team-mate Karl Diggens. In the Handicap, defending champion Richard Abbs (1) starts against Darren Farman, and County champion - and OOM winner - Jack Johnson (2) is drawn to play Paddy Green. Boys champion Hugo Fisher-Briggs (3) takes on William Stursberg whilst OOM runner-up Andy Cranmer (4) is up against fellow Dunston Hall member James Martin. The full draws are listed below and matches will be played at Bawburgh Golf Club on the weekend of 10th/11th October. NCGU 2026 Scratch Match Play Draw Harry Brister (1) vs Jacob Jeary (16) Darren Abbs (9) vs Jack Bennett 8) Ben Rawsthorne (5) vs Charlie Green (12) Karl Diggens (13) vs Warwick Calasse (4) Liam Caffyn (3) vs Harry Bradfield (14) Olaf Gent (11) vs Scott Wright (6) Sean Rafferty (7) vs Dan Palmer (10) Ryan Clarke (15) vs Sullivan Goddard (2) NCGU 2026 Handicap Match Play Draw Richard Abbs (1) vs Darren Farman (16) Robert Webb (9) vs Todd Pitcher (8) David Holt (5) vs Ian Daywin (12) James Martin (13) vs Andy Cranmer (4) Hugo Fisher-Briggs (3) vs William Stursberg (14) Matthew Bennett (11) vs Stuart Goddard (6) David Fullegar (7) vs Steven Ormston (10) Paddy Green (15) vs Jack Johnson (2) --- ## Dunston Hall crowned Myhill Trophy champions **Published:** Monday, 21 September 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/dunston-hall-crowned-myhill-trophy-champions *Norfolk County Golf Union vice-president Chris Lamb hands over the Myhill Trophy to Dunston Hall captain James Flesher* Dunston Hall got their hands on the Myhill Trophy for the first time since 2012 after they beat Mattishall 5-3 in this year’s final at Eaton Golf Club. Dunston always held the upper hand in the 36-hole foursomes format tournament, leading 3-1 at the halfway stage. In the first match, James Flesher and Jonny Webb enjoyed a hard-fought 2&1 victory over Mattishall pair Harry Bradfield and Tarro Giannesi. Playing directly behind them, Dunston duo Scott Sealey and Scott Nunn made light work of giving away eight shots. They eased to a comfortable 6&5 success over John Knight and Mark Taylor. Jimmy Martins and Mark Smith moved Dunston further clear, holding their nerve down the last in the face of a spirited fightback from James Buck and Chris Reynolds. That proved a crucial point for Dunston, given that Mattishall combination Nick Paling and Andrew Curson closed out the morning play with a narrow victory. Holding a two-point cushion as they began the second set of matches, Dunston moved further clear when Sealey and Nunn surged to another thumping triumph. And Flesher and Webb helped them cross the line as they battled to a second success of the day. Mattishall had the edge in the bottom two games. Paling and Curson recorded their second point of the final as Buck and Reynolds also registered a win for the 2026 runners-up. Teams – Dunston Hall: James Flesher, Jimmy Martin, Scott Nunn, Paul Reade, Scott Sealey, Martin Smith, Steve Tidy, Jonny Webb Mattishall: Harry Bradfield, James Buck, Andrew Curson, Tarro Giannesi, John Knight, Nick Paling, Chris Reynolds, Mark Taylor --- ## Heads held high at South East final **Published:** Monday, 21 September 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/heads-held-high-at-south-east-final *The Norfolk Under-18s team and NCGU officials at Buckingham Golf Club ahead of the South East Group Under-18 final.* Norfolk Under-18s gave a spirited account of themselves as they lost out in the South East Group final at Buckingham Golf Club. The eight-man side was beaten 2-6 by eventual champions Hampshire and also went down 3-5 to the combined team of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. But there was still a list of positives for the Norfolk squad, who won through to the final by virtue of winning a tri-series against Suffolk and Bedfordshire. Theo Pudney won both of his matches in the final and also Jack Johnson, Jake Gunby and Liam Caffyn secured a victory each. Norfolk Under-18s coach Ryan Pudney said: “It was a fantastic effort from the group to put up a really strong showing. “In particular, in the back nine we were competing quite well in both matches. For a hole here or there, the scores would have been very, very close. “I’d just like to wish Luis King and Theo the best of luck as they move out of junior golf – and also, although they weren’t present at this fixture, Jake Hurren and Harry Thomas, who played a big part in us getting to the final in the first place. “Lastly, I want to say ‘well done’ to all the boys on their achievements over the season.” County Development Officer Sammy Martin was also pleased with the squad’s efforts at Buckingham GC. She said: “To finish third of 11 counties, my summing up would be: what a massive step forward in our Under-18s development. And we will learn from the experience. “We should herald personal performances from Theo in conjunction with a team effort that gave everything – the Norfolk lion roared again!” Norfolk Under-18s: Jack Bennett, Liam Caffyn, Jake Gunby, Jack Johnson, Luis King, Theo Pudney, Louis Raine, Cam Tilly. Also played in 2026: Luke Gilding, Sully Goddard, Louis Hawes, Louis Smith, Harry Thomas. --- ## Dunston Hall and Mattishall do battle for Myhill Trophy **Published:** Friday, 18 September 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/dunston-hall-and-mattishall-do-battle-for-myhill-trophy *Dunston Hall and Mattishall meet in the Myhill Trophy Final at Eaton Golf Club on Sunday* Mattishall and Dunston Hall are primed to contest the final of the Myhill Trophy at Eaton Golf Club on September 20. The Myhill Trophy is a prestigious inter-club team knockout tournament open to golfers with handicap indices of 9.9 or lower. This Sunday the two finalists, each comprised of four pairs, will play 36 holes under the foursomes  format. Dunston Hall, who last claimed the Myhill silverware in 2012, have already recorded victories over  Mundesley, Dereham, Thetford and Eaton this season. Opponents Mattishall, who won the trophy in 2023, have seen off challenges from Ryston Park, Sheringham and Bawburgh to make their second final in three years. Good luck to both teams. --- ## Norfolk Boys take on Hampshire in regional final **Published:** Friday, 18 September 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/norfolk-boys-take-on-hampshire-in-regional-final *Coach Ryan Pudney’s Norfolk team will play against Hampshire on Sunday in the South-East Group Under 18s League Final* Norfolk Under 18s are all set to play Hampshire on September 20 in the final of the South-East Group championship. The 18-hole singles matchplay event will be held at Buckingham Golf Club and Norfolk will be represented by Liam Caffyn, Jack Johnson, Jack Bennett, Louie Raine, Cam Tilly, Theo Pudney, Jake Gunby and Luis King. Good luck to our team and we hope that they can top off a fantastic season with one more victory. --- ## Thetford to represent Norfolk in national team championship **Published:** Friday, 18 September 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/thetford-to-represent-norfolk-in-national-team-championship *Sully Goddard and Danny Loveday won the Team Shield at the County Amateur along with Ed Dimambro. Josh Chamberlain will join Sully and Danny at the English Club Championship * Thetford Golf Club will fly the flag for the Norfolk County Golf Union when contesting the English Men’s Champion Club competition at Kedleston Park on September 19-20. Sully Goddard, Danny Loveday and Josh Chamberlain will represent Thetford, who earned the right of a place at the Derbyshire-staged finale by virtue of winning the team event at the Norfolk Amateur Championship, held in May at Bawburgh Golf Club. The Thetford trio will compete individually over 36 holes at Kedleston Park where aggregate scores from all three each day will count towards the final result. We wish them the very best of luck. --- ## Norfolk champions in action at Woodhall Spa **Published:** Friday, 18 September 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/norfolk-champions-in-action-at-woodhall-spa *Sully Goddard was in action at Woodhall Spa last weekend* Sully Goddard continued his excellent run of form with a fine top-five finish at England Golf’s County Champion of Champions competition at Woodhall Spa Golf Club in Lincolnshire. The England Under-18 international played his way into the thick of the battle for the Men’s title. Goddard, a member at Thetford Golf Club, posted an opening one-over-par round of 74 – and then produced a storming second-round charge. He made two birdies on the front nine before dropping a shot at the 11th. But he responded superbly, finding an eagle and two more birdies to move within touching distance of the leaders. A slip-up at the 17th halted his bold bid for glory. However, he still signed for a four-under-par tally of 69 and finished just three strokes back from top spot – an excellent effort in high-class company. Carl Green (Great Yarmouth & Caister) delivered a solid showing in the Seniors tournament. He compiled back-to-back 77s to sit in tied-11th place on eight-over-par. Dereham golfer Liam Caffyn also came away with his head held high from the Boys competition. He finished in 19th place, having shot 78 and 79 for an 11-over par total. Congratulations to all three of our champions competing for Norfolk at this prestigious event. --- ## Peter Johns **Published:** Wednesday, 16 September 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/peter-johns Peter Johns has stepped down from his role as secretary of Norfolk County Golf Union. We thank him for his service over many years in the role. The process of recruiting his successor is now under way and we will announce the appointment in due course. --- ## Watts the story – Barnham Broom glory **Published:** Wednesday, 16 September 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/watts-the-story-barnham-broom-glory *The victorious Barnham Broom team are all smiles after winning the Cullington Cup* Father and son combination Robbie and Jay Watts were the toast of Barnham Broom Golf Club after the pair brought home the Cullington Cup at the end of a three-hole play-off. The 2026 final of Norfolk’s team knockout foursomes competition for players with handicap indices ranging between 10 and 18 took place at Sprowston Manor – and what a battle unfolded between Barnham Broom and Mattishall. Barnham Broom came out on top from the morning matches, claiming a 3-1 halfway lead. But Mattishall turned the tables on their opponents in the second set of ties to leave the final score at 4-4. That meant extra holes were required to decide the title outcome and the Watts duo duly stood tall for Barnham Broom. They faced up to Mattishall pair Todd Pitcher and Connor Mulcahy in what turned out to be a thrilling play-off staged across the 18th. Jay Watts hit a superb greenside bunker shot at the second extra hole, allowing his dad to hole out from a couple of feet for the half. It was a similar scenario at the next after opponents Mattishall found the green from over 200 yards at the par-5. With the light fading, the Mattishall men failed to take advantage of their fine approach work and Robbie Watts holed the winning putt from close range after an excellent pitch from his son. Teams Barnham Broom – Stuart Black, Dave Dicken, David Kerslake, Gary Lutkin, Lyndon Moon, Aaron Tillett, Jay Watts, Robbie Watts. Mattishall – Mark Burton, Dave Charles, Gavin Fisher, Stuart Harvey, Martin Jarred, Connor Mulcahy, Todd Pitcher, Kevin Riseborough, --- ## Three and easy for Sheringham seniors **Published:** Thursday, 10 September 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/three-and-easy-for-sheringham-seniors *2026 Norfolk Seniors scratch champions, Sheringham Golf Club. Left to right: John Little, Mark Williamson, Jon Batten, Neil Milton, Chris Lamb (Norfolk County Golf Union vice-president), Gary Brayshaw (Sheringham captain), Dean Futter, Steve Dunsire, Paul Sennett (reserve) Photo credit - Rushmer PR* Sheringham Golf Club sealed a three-peat in the Norfolk Seniors Scratch Knockout – thanks to an emphatic victory over Caister and Great Yarmouth. The defending champions won all five matches in a one-sided final staged at Royal Norwich Golf Club. The closest of the ties was the sole foursomes encounter in which Sheringham pair Jon Batten and Neil Milton trailed at the turn. But they fought back and on the final green eventually claimed a 1-up success against Paul Whiting and Chris Fielding. In the singles, Dean Futter and Mark Williamson turned on the style as they both recorded 6 and 4 victories. Steve Dunsire enjoyed a hard-fought battle with Josh Brooks before closing out a 3 and 2 win. In the last match on the course, John Little ensured a Sheringham clean sweep as he beat Blair Ainslie 3 and 1. Their title triumph followed victories in previous rounds over Royal Norwich, Hunstanton and King’s Lynn. Sheringham’s non-playing captain Gary Brayshaw said: “We’ve played every match away from home this year, so it’s been a tough season. But we’re a strong side and getting stronger. “I cannot overstate how proud I am of everyone. This hasn’t happened by chance. It’s down to the quality of our players, competition for places, preparation, commitment and – most importantly – the belief that we can win for each other.” Norfolk County Golf Union Seniors Scratch Knockout – final at Royal Norwich Sheringham 5 v Great Yarmouth & Caister 0 (Sheringham players listed first) Jon Batten and Neil Milton won 1-up v Paul Whiting and Chris Fielding Steve Dunsire won 3&2 v Josh Brooks Dean Futter won 6&4 v Simon Peck Mark Williamson won 6&4 v Jonathan Rice John Little won 3&1 v Blair Ainslie --- ## Norfolk lose out to local rivals **Published:** Sunday, 6 September 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/norfolk-lose-out-to-local-rivals *Norfolk’s two county men’s golf teams closed their respective Anglian League seasons with losses at the hands of Suffolk.* Norfolk’s first team went down 3.5-8.5 at Thetford Golf Club and the seconds were defeated 4.5-7.5 at Bungay and Waveney Valley Golf Club. The key positive from the firsts was the performance of debutant Liam Caffyn. The Norfolk Boys champion halved his morning foursomes match in partnership with Scott Sealey. Caffyn, 16, fared even better in the singles as he secured a determined 2-up victory against a very experienced opponent. Josh Chamberlain and George Morris also played some good golf in finishing up all square in their respective singles games. Norfolk’s other point on the day came from Carl Green and Scott Wright, who gained a 1-up victory in the foursomes. At Bungay and Waveney Valley, Norfolk fielded a talented but very inexperienced second team. The side, which included two debutants among its five juniors, emerged with their heads held high. Jake Hurren performed superbly on his second-team bow, winning his singles clash after securing a half alongside Matt Strudwick in their foursomes match. Fellow teenager Henry Saddleton also claimed 1.5 points and Jake Gunby posted a win in his singles match. Toby Lewin, 15, also showed a lot of promise in his first appearance for Norfolk’s second team. Simon Clark said: “When Carl Green and I took on the role as joint managers of Norfolk County Golf Union’s men’s squad, we always felt this year would be challenging. “But we have started to see plenty of green shoots, especially among the juniors who have been selected to play. They have all performed with an enormous amount of credit, not least on the last day of the season. “Liam Caffyn did exceptionally well on his first-team debut – as did Jake Hurren in his first appearance for the seconds. “Overall, Carl and I would like to thank all the players who represented the county during the 2026 Anglian League season. “We feel there’s a lot to be positive about as we make our plans for the winter coaching sessions ahead of the 2027 season in which I expect us to make further progress.” Anglian League result Norfolk 1st team 3.5 Suffolk 8.5 (Played at Thetford Golf Club)   Foursomes (Norfolk players named first) George Morris and Nic Sperrin lost 2&1 v Alfie Halil and George Fricker Liam Caffyn and Scott Sealey a/s v Will Wright and Patrick Coffey Josh Chamberlain and Sean Rafferty lost 1-down v Sam Renville and Connor Talbot Carl Green and Scott Wright won 1-up v Russell Oakey and Dan Hedges Singles Rafferty lost 4&3 v Halil Sperrin lost 7&6 v Fricker Morris a/s v Coffey Caffyn won 2-up Sealey lost 6&5 v Renville Green lost 1-down v Talbot Chamberlain a/s v Oakey Wright lost 2&1 v Hedges   Norfolk 2nd team 4.5 Suffolk 2nd team 7.5 (Played at Bungay and Waveney Valley Golf Club) Foursomes (Norfolk players named first) Warwick Calasse and Henry Saddleton won 1-up v Dominic Rudd and Harry Brinded Jake Gunby and Toby Lewin lost 2&1 v Chris Bartrum and Dylan Cook Robert Wilson and Luis King lost 1-down v Jimmy Price and Louis Sturman Matt Strudwick and Jake Hurren a/s v Marc Duszynski and James Tyler Singles Calasse lost 2&1 v Bartrum Saddleton a/s v Rudd Lewin lost 3&1 v Brinded Gunby won 2&1 v Tyler King lost 1-down v Cook Hurren won 2&1 v Sturman Price won 3&2 v Wilson Strudwick a/s v Duszynski   Photos (Rushmer PR) --- ## Race to Bawburgh **Published:** Monday, 31 August 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/race-to-bawburgh *The final Order of Merit event was held at Middleton Hall on Sunday and it was home club member Scott Wright who won the Scratch with a 1-over par 72. Scott was two shots ahead of Karl Diggens but, in the Handicap, Karl reversed the placings with a nett 70 beating Scott into second place, again by 2 shots.* Having played in all eight events, the winner of the Scratch OOM is Warwick Calasse from Sprowston Manor. The winner of the Handicap OOM is Jack Johnson from Royal Norwich. Congratulations to Warwick and Jack who will be presented with the respective Heacham Manor Trophies. The top four in each competition will receive prize vouchers: Scratch OOM Warwick Calasse (Sprowston Manor) - 337.50 pts Ben Rawsthorne (Bawburgh) - 305.00 Scott Wright (Middleton Hall) - 266.67 Sean Rafferty (Royal Norwich) - 192.50 Handicap OOM Jack Johnson (Royal Norwich) - 225.00 pts Andy Cranmer (Dunston Hall) - 208.50 David Holt (Dunston Hall) - 192.50 Charlie Green (Bawburgh) - 190.00 Invitations will be sent out this week to all the qualifiers for the NCGU Match Play finals to be held at Bawburgh Golf Club on the weekend of 11th & 12th October. If anyone is unable to play, reserves will be contacted based upon where they finished in the final OOM tables. A thank you to all the players for supporting the OOMs this season and also to the golf clubs that have hosted each of the competitions. Finally, a special thank you to our Competitions Administrator, Norman Blanch, for preparing, attending and running all the events. For the latest points tables go to the Order of Merit section of the website. --- ## Title triumph for Norfolk senior golfers **Published:** Friday, 21 August 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/title-triumph-for-norfolk-senior-golfers *Norfolk Seniors squad celebrate their East Anglian Senior League title success. Jon Batten (Sheringham), Mark Butt (King’s Lynn), Simon Butts (Hunstanton), Dean Futter (Eaton), Carl Green (Great Yarmouth & Caister), Chris Lamb (Royal Norwich), Iain Reid (Eaton), John Shapland (Swaffham), Mark Williamson (Sheringham), Iain Yule (King’s Lynn). Photo supplied by supplied by Rushmer PR.* Norfolk stormed to the East Anglian Senior League title with an emphatic win against Cambridgeshire at Thetford Golf Club. Norfolk powered to an 11.5-3.5 victory to climb above Lincolnshire and claim the title by a point. It was the first time since 2021 that Norfolk had finished at the summit. The hosts produced a near-faultless performance across the day, asserting early on in the morning foursomes. Carl Green and Chris Lamb led the way in the opening match, posting Norfolk’s first point courtesy of a 2 and 1 win. Sheringham duo Jon Batten and Mark Williamson quickly recorded another success before King’s Lynn pairing Iain Yule and Mark Butt made it 3-0. Eaton combination Iain Reid and Dean Futter suffered a slender loss on the final green but John Shapland and Simon Butts eased to a 3 and 2 victory to give Norfolk a healthy 4-1 lead at lunch. Reid headed up the home side’s singles order and blazed a trail with a comfortable 7 and 6 success. But Futter soon went one better as he closed out a thumping victory on the 11th green. With Norfolk needing just two more points to win the overall match, Lamb and Green almost simultaneously signed off on their respective clashes. Lamb, who played some terrific golf during the day, rammed home a putt on the 15th green to triumph 5 and 3. And on the hole in front of him, Green was busy applying the final touches to a 3 and 2 victory. Shapland, Williamson and Yule all won to keep the points piling up for Norfolk and Butt took a half from the last match out on the course. Norfolk’s stylish eight-point victory was a brilliant way to close out a campaign in which they remained unbeaten across their four league matches. Non-playing captain Gary Brayshaw said: “It has been a real squad effort this year. People have bought into what we want to do, how we want to play. And there has been a healthy competition for places, which really helped. “We’ve had a few knockbacks in the past, which makes this taste even sweeter. To come from where we have to be where we are now is a great achievement. I’m absolutely proud of them.” --- ## Eaton triumph in Barnard thriller **Published:** Wednesday, 19 August 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/eaton-triumph-in-barnard-thriller *The Eaton squad are all smiles after securing the Barnard Trophy silverware.* Eaton Golf Club won the Barnard Trophy via a play-off at the end of a gripping final with Middleton Hall at Barnham Broom. Middleton Hall fired out of bounds off the tee at the first extra hole as Eaton combination Peter Collins and Neil Augustin’s ball lay on the short grass. Collins and Augustin went on to negotiate safely the remainder of the par-4 18th to bring to a conclusion the annual annual foursomes knockout competition for over-55s. Earlier a tense afternoon’s golf began with Augustin and Andy Hood triumphing 3 and 2 in the first match out on the course. Eaton quickly claimed another point as Collins and Garry Davis recorded a 7 and 5 success. But Middleton Hall soon hit back with a convincing victory of their own as Nigel Ward and Steve Symonds powered home 8 and 6. Eaton pair David Bussey and David Marshall were involved in a much closer encounter with David Freeman and Andy Thaxton. It went right to the wire before the four men shook hands on a halved match on the final green. That was also the scene for the last game in which Middleton Hall duo Phil Jones and David Wright pulled off a brilliant ‘save’ from a greenside bunker to help them secure a 1-up win. But with the sides locked at 2.5-2.5, Colins and Augustin emerged victorious from the play-off drama to bring home the silverware for Eaton. --- ## Champions at last – Norfolk Boys triumph after 23-year quest **Published:** Tuesday, 18 August 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/champions-at-last-norfolk-boys-triumph-after-23-year-quest *Norfolk Boys golf team with the silverware and winners’ medals after their Anglian League Junior Championship triumph. Back row (l-to-r) Jake Gunby, Sully Goddard, Theo Pudney (captain), Cam Tilly, Jack Johnson; front row: Jack Bennett, Liam Caffyn, Toby Lewin, Marley Workman. Photo (Rushmer PR)* A slice of history. Norfolk won the Anglian League Junior Team Championship for the first time since 2003 with a brilliant performance at Swaffham Golf Club. In a gripping final, all eight Norfolk golfers contributed to the points tally as they beat a talented and determined Leicestershire & Rutland side 7.5-4.5. The host county qualified for the title match earlier in the month, beating both Suffolk and Cambridgeshire. That initial success earned Norfolk a shot at the same opposition who overcame them in last year’s final at Boston Golf Club. On that occasion Leicestershire & Rutland dominated the morning foursomes – but this time it was a different story. In the lead match Norfolk duo Sully Goddard and playing partner Theo Pudney stormed to victory. Pudney holed out from 18 foot for eagle at the 15th and tapped in for birdie at the next to clinch a 3 and 2 win. Liam Caffyn and Toby Lewin also posted a point as Norfolk edged 2.5-1.5 ahead going into the singles. But Leicestershire & Rutland made a superb start to the afternoon action. At one stage, across a series of tight matches, only Lewin – who would power to an emphatic victory – led for the home county. Gradually, Norfolk began to assert and recently-crowned county boys’ champion Caffyn pulled off a superb turnaround, taking the last two holes for a 1-up win. Cam Tilly fought back bravely from 3-down to hole an eight-footer on the last and claim a half-point. Jack Johnson followed suit from a similar distance also to finish all square at the end of a see-saw match. Jack Bennett, another to trail early on, chipped in with a half-point and it was left to Sully Goddard to take Norfolk through to outright victory. The England Boys international came up with a contender for shot of the day at the par-5 15th where he applied the deftest of chips for an eagle with the ball falling into the cup on its final roll.    Goddard eventually shook hands on a 2 and 1 win just before Jake Gunby halved his head-to-head on the final green. Norfolk’s triumph had been a collective effort, right down to the encouragement of reserve Marley Workman, who had more than played his part in the early-August qualifier in which he had a 100 per cent record from four matches. Norfolk’s county development officer Sammy Martin said: “It was a tremendous performance from a team that has worked relentlessly to improve its capabilities. “We are delighted to win but also excited by the future. For Norfolk’s junior squads to maximise their potential, it’s important that everyone continues to strive hard going forward.” Anglian League Junior Team Championship Norfolk 7.5 Leicestershire and Rutland 4.5 (Played at Swaffham Golf Club) Foursomes (Norfolk players named first) Sully Goddard and Theo Pudney won 3&2 v George Herbert and Patrick Dempsey Jack Bennett and Jack Johnson lost 6&4 v Tom Farley and Noah Williams Cam Tilly and Jake Gunby a/s v Rishan Pankharna and Will Simpkin Liam Caffyn and Toby Lewin won 1-up v Finley Gower and Freddie Mayfield Singles Pudney lost 1-down v Farley Caffyn won 1-up v Herbert Tilly a/s v Simpkin Bennett a/s v Pankhhana Johnson a/s v Dempsey Lewin won 8&7 v Mayfield Gunby a/s v Gower Goddard won 2&1 v Williams --- ## Race to Bawburgh **Published:** Monday, 17 August 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/race-to-bawburgh *The penultimate Order of Merit took place at Eaton Golf Club on Sunday with a field of 52 players.* Warwick Calasse (Sprowston Manor) won his second scratch event of the season with a score of 71, just ahead of Sean Rafferty (Royal Norwich) on count-back. In the handicap, the winner was David Holt (Dunston Hall) with a nett 67, one shot better than County Handicap champion Jack Johnson (Royal Norwich). It's all change at the top of the Order of Merit Tables: Scratch 1st - Warwick Calasse (Sprowston Manor) - 307.50 points 2nd - Ben Rawsthorne (Bawburgh) - 250.00 3rd - Sean Rafferty (Royal Norwich) - 192.50 4th - Jack Bennett (Royal Norwich) - 178.75 Handicap 1st - Jack Johnson (Royal Norwich) - 225.00 points 2nd - Andy Cranmer (Dunston Hall) - 208.50 3rd - David Holt (Dunston Hall) - 192.50 4th - Charlie Green (Bawburgh) - 190.00 The final Order of Merit will be held at Middleton Hall on Sunday 30th August - spaces are still available for anyone wanting to enter - after which the draws will be made for the Match Play Finals at Bawburgh in October. For the latest points tables go to the Order of Merit section of the website. --- ## Race to Bawburgh **Published:** Thursday, 13 August 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/race-to-bawburgh *Well done to all those who braved the heat at the Order of Merit at Wensum Valley on Sunday.* Congratulations to Olaf Gent (Thetford) who won the scratch event with a score of 75, just pipping Jack Bennett (Royal Norwich) on countback. A similar story in the handicap event saw Stuart Goddard ahead of fellow Wensum Valley member Stephen Hutt, both scoring a nett 71. After six events, the standings in the Order of Merit Tables are very close and, with prizes for the top four places in each one, there is much to play for. The current tables can be found on the NCGU website, but the leaders are: Scratch Ben Rawsthorne (Bawburgh) - 250 points Warwick Calasse (Sprowston Manor) - 215 points Handicap Stuart Goddard (Wensum Valley) - 177.5 points Andy Cranmer (Dunston Hall) - 173.5 points And with only two events still to be played - at Eaton on 16th August and Middleton Hall on 30th August - the Race to Bawburgh is starting to take shape. Along with the automatic qualifiers listed below, the leading 13 players in both the final Scratch and Handicap Tables (subject to a minimum of 3 events) will be invited to take part in the Match Play finals in October. Automatically qualified for Bawburgh and seeded 1, 2 and 3 are: Scratch Harry Brister (Bawburgh) - 2025 Match Play Champion Sully Goddard (Thetford) - 2026 County Amateur Champion Liam Caffyn (Dereham) - 2026 County Boys Champion Handicap Richard Abbs (Mundesley) - 2025 Match Play Champion Jack Johnson (Royal Norwich) - 2026 County Handicap Champion Hugo Fisher-Briggs (Royal Norwich) - 2026 County Boys Handicap Champion For the latest points tables go to the Order of Merit section of the website. --- ## Green secures Seniors Championship at first attempt **Published:** Tuesday, 11 August 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/green-secures-seniors-championship-at-first-attempt *Norfolk County Seniors Champions Bernie Vaughan (l) and Carl Green (r) * Carl Green produced an impressive performance to win the Norfolk Seniors Championship by three shots at Eaton Golf Club. The Great Yarmouth and Caister golfer teed off in the first group out, alongside Norfolk Seniors team-mates Iain Reid and Dean Futter. Green recorded three birdies in a one-over-par round of 71 to claim the title from Simon Tilbrook of Royal Norwich and Eaton member James Macleod. Green, 55, said: “This was my first time playing in the Seniors and I'm very happy. I've won the Boys Championship, the Norfolk Open and the County Matchplay in the past so it's really nice to add this one. "I played solid all through the round but especially on the three par-5's, all of which I reached the green in two and made birdies. This is a fantastic event, with a very large field, so I'm happy to win." Norfolk County Golf Union's joint team manager Green now qualifies for England Golf's County Seniors Champion of Champions tournament at Woodhall Spa Golf Club on September 13. Wensum Valley golfer Bernie Vaughan won the County Seniors handicap title with an excellent round of nett 67, including birdies at the 5th and 12th holes. It was a close call for Vaughan who triumphed on countback from Tim Cunningham of The Links. Vaughan dominated in the Super Seniors categories, for players aged 70 and over. His gross score of 77 saw him land both the Scratch and Handicap titles. Reid and Futter, along with Stephen Long, won the team competition for the host club. Bawburgh trio Paolo Payne, Ian Rafferty and Adrian Sabberton came out on top in the handicap team event. A hundred players took part in one of Norfolk County Golf Union’s biggest championships and the course at Eaton was in excellent condition, considering the hot summer.  NCGU president Stuart Goodman and vice-president Chris Lamb attended as starters and Norman Blanch and Mike Devlin provided essential administration and scoring duties during a long day. --- ## Sully savours England action **Published:** Saturday, 8 August 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/sully-savours-england-action *Norfolk golfer Sully Goddard had a week to remember as he helped England Girls and Boys win the Home Internationals title at Monifieth Links in Scotland.* Goddard was making his international debut and played his part as Team England pipped  Ireland for top spot in the combined event. The Thetford golfer’s highlight was a superb final-day 2 and 1 singles success against an Irish opponent as England Boys made it three wins from three matches. Goddard, 17, said: “It was such a fun experience competing in the Home Internationals. “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to represent my country and I can take so much away from the experience, having learned a lot on and off the golf course. “It’s an experience I’ll never forget.” Fellow Norfolk teenager Harry Thomas also teed up for Wales Boys and enjoyed two victories during the tournament. The Eaton golfer posted a 5 and 4 singles win against Ireland and a 3 and 2 comeback triumph in a foursomes tie against a Scottish pairing. But Wales were unable to record a team win in Thomas’s last year in junior international golf.   Thomas, 18, said: “I really enjoyed my final Home Internationals. To have played three has been a great opportunity and I can’t thank the team at Wales Golf enough for everything they have done for me. “It’s a special week  and to spend it with so many close friends made it even better. “As a team, the result wasn’t what we were looking for, but personally I felt I played some great golf and have many positives to take forward.” Both boys are in action this week at the R&A Boys' Amateur Championship at Gailes Links in Ayrshire. Photo 1 (supplied by the Goddard family): Sully Goddard enjoyed his Home Internationals debut as England Girls and Boys scooped the silverware Photo 2 (supplied by the Thomas family): Harry Thomas posted two points for in his final Home Internationals series for Wales Boys --- ## Super Seb’s winning spree **Published:** Saturday, 8 August 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/super-sebs-winning-spree *Three golf triumphs in four days – schoolboy Sebastian Minors is having a summer holidays to remember!* The Norfolk County Golf Union 12-year-old began his hat-trick heroics by beating his elders in the historic Penn Cup at Royal Norwich Golf Club. Town Close pupil Sebastian eased to a three-point victory in the men’s Stableford competition, which was first played more than a century ago. Two days later and his winning ways were to the fore in the Bawburgh Junior Open. Sebastian took the handicap prize thanks to a net score of 66. And the following day he capped an incredible run of form with a double success at the Mattishall Junior Open. Sebastian, whose handicap index has now come down to 11.6, won the scratch and handicap prizes with a brilliant six-over par round of 76, which also equated to a net 62. He puts his hot streak down to a recent putting lesson with Eaton-based PGA professional Chase Davis – and also having a strong mindset. “I just think really positively,” said Sebastian, who has featured in Norfolk’s Under-12 and Under-14 squads. He has played golf since the age of five and is coached at Royal Norwich by professional Lloyd Jones. Photos (Rushmer PR) --- ## Caffyn clinches county boys’ crown **Published:** Friday, 7 August 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/caffyn-clinches-county-boys-crown *Liam Caffyn demonstrated a full set of skills to claim victory in the Norfolk Boys Championship at Royal Norwich Golf Club.* The Dereham golfer shot a level-par round of 73 to earn a place at England Golf’s ‘Boys County Champion of Champions’ tournament at Woodhall Spa on September 12-13. Caffyn, who last year won the Midlands U16s Boys Stroke Play Championship, finished two shots in front of fellow Norfolk second-team golfers Jake Gunby and Theo Pudney. Caffyn, 16, said: “It means a lot, really. Going into the day, it was just like I wanted it done – I wanted to be that champion. Get my name on the trophy and to play in the Champion of Champions in a month's time.  “The Midlands last year was a big, big achievement. But I think I've been a bit up and down this season, last season. And just to get the job done, get a nice win under the belt, it's a great result I think. “Being a bit more mature, playing this game for a while, I know to just stay in it – even when things are not amazing.  “And don't attack all the time. Just try and hit the greens in regulation, and the putts will drop eventually, hopefully. And they did.” More than once Caffyn had to show resolve. He made a three-putt bogey on the opening hole, but bounced back by slotting a 15-footer for birdie on the second and then holed out from even further for another gain at the seventh. A pushed drive from the 10th tee resulted in a double bogey to open the door for others, including his playing partner Pudney. But once again Caffyn dug deep, making two more excellent birdies. His deft pitch from 80 yards at the par-5 12th allowed him to convert from five feet and his putter blew hot again on the 14th green where he sunk a twisting 12-foot putt. At the difficult par–4 16th Caffyn overcame tree trouble with a brilliant knock-down 7-iron from 160 yards to six feet from where he rescued par in gritty fashion. Caffyn admitted his heart was racing at the time, but he kept his composure sufficiently in the closing stages to clinch a deserved triumph. Top spot in the handicap competition went to Hugo Fisher-Briggs. Receiving 14 strokes, the 12-year-old Royal Norwich member recorded a fine net score of 68 – five-under-par. That left him a shot clear of Bawburgh golfer George Merritt. Norfolk Boys Championship  Scratch champion: Liam Caffyn (Dereham) 73 Handicap champion Hugo Fisher-Briggs (Royal Norwich) net 68 Scratch U18 winner Jake Gunby (Dereham, on countback) 75 Handicap U18 winner Jack Bennett (Royal Norwich) net 78 Scratch U16 winner Liam Caffyn (Dereham) 73 Handicap U16 winner Jack Johnson (Royal Norwich) net 75 Scratch U14 winner Maxie Hawes (Royal Norwich) 77 Photos (Rushmer PR) --- ## Norfolk power to Swaffham success **Published:** Monday, 3 August 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/norfolk-power-to-swaffham-success *Norfolk’s first team produced a sparkling performance to beat Northamptonshire at Swaffham Golf Club.* The hosts controlled the match from its early stages, eventually triumphing 8-4 to record their first victory of the Anglian League season. Ed Dimambro and Jonny Spinks set the tone for the day in the opening tie, surging to an early 6-up lead. The pair remained in charge and put the first point on the board as Norfolk came out on top from the morning foursomes session. Scott Wright and Quin Monaghan secured a slender 1-up success and experienced duo Ben Rawsthorne and George Morris also won to leave Norfolk 3-1 up at lunch. In the afternoon singles Dimambro led the victory push, posting a flurry of early birdies. The consistent Thetford golfer eventually overcame ex-Norfolk captain Chris White 2 and 1. Wright soon provided further good news as he surged to a 4 and 3 win. Next to collect a point was the unflappable Rawsthorne who prevailed on the 17th green after staving off his opponent’s comeback bid. It was left to Monaghan, the youngest player in the team, to clinch Norfolk’s outright victory, thanks to a battling half-point clawed back on Swaffham’s testing par-4 final hole. The 18-year-old was 1-down and staring defeat in the face when his second shot rolled deep into the trees flanking the left side of the fairway. But Monaghan duly produced an exquisite 45-yard chip that rolled out to within a foot of the hole, resulting in the concession of his par putt. When his opponent’s ensuing 10-foot attempt for a four stayed above ground, it meant a tight tussle ended up all square – and team Norfolk were over the line. Twenty minutes later on the same green, Spinks completed a battling 2-up win for his first singles success in Norfolk colours. And Morris added further gloss to the overall scoreline with a half-point in the last head-to-head out on the course. Norfolk’s joint team manager Carl Green said: “That was an excellent performance. A lot of hard work was done through last winter and during this season, so it’s nice for the players to get a reward for all their efforts. “We showed plenty of quality – and team spirit, which has been there throughout the season. Hopefully there’s a lot more to come from this group.” Norfolk’s five-match league campaign concludes on September 6 when they play Suffolk at Thetford Golf Club. *The county fielded a young 2nd team away in Northamptonshire and eventually went down 3.5-8.5. But Norfolk Under 16s enjoyed better fortunes in a tri-series match against their Suffolk and Bedfordshire counterparts. Norfolk’s future stars are closing in on qualification for a South East Group final after beating Suffolk 4.5-3.5 and Beds 5.5-2.5. Anglian League result Norfolk 1st team 8 Northamptonshire 4 (Played at Swaffham Golf Club)   Foursomes (Norfolk players named first) Ed Dimambro and Jonny Spinks won 4&3 v Jordan Darnell and Matt Evans Scott Wright and Quin Monaghan won 1-up v Tom Anderson and Alec Francis George Morris and Ben Rawsthorne won 2&1 v Owen Watts and Chris White Matt Strudwick and Sean Rafferty lost 1-down v Kai Raymond and Jamie Mulligan   Singles Dimambro won 2&1 v White Wright won 4&3 v Darnell Rawsthorne won 2&1 v Anderson Monaghan a/s v Watts Spinks won 2-up v Raymond Rafferty lost 8&7 v Francis Strudwick lost 2&1 v Evans Morris a/s v Mulligan Photos (Rushmer PR) --- ## Norfolk golf duo set to become friendly rivals **Published:** Wednesday, 29 July 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/norfolk-golf-duo-set-to-become-friendly-rivals *Norfolk County Golf Union pals Sully Goddard and Harry Thomas will both tee up in next week’s Home Internationals – on opposite sides.* Goddard is set to make his debut for England Boys and Thomas will appear in Wales’ colours. It is an incredible achievement by the pair, who have been pupils together at Culford School over the last academic year. The duo are now poised to become friendly rivals for a few days as their respective countries compete alongside Scotland and Ireland from August 4-6 at Monifieth Links, to the east of Dundee. Goddard, who is this week in action at the English Men’s Amateur Championship, can’t wait to play for his country. The Thetford Golf Club member, 17, said: “I am thrilled to have the chance to represent England Boys. It has been my ambition for a long time and I am really looking forward to the opportunity. “Next week we'll become rivals, but only for those few hours on the course. I'll always be cheering on Harry. He's become a really good friend over the last year and I know we will always support each other regardless." Eaton golfer Thomas will be playing in the Home Internationals for Wales Boys for the third consecutive year. And he is delighted that Goddard has earned the chance to line up in the England side. Thomas, 18, said: “I’ve seen all his hard work at Culford over the last year and it’s only what he deserves. I’m very, very pleased for him. “Maybe the stars will align and we’ll play each other, which would be very nice. But either way, I’m looking forward to seeing what he can do out there.” The two mates were in good form at Northamptonshire County Golf Club last week in the Carris Trophy – the English Boys’ Open Amateur Stroke Play Championship Reigning Norfolk Amateur champion Goddard followed up on his recent victory in the English Amateur Under 18s with a solid tied-13th finish in the 144-strong international field. Thomas built on an encouraging early-July display in Spain representing Wales in the European Team Championship by securing a share of 17th place in Northamptonshire. Next week the Norfolk County Golf Union community will have all eyes on Thomas and Goddard – as well as fellow county ace Ed Featherstone, who will be pulling on national team colours for the first time when he plays for the England men’s side (see separate story). NCGU president Stuart Goodman said: "It is fantastic that Ed and Sully are set to make their England debuts. For both of them, it's a wonderful achievement. "We're also thrilled that Harry Thomas has once again been called up for Wales Boys. "Everyone within Norfolk County Golf Union is extremely proud of Ed, Sully and Harry's feats and wish them the very best of luck at the Home Internationals." Goddard and Thomas will remain in Scotland to contest the R&A Boys’ Championship – one of the most prestigious junior tournaments in world golf. The event will take place at Gailes Links from August 10-15 and starts with two stroke play rounds before the leading 64 players continue in a match play knock out format. --- ## Featherstone ready for England debut **Published:** Wednesday, 29 July 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/featherstone-ready-for-england-debut *Norfolk golfer Ed Featherstone’s season of success has been recognised with an England call-up for the Home Internationals.* Through the early months of 2026 Featherstone enjoyed a series of strong results on the US collegiate golf circuit. On his return to home shores, the Sheringham Golf Club member fought through to the last eight of the Amateur Championship at Royal Liverpool. He followed that with a superb top-three display in Finland at the European Amateur Championship. Such strong form caught the eye of the national selectors and Featherstone is ready to make his England debut from August 4-6 in Ireland at Woodbrook Golf Club, County Wicklow. He will feature as part of a combined men and women’s team competing in a round robin event against Scotland, Wales and the host nation. Eaton golfer – and Curtis Cup player – Nellie Ong has been named in the England women’s team. Each match comprises morning foursomes and afternoon singles. As well as targeting a combined trophy, the men compete for the Raymond Trophy and the Miller International Shield is on offer for the leading women’s team. Featherstone, 20, said: “It’s been a childhood ambition. There’s a scale of things I wanted to achieve and England’s definitely one of them. “That’s a huge goal I’m glad to tick off – it just puts a smile on your face when you think about it. “When I got the call, it was awesome – a really cool feeling.” Featherstone is understandably happy with how his year is unfolding and believes his golf game is now more complete. The three-time Norfolk Amateur champion said: “Every aspect has improved. My putting is no longer a weakness, my driving and irons are still a real strength I can lean on and we’re working on the wedges and chipping to catch up. And it’s getting there. “Overall, extremely happy but there’s a lot more to come and there’s a lot I’ve left out there. So, equally excited for the years to come, for sure.” In mid-August Featherstone is scheduled to head back to America for his third year studying business management at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Photo (Rushmer PR) --- ## Title-seeking Norfolk Seniors triumph in Lincs **Published:** Tuesday, 28 July 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/title-seeking-norfolk-seniors-triumph-in-lincs *Norfolk remain on course for a final-day-of-the-season shot at the East Anglian Senior League title after a stunning success in Lincolnshire.* Two years after they suffered a crushing 1-14 loss in Lincolnshire, Norfolk Seniors returned to the county and triumphed 10.5 to 4.5 points at Sleaford Golf Club. The victory means non-playing captain Gary Brayshaw’s side remain undefeated this season ahead of their final league fixture at home to Cambridgeshire at Thetford Golf Club on August 20. Suffolk, who hold a slender lead at the top of the table, also have one game to play – hosting Lincolnshire at Stowmarket on August 17. That Norfolk remain firmly in the race to be crowned champions is down to their latest performance in Lincolnshire. The morning foursomes saw the visitors sweep into a 4-1 lead before Lincs hit back strongly, winning each of the first three singles ties. But Norfolk had all the moves covered, piling up the points across the other seven matches on the course. Iain Reid, Chris Lamb and Iain Yule all claimed their respective second victories of the day.  At the same time, John Shapland, Phil Scott and Jon Batten were busy closing out their own wins and Mark Butt followed up a foursomes success by claiming a half in his singles clash. Brayshaw said: “The whole team performed really well, to a high standard – it was a great win.  “It was quite tight until the end. We’d lost the first three afternoon singles, so all of a sudden the match was all square. But the middle order and the tail end delivered.  “It was an all-round top performance and a thoroughly deserved win.” East Anglian Senior League Lincolnshire 4.5 Norfolk 10.5 (match played at Sleaford Golf Club) Foursomes (Norfolk players named first) Blair Ainslie and John Shapland halved v Kevin Blow and Darren Fuller Iain Reid and Dean Futter won 1-up v Paul Wharton and Colin Trestrail Chris Lamb and Carl Green won 1-up v Richard Latham and Ken Spencer  Iain Yule and Mark Butt won 2&1 v Mike Cardy and Mark Cooke Jon Batten and Phil Scott halved v Kevin Dandy and Dillon Ross Singles Ainslie lost 2&1 v Wharton Green lost 4&3 v Blow Futter lost 6&4 v Fuller Reid won 5&3 v Spencer Lamb won 4&3 v Latham Shapland won 4&2 v Cardy Butt halved v Trestrail Yule won 4&2 v Cooke Scott won 2-up v Dandy Batten won 2&1 v Ross --- ## Hawes shines in strong showing from Norfolk Under-16s **Published:** Tuesday, 21 July 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/hawes-shines-in-strong-showing-from-norfolk-under-16s *Louis Hawes made the top three and Norfolk Under-16s finished runner-up in respective individual and team tournaments staged at Colne Valley Golf Club in Essex.* Royal Norwich golfer Hawes played with patience and skill in the Skevington Salver, comprising 32 boys from Norfolk, Suffolk, Bedfordshire and the host county. After the morning play staged over nine holes, Hawes signed for a two-over-par tally. During the 18-hole afternoon action, he battled hard to shoot 76. That left him at eight-over for the 27-hole tournament and tied for third place, five strokes back from the outright winner. Fellow Norfolk golfer Toby Lewin posted a very creditable top-five finish and Liam Caffyn took ninth place. Essex dominated the eight-man team tournament to win the Bob Bagshaw Trophy on a total of 673 – 24 shots clear of second-placed Norfolk. Royal Norwich golfer Anthony Coppola enjoyed a memorable moment when he eagled the 312-yard par-4 seventh hole. Coppola unleashed a mighty drive to find the front of the green and then stepped up to roll home a 30-foot-plus putt for his two. Norfolk Under-16s manager Greg Caffyn said: “We came to try and win the tournament, but finishing second to a very good Essex side is still a decent result. Especially so, when you consider the course offered a tough test and the fast greens, alongside some tricky pin positions, proved challenging. “Louis Hawes’ top-three finish in the individuals’ competition was a strong performance, while Toby Lewin and Liam Caffyn can be pleased with their top-10 efforts. “There were plenty of other positives and the experience will really help the development of two or three of the younger players.” Photos (credit Rushmer PR) --- ## Race to Bawburgh Update **Published:** Monday, 20 July 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/race-to-bawburgh-update *With 3 order of merit events remaining the race is on to qualify for the match play finals on 10th & 11th October* The top 13 plus the automatic qualifiers in both the Scratch and Handicap sections will qualify to play in the match play finals. In the Scratch section the automatic qualifiers are Harry Brister (Bawburgh Golf Club) as the 2025 winner, Sullivan Goddard (Thetford Golf Club) as the 2026 County Amateur Champion. The final spot will be taken by the County Boys' Champion to be held on 6th August. In the Handicap section the automatic qualifiers are Richard Abbs (Mundesley Golf Club) as the 2025 winner, Jack Johnson (Royal Norwich) as the 2026 County Handicap Champion. The final spot will be taken by the County Boys' Handicap Champion to be held on 6th August. For the latest points tables go to the Order of Merit section of the website. Entries for the remaining events are still open 9th August - Wensum Valley 16th August - Eaton 30th August - Middleton Hall --- ## Smart Ed’s bold show **Published:** Sunday, 12 July 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/smart-eds-bold-show Dimambro showed all his experience at the ‘6-Man’ England Golf tournament, staged in Essex. Norfolk propped up the table in the 11-county team event, but in the accompanying individuals competition Dimambro took 11th spot in a high-class field of 66. The Thetford golfer coped well with fast, firm conditions and a tricky wind to shoot level par for 36 holes. He opened up with a two-under-par 70 that included an eagle and three birdies. In sweltering second-round conditions, Dimambro admitted his energy supplies dipped but he never lacked for resilience. He dropped only two strokes and ground out 16 pars, thanks to a string of good choices and a cool head under clear-blue skies. Scott Wright fought tigerishly throughout the day, demonstrating an admirable pride in performance to close out on eight-over-par for the two rounds. One ‘impossible’ up-and-down to a short-side pin from the right of the ninth green had his playing partners purring in recognition. With similar application, Sean Rafferty fought back from a difficult morning and gave it everything he’d got through the second round. The Royal Norwich golfer can take plenty of encouragement from his closing holes in which he hit a series of piercing iron shots, combined with good touch on the greens. The day will also have served as an important learning curve for Jonny Spinks and Quin Monaghan, both having their first crack at the exacting stroke play tournament, which was won by current England squad member Max Hopkins’ seven-under-par tally. Norfolk team: Ed Dimambro (Thetford), Danny Loveday (Thetford), Quin Monaghan (Eaton), Sean Rafferty (Royal Norwich), Jonny Spinks (Swaffham), Scott Wright (Middleton Hall) --- ## Success for Norfolk junior teams **Published:** Monday, 6 July 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/success-for-norfolk-junior-teams *Norfolk’s Under 18 golfers have made it through to the South East Group Final on September 20 after a battling performance at Bungay & Waveney Golf Club.* Coach Ryan Pudney’s squad ended up in top spot at the end of a three-stage series of triangular matches against Bedfordshire and Suffolk. An eight-boy Norfolk side needed to beat their Bedfordshire counterparts on the final matchday to give themselves a chance of qualification for the September showdown at Donnington Grove in Berkshire. Jack Bennett set the tone in the first game producing an excellent ball-striking display to win on the 17th green. Soon there was another point on the board as Toby Lewin prepared for his appearance in this week’s Scottish Under 16s Open Championship with a fine 3&2 victory. In the middle order Louis Smith and debutant Jack Johnson also contributed with a win and half-point respectively. And it was Jake Hurren who delivered the telling triumph, securing a superb 1-up success after a hard-fought encounter. In the last game Theo Pudney epitomised Norfolk’s battling qualities as he rallied from 2-down to snatch a valuable half. That left Norfolk with an overall 5-3 winning score-line and meant they emerged victorious from the mini-league. On the same day, Norfolk lost out 5-3 to Suffolk, but Hurren and Johnson enjoyed thumping victories in their respective head-to-heads and Jake Gunby also posted a point. Ryan Pudney said: “All the lads that have played over the three matches have done superbly to come out on top. I’m very proud of them. “I’m excited for the final and what we may be able to achieve there.” In the triangular Under 18s finale Norfolk will face qualifiers from the home counties and the south. Another Norfolk boys’ squad to enjoy success last weekend was the Under 14s who took the silverware in the annual Triangular Shield, which was staged at Newton Green Golf Club in Suffolk. They beat the host county 10-6 on points and ended up halving 8-8 with Cambridgeshire. Norfolk Under-14s coach Lloyd Jones said: “The boys showed incredible patience and perseverance in difficult breezy and bouncy conditions. “They were calm, confident and performed well in the pressure of a closely-fought match.” Meanwhile Norfolk’s two men sides were in Anglian League action against Cambridgeshire. The 1sts played very strong opposition at Ely City Golf Club and were beaten 11-1 with George Morris recording a singles victory for the visitors. An inexperienced 2nds side were involved in a much closer match at Swaffham Golf Club and can take a lot of positives from their slender 5.5-6.5 loss.      Photos (care of Norfolk County Golf Union) --- ## Super Sully – it’s national glory for Goddard **Published:** Sunday, 28 June 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/super-sully-its-national-glory-for-goddard *Norfolk golfer Sully Goddard enjoyed a landmark triumph with a three-stroke success at the English Under 18 Amateur Championship.* After 72 holes at Sand Moor Golf Club in Yorkshire, he posted a six-under-par total and duly claimed his first national title. Goddard, 17, said: “I’m really pleased to win. It’s definitely the biggest achievement of my career, by a mile. It feels so good. “My confidence was already high, to the point where I feel like I’m going to get top-10. But now I’ve actually broken through and won, it definitely feels like I can do that again.” Goddard, who also recently won the Norfolk Amateur Championship, was in contention from the outset at the English Under 18 Amateur Championship. He piled up an astonishing eight birdies in the first round, firing a three-under-par 68 to lie just one stroke off the lead. Goddard remained a single shot off the pace at the half-way point after a rollercoaster 72. He endured a couple of difficult spells in his second round but again made a stack of birdies, including an incredible five in succession either side of the turn. The Culford School pupil made a telling move across round three, compiling a two-under score of 69 that saw him surge to the summit. He began the final 18 holes with a two-shot lead and never relinquished his grip on the tournament. Indeed, on the back nine Goddard unleashed another one of his trademark scoring sprees, chipping in at the 13th for the first of three straight birdies. Understandably, nerves bubbled under through the closing stages and there were anxious moments at the last hole as his tee shot flew left and clattered into a tree. But Goddard kept his cool, chipped his ball out of trouble and signed off from the England Golf tournament with a second successive round of 69. Goddard said: “It was stressful but it was good fun. My game is in a really good place at the minute – it definitely feels like I can hit some unreal golf shots. But also, I just need to tidy up the amount of bogeys and big numbers I’ve made.” His brilliant victory is sure to have caught the attention of the England selectors ahead of the boys' Home Internationals, which are set to take place in Scotland on August 4-6. In the next month Goddard has plenty on his plate, including the Carris Trophy – the English Boys’ Open Amateur Stroke Play Championship – at Northamptonshire County Golf Club.  He also has the English Men’s Amateur Championship at Beau Desert Golf Club in his busy schedule. But before that, Goddard is ready to make two important appearances in county colours. This Thursday he will play for the Norfolk boys team in a south-east qualifier in Sussex. And on Sunday Goddard will tee it up for the county first team, who are in Anglian League action in Cambridgeshire. Picture (supplied by Leaderboard Photography) – Sully Goddard celebrates his English Under 18 Amateur Championship victory --- ## In-form Featherstone on Open journey **Published:** Sunday, 28 June 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/in-form-featherstone-on-open-journey *Norfolk’s Ed Featherstone will seek to scale fresh heights in a season of success when he tees up on June 30 in Final Qualifying for The 154th Open Championship.* Five spots for Royal Birkdale will be up for grabs when the Sheringham golfer plays a 36-hole qualifier as part of a 72-strong field at Burnham & Berrow Golf Club in Somerset. In opposition will be stars such as six-time PGA Tour winner Marc Leishman and Sahith Theegala, who was tied-11th in the US Open earlier this month. But Featherstone, with his father Neil caddying for him, is excited by the opportunity to pit his skills against such a high-class line-up. Also, the three-time Norfolk Amateur champion goes into the event with the experience of having played in Final Qualifying a year ago at Burnham & Berrow. On that occasion he shot rounds of 71 and 73 to finish two-over-par in a share of 25th place. Featherstone, 20, said: “It’s awesome to be able to go back to the same place. I think the field is arguably stronger this year as well, so I know the challenges we’ll face. “But I think the most important thing I learned last year is getting off to a good start and making sure that you don’t leave yourself with too much to do. “Then, sort of cruise through rather than trying to force anything – because that course will bite you if you try and force it. “I think me and Dad are much more experienced with that now and we can manage ourselves better.” Norfolk’s premier amateur men’s golfer can certainly arrive at the links layout just south of Weston-super Mare in confident mood after a brilliant 12 months in which he has excelled on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. The University of Arkansas at Little Rock student, who recently completed the second year of a business management degree, played very impressively on the American collegiate golf circuit. He posted two runner-up spots among a string of strong finishes in a 2025-2026 campaign that saw him set performance records for the Little Rock Trojans. His fast-track progress is reflected in his World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) in which he has risen to 331st. Featherstone said: “America was pretty enjoyable. I never really felt super comfortable but managed the game a lot better than previous years and I worked really well with the coaches over there. “I think there’s been a lot of development in every aspect of my game. Rankings-wise, I think I was about 1900 on WAGR this time last year and I’m 330 now, so there’s been some good improvements on that.” Featherstone’s advance came into sharp focus during the British Amateur Championship, which took place at Royal Liverpool and West Lancashire earlier in June. An elite field of 288 teed it up for the two stroke-play rounds and scores of 69 and 67 left him at eight-under and tied for second place. With the leading 64 players qualifying for the match-play stages, Featherstone proceeded to enjoy a thrilling run to the quarter-finals. One match he’ll never forget is a last-32 win over Kris Kim. Featherstone fought back from 3-down with seven to play to beat his highly-rated 18-year-old opponent on the 20th green. He said: “I hit driver on both the play-off holes and that really changed the dynamic of the holes, I think. Making birdie on both of those was testament to the putter – I holed a 15-foot putt on the 19th and about a 20-foot putt on the 20th.” His fine week came to an end in the last-eight where he lost out to the eventual tournament winner Stuart Grehan. Featherstone was disappointed not to showcase his A-game in that match but the tournament created indelible memories for him, not least because his dad was on the bag. Featherstone said: “It’s fantastic, special – he sacrifices a lot to be able to do it. To bring it back against Kris and to have dad there when we holed the winning putt was really cool.” An early-morning alarm call beckons for the duo on June 30. Featherstone’s Open qualifying trail will get underway at 6.40a.m and his second round is scheduled for 12.10pm on the same day. Photo (Rushmer PR): 1 Norfolk golfer Ed Featherstone will have his dad Neil (left) caddying for him at Final Qualifying for The 154th Open Championship --- ## Johnson’s joy at County Handicap triumph **Published:** Monday, 22 June 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/johnsons-joy-at-county-handicap-triumph *Schoolboy Jack Johnson secured the biggest victory of his career with an impressive performance in the Norfolk Handicap Championship.* Johnson, 14, fired back-to-back net scores of 73 to finish at level par and win by a single stroke at Caldecott Hall Golf Club. Receiving five strokes per round, the Royal Norwich junior overcame a shaky start that saw him drop a shot on each of the opening four holes of the historic tournament. But Johnson demonstrated his resolve and ability with a fine first-round comeback that included a net birdie hat-trick from the 14th hole. That scoring spree helped the Norfolk Under-16s golfer into the halfway lead alongside Wensum Valley member Stuart Goddard. Johnson barely had time to finish his lunchtime jacket potato before he was back in action for round two. His wedge into the first green ran through the back but he had the answer, holing a 20-foot par putt. Johnson made a gross birdie at the following par-5 hole and kept his foot down for much of the round. And even when a shot or two did slip away late in the day, he had the belief to close out with the gutsiest of pars on the testing par-4 18th. Johnson’s pushed drive at the last found a mound flanking one side of the fairway. Swinging a 7-wood baseball style his approach finished in a tricky spot to the right of the green about 20 yards from the pin. Stood over his third shot, the Norwich School pupil understood the importance of the situation. He knew he had to get up and down to keep alive his chances of winning. The moment called for a grandstand finish – and Johnson provided it. He said: “I kind of flop shot-ed it quite high. It landed soft on a down-slope, shot off to around five or six feet and then I made that putt. “I did give it a little fist bump because I knew it was kind of a big putt. I came in and saw I was first and then it was a waiting game. “I said to my dad, ‘That putt will make the difference in the scoring”. Johnson’s assessment proved correct as those players behind him on the course were unable to catch him. Goddard finished runner-up with his one-over-par tally edging Dunston Hall golfer James Martin into third place. Johnson’s victory against his elders sets him up nicely ahead of a busy summer’s golf. He already lies second on the order of merit in the age 14-15 category of the  British Junior Golf Tour and will play a string of events on that circuit. Johnson will also line up on home soil at Royal Norwich in the Norfolk Boys Championship on August 6. Norfolk Handicap Championship winner Jack Johnson receives the Geoffrey Burroughs Salver from Norfolk County Golf Union president Stuart Goodman --- ## Norfolk’s golf teams on an upward curve **Published:** Monday, 8 June 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/norfolks-golf-teams-on-an-upward-curve *Norfolk first team produced a battling performance before losing out 4-8 to Lincolnshire in a keenly-fought Anglian League encounter at Royal Norwich Golf Club. The visitors took the morning foursomes [ ]* Norfolk first team produced a battling performance before losing out 4-8 to Lincolnshire in a keenly-fought Anglian League encounter at Royal Norwich Golf Club. The visitors took the morning foursomes 3-1 with Ed Dimambro and Tom Beasley the only Norfolk combination to put a point on the board before lunch. But in the afternoon singles the hosts showed never-say-die qualities, epitomised by Jonny Spinks in the first game out. The Swaffham golfer traded birdies with his opponent through the early exchanges and a classic match went all the way down to the final hole. Spinks trailed 1-down but unleashed a towering drive followed by a precision mid-iron to set up a birdie and clinch a deserved half-point. Dimambro also gave a rock-solid display, closing out victory on the 17th green. Josh Chamberlain came away with a half-point from a match that flagged up his fine early-season form. And George Morris underlined his class with a birdie at the last to secure a 1-up win. Three of the other four singles ties were close but a strong Lincolnshire side pulled through for an eventual four-point victory margin. Norfolk joint-manager Carl Green said: “We showed that we are moving in the right direction. There was a lot of good golf from our team – and the spirit throughout was excellent. “We’ll take plenty of  positives. In particular, Ed Dimambro won both of his matches, which was very pleasing and Jonny Spinks really played well to finish all square in his singles. “I also want to thank Royal Norwich for their hospitality – and for immaculate presentation of the course.” Norfolk second team, full of emerging talent, secured a superb 6.5-5.5 success against their counterparts at Boston Golf Club. Teenager Henry Saddleton was the star of the show as he won both of his matches. The 15-year-old, who earned his spot with a top-six finish in the previous week’s Norfolk Amateur Championship, teamed up with Callum Rana to secure a 2-up foursomes win. And Saddleton shone in the afternoon singles, surging to a 4&2 singles triumph. Fellow teenagers Luis King (two points) and Quin Monaghan (successful in his singles clash) also impressed. Matt Strudwick played a steady hand, collecting 1.5 points as Norfolk second team celebrated a brilliant away win. Norfolk County Golf Union vice-president Chris Lamb said: “A mix of youth and experience, fighting spirit and some great golf gave us a narrow but deserved victory over a classy Lincs team.” Norfolk’s Under-16s were also on-song at Rookery Park Golf Club where they powered to emphatic wins in their triangular league match against hosts Suffolk and Bedfordshire. They beat Bedfordshire 7-1 and Suffolk 6.5-1.5 to confirm the depth of emerging talent within the county. Anglian League result Norfolk 1st team 4 Lincolnshire 1st 8(Played at Royal Norwich Golf Club) Foursomes(Norfolk players named first) Scott Sealey and Sean Rafferty lost 4&2 to Sam Done and Jack Diment Josh Chamberlain and Jonny Spinks lost 3&1 to Adam Barnard and Callum Bruce Simon Clark and George Morris lost 4&2 to Aaron Kay and Scott Frisby Ed Dimambro and Tom Beasley won 4&2 v Simon Richardson and Matt Haynes Singles Spinks A/S v  Done Sealey lost 6&4 to Barnard Beasley lost 2-down v Frisby Rafferty lost 2&1 v Bruce Dimambro won 2&1 v Diment Chamberlain A/S v Haynes Morris won 1-up v Kay Clark lost 2&1 v Richardson Norfolk 2nd team 6.5 Lincolnshire 2nd team 5.5(Played at Boston Golf Club) Foursomes(Norfolk players named first) Darren Abbs and Harry Bradfield lost 2&1 to Dec Goodfellow and Dylan Welford Callum Rana and Henry Saddleton won 2-up v Dan Smith and Wilf Trestrail Matthew Strudwick and Luis King won 3&1 v James Hodgson and Josh Payne Quin Monaghan and Tom Mathers lost 5&4 to Harry Glenn and Leo Burton Singles Bradfield won 2&1 v Welford Abbs lost 6&5 to Goodfellow Mathers lost 2-down v Payne Monaghan won 3&2 v Smith King won 2&1 v Glenn Saddleton won 4&2 v Trestrail Strudwick A/S v Burton Rana lost 2&1 to Hodgson Well played partner…Tom Beasley (right) receives the congratulations of Ed Dimambro after their foursomes success against Lincolnshire at Royal Norwich Teenager Henry Saddleton won twice as he enjoyed a stunning debut for Norfolk second team --- ## Sully’s rise from Boys to man **Published:** Monday, 1 June 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/sullys-rise-from-boys-to-man *Teenager Sully Goddard claimed the Norfolk Amateur Championship crown with an exemplary display at Bawburgh Golf Club. The Thetford golfer signed for three sub-par scores to close out the 54-hole [ ]* Teenager Sully Goddard claimed the Norfolk Amateur Championship crown with an exemplary display at Bawburgh Golf Club. The Thetford golfer signed for three sub-par scores to close out the 54-hole event on 211 – seven shots clear of runner-up Danny Loveday. Goddard’s victory underlined his fast-track development after a 2025 season in which he claimed the Norfolk Boys title. The Culford School pupil’s latest success also highlighted the contrasting emotions that golf can bring. Last year Goddard held a one-shot lead going into the final round of the Norfolk Amateur Championship at Sheringham. But in blustery conditions, he endured a difficult day by the sea and ended up in second place behind Ed Featherstone. Fast forward 12 months and it was a different story for Goddard on a course where he was a member for several seasons. This time he led from start to finish and lifted the trophy with a winning smile. Goddard, 17, said: “I think I wanted it a lot since coming second last year, just missing out. I’ve been playing solid recently and coming into this I had quite a lot of confidence.” His inner belief shone through on the opening day as he fired rounds of 70 and 71 to establish a four-shot cushion from Quin Monaghan, Ed Dimambro and Harry Bradfield. As he stood on the first tee prior to the final round, Goddard later admitted there had been a few nerves inside – not that anyone could tell. He split the fairway with his opening tee-shot, found the green with his approach and safely two-putted for par. It was just the same at the next two holes by which point his nearest challengers had started to fall back. Playing partner Monaghan bogeyed the first and Dimambro – in the group ahead – lost his ball from the fourth tee. Goddard himself experienced a bit of tree trouble at the same hole. But he pulled out a superb recovery shot and his subsequent birdie putt stopped right on the edge of the cup. At the par-5 fifth, Goddard tightened his grip on the tournament with the poise of a champion. He unleashed a brilliant 7-iron from 190 yards that left him 15 foot from the flag. Sensing the moment, he stroked home the eagle putt with barely a flicker of expression on his face. The tournament might have been sealed in those moments of magic but it was won thanks to the unerring accuracy of his iron play and sure touch on the greens. Goddard’s composure and shrewd decision-making were also key factors as he came of age. Proof was provided at the 15th hole where his tee-shot flew into a fairway bunker. Instead of attempting a miracle shot, he chipped out to 100 yards and made par via a smooth swing with his 50-degree wedge followed by a cool 14-foot putt. From there Goddard knew all he had to do was keep his ball in play and the title was his. County team joint-managers Simon Clark and Carl Green were waiting by the 18th green to congratulate the incoming 2026 champion. Moments later, Goddard’s proud parents embraced their son. It had been a walk in the park for the lad, but it never quite feels like that for those outside the ropes. “I think I putted quite well,’ said Goddard, assessing what went right. “Not spectacularly, but just solid enough to keep me in it. “I holed a few crucial putts, especially in the first two rounds that just kept me going. And I made a couple of good pars as well in the third round.” Goddard can now look forward to a busy summer of golf, at home and abroad. This week he flies out to Berlin to have a crack at the German Boys Championship. There are a string of other high-profile events in the diary for Goddard who has shown his game is in strong shape. He said: “I think it’s just becoming a lot more consistent. I can kind of turn, where I don’t have my best stuff, into a solid round and I can also go quite low now.” Goddard featured in the Thetford trio that took the team trophy at Bawburgh. He, Loveday and Dimambro posted a combined tally of 435 to triumph by a whopping margin of 28 shots from the next best, Dereham. Norfolk County Golf Union president Stuart Goodman hands over the silverware to Norfolk Amateur champion Sully Goddard Sully Goddard produced a moment of magic at the par-5 fifth hole, conjuring up an eagle to surge further clear at the top Danny Loveday shot a Sunday best 69 to secure second place Ed Dimambro played his way into a fine top-three finish Sully Goddard is all smiles after landing the Norfolk Amateur Championship at Bawburgh NCGU president Stuart Goodman presents the shield to team trophy winners, Thetford – Sully Goddard, Danny Loveday and Ed Dimambro --- ## Norfolk Seniors rally to share spoils in Suffolk **Published:** Wednesday, 27 May 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/norfolk-seniors-rally-to-share-spoils-in-suffolk *King’s Lynn duo Iain Yule and Mark Butt led the way as Norfolk ended up honours even with Suffolk after a high-class East Anglian Senior League match at Bury St [ ]* King’s Lynn duo Iain Yule and Mark Butt led the way as Norfolk ended up honours even with Suffolk after a high-class East Anglian Senior League match at Bury St Edmunds Golf Club. The two teams fought out a thrilling encounter that saw the visitors rally to clinch a 7.5-7.5 tie. In the morning foursomes session, Yule and Butt gradually took control of their game thanks to some smart teamwork. Butt’s high-class pitch to within three feet rescued a half at the third hole before he rolled home a birdie putt at the fifth after Yule’s fizzing approach. Yule also hit another stunning shot at the seventh, curling a 4-iron from the trees to the front edge of the green. It proved a telling blow, and a hole later he and Butt finished the job to put Norfolk’s first point on the board. Phil Scott, making his league debut, and Simon Butts added another point after dovetailing well to ensure Norfolk only trailed 2-3 at lunchtime. The hosts retained the upper hand early on in the singles clashes, but Norfolk refused to wilt as temperatures topped 30 degrees Celsius. Iain Reid epitomised Norfolk grit as he fought back from 3-down after five holes. The Eaton golfer hung in there either side of the turn before a strong finish saw him surge to a 2-up success on the final green. Sheringham stalwart Mark Williamson also fell behind early but tapped into a red-hot streak that saw him post seven birdies on his way to 5&4 win. Swaffham member John Shapland demonstrated admirable resolve to secure a half after finding himself 2-down with four to play. Chris Lamb was another to finish all-square before Butt and Yule both safely negotiated the final hole to land respective wins that ensured Norfolk came away with a deserved share of the spoils. Norfolk’s non-playing captain Gary Brayshaw said: “I’m delighted with the team. We gave a very good performance against an in-form Suffolk side. “The boys showed a lot of spirit and determination, playing some excellent golf to retain our unbeaten record so far this season.” East Anglian Senior League Suffolk 7.5 Norfolk 7.5(match played at Bury St Edmunds Golf Club) Foursomes(Norfolk players named first) Chris Lamb and Carl Green lost 3&1 v Gavin Richards and Sean Dolton Simon Butts and Phil Scott won 1-up v Alan Henry and James O’Doherty Iain Yule and Mark Butt won 3&2 v Andy Grogan and Peter Brady Iain Reid and John Shapland lost 2-down v Stephen Duffety and Graham Sykes Jon Batten and Mark Williamson lost 1-down v Ivan Fryer and Chris Phillips Singles Batten lost 1-down v Richards Green lost 2&1 v Dolton Reid won 2-up v Brady Lamb A/S v Phillips Williamson won 5&4 v Fryer Shapland A/S v Duffety Yule won 1-up v Grogan Butt won 2-up v Sykes Scott lost 1-down v Henry Butts – O’Doherty – match halved Norfolk: Jon Batten (Sheringham), Mark Butt (King’s Lynn), Simon Butts (Hunstanton), Carl Green (Great Yarmouth & Caister), Chris Lamb (Royal Norwich) Iain Reid (Eaton), Phil Scott (Mundesley) John Shapland (Swaffham), Mark Williamson (Sheringham), Iain Yule (King’s Lynn). Mark Butt delivers a deft chip to Bury St Edmunds Golf Club’s third green on his way to a foursomes victory alongside Iain Yule. Iain Yule pulled off a string of a top shots to help Norfolk emerge honours even from their East Anglian Senior League match at Suffolk. Mark Williamson produced a brilliant birdie burst on his way to 5&4 singles success at Bury St Edmunds. --- ## Salvers success for Middleton Hall partnership **Published:** Monday, 25 May 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/salvers-success-for-middleton-hall-partnership *Middleton Hall owner Dave Freeman teamed up with his west Norfolk club’s PGA professional Adam Lewarne to win the Coronation Salvers in impressive fashion. Freeman and Lewarne received 12 strokes [ ]* Middleton Hall owner Dave Freeman teamed up with his west Norfolk club’s PGA professional Adam Lewarne to win the Coronation Salvers in impressive fashion. Freeman and Lewarne received 12 strokes for the historic Stableford tournament, which was staged this year at a sunbaked Ryston Park. After a steady start the pair began to pile up the points. The highlight of the  dovetailing duo’s round  came at the 519-yard par-5 14th where they recorded a gross birdie. In the immediate aftermath of their victory, 25-handicapper Freeman was self-deprecating as he praised his playing partner Lewarne. Freeman said: “I was mentored by this gentleman, and he played wonderfully today. I just needed to hack it around because he did all the good work. “It’s the first 18 holes I’ve played in a little while – I don’t play a lot. It’s all credit to this guy.” Freeman was equally complimentary about nine-hole Ryston Park, which opened a second set of tees in early April. He said: “It’s easier to play on a golf course that’s lovely like this. I pass it every day and I didn’t realise it is such a nice golf course. It is really, really smart. The tee boxes are nice, the greens are pure.” Legends Tour professional Andrew Marshall and fellow Dereham member Maisie Farrelly finished runners-up in a competition that was first staged in 1953. Jon Lewis and Jonathan Clements took third place on their home course, which was in immaculate condition and well received by the field comprised of 29 pairings. Coronation Salvers 2026 – Final Results Coronation Salvers champions Dave Freeman (left) and playing partner Adam Lewarne flank Norfolk County Golf Union president Stuart Goodman Adam Lewarne chips onto the ninth green, watched by playing partner Dave Freeman Maisy Farrelly takes advice on the line of a putt from Legends Tour star Andrew Marshall --- ## Norfolk serve up Sunday best **Published:** Tuesday, 19 May 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/norfolk-serve-up-sunday-best *Norfolk’s golfers delivered a superb second-day surge to secure fourth spot in the nine-team Eastern Counties Foursomes at Seacroft Golf Club. Norfolk began the tournament positively as they gleaned six [ ]* Norfolk’s golfers delivered a superb second-day surge to secure fourth spot in the nine-team Eastern Counties Foursomes at Seacroft Golf Club. Norfolk began the tournament positively as they gleaned six points from an available ten in their opening-session matches with Cambridgeshire and hosts Lincolnshire. Suffolk and eventual winners Leicestershire & Rutland provided stiffer competition in the afternoon to leave Norfolk tied-sixth at the halfway stage. But joint-managers Simon Clark and Carl Green made a couple of tweaks overnight and their side came flying out of the gates on the Sunday morning. In a stunning session of golf Norfolk’s five pairings went unbeaten, collecting a bumper haul of nine points from matches against Northamptonshire and Beds, Bucks & Oxon. The stars of the show were Scott Sealey and Sean Rafferty who were chosen by Green and Clark to lead out the team. Sealey and Rafferty powered to two convincing victories to add to their first-day haul of three points. Immediately behind them – and in the same emphatic form – were Josh Chamberlin and Jonny Spinks. Chamberlin arrowed a succession of drives down the middle and Spinks underlined his irons prowess with a series of piercing shots as the duo won both of their matches. Clark and playing partner George Morris showed class and grit in two hard-fought encounters. And Clark’s gutsy seven-foot par putt on the final green locked down a further 1.5 points for the resurgent Norfolk team. Green’s putter served up similar magic at the last hole as he and Warwick Calasse won one game and finished all-square in their other. It was left to Sully Goddard and Danny Loveday to complete Norfolk’s dream morning, as they battled their way to two narrow wins. At lunch Green and Clark’s men sat in a share of fourth immediately behind Bedfordshire, who they opposed – along with Warwickshire – in the final set of matches. Norfolk started slowly and trailed almost across the board in the opening exchanges. But gradually they edged their way back, highlighting their team spirit as well as talent. Sealey and Rafferty earned a win and a half. Sealey’s brilliant shot into the 12th was inches away from a hole-in-one – and he and Rafferty closed out as Norfolk’s leading duo with 6.5 points, unbeaten in any of their eight games. Chamberlin and Spinks picked up a couple of fine triumphs to post 5.5 points, a total matched by ever-reliable Clark and Morris. Calasse came up with a masterstroke at the last, firing a 7-iron approach from the rough to 15 feet to help set up a half against Warwickshire. That left Norfolk with an overall tally of 22.5pts, just four back from victors Leicestershire & Rutland. Clark said: “This is our best points haul for many a year. We had a great day on the Sunday – 14.5 points. Nine in the morning was absolutely brilliant. “Saturday morning was decent as well. We just had one indifferent session, which put us behind the 8-ball a little bit. But the guys gave their all over the weekend and Carl and I can’t ask for any more than that.” None of the other eight counties bettered Norfolk’s 14.5 points from Sunday’s play. Green added: “We’re a work in progress. But we’re delighted with the performance and it shows what quality we have in the team.” Norfolk Squad:Simon Clark (Great Yarmouth Carl Green (Great Yarmouth Warwick Calasse (Sprowston Manor); Josh Chamberlin (Thetford); Sully Goddard (Thetford); Danny Loveday (Thetford); George Morris (Dereham); Peter Murphy (Mundesley); Sean Rafferty (Royal Norwich); Scott Sealey (Dunston Hall); Jonny Spinks (Swaffham). Link to all results:Eastern Inter Counties Foursomes, Seacroft 2026 "Well played partner" – George Morris (right) congratulates Simon Clark after a vital putt Deadly duo – Scott Sealey (left) and Sean Rafferty went unbeaten, claiming 6.5 points Josh Chamberlin (left) and Jonny Spinks won all four of their second-day matches Team Norfolk --- ## Superb new tees program future-proofs west Norfolk gem **Published:** Tuesday, 12 May 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/superb-new-tees-program-future-proofs-west-norfolk-gem *Ryston Park Golf Club is offering a fresh challenge in 2026 after the completion of anexciting initiative at the nine-hole course. Last month the west Norfolk club opened eight new [ ]* Ryston Park Golf Club is offering a fresh challenge in 2026 after the completion of an exciting initiative at the nine-hole course. Last month the west Norfolk club opened eight new tees, and the extensive changes have been met with widespread approval from its members. with the ninth hole having been adapted previously, the recent development program – costing around £45,000 – has ensured there are now 18 different teeing grounds. Modifications have resulted in the course slightly extending in length and becoming a par-71. Ryston Park Golf Club captain Stuart Murphy said: “When we first came up with the idea of building the new tees, a few members were a bit sceptical about whether the club needed to add them for fear of ‘ruining the course’. “But now they are in play there has been nothing but praise for them. They have been enthusiastically welcomed by all members. It’s testament to our small greenkeepers’ team and all the volunteers who helped build, refine, and get the new tees ready for play. “It’s a true honour to be the captain to take the club into a new era for the course.” Perhaps the most noticeable difference is at the 2nd. On the opening loop the hole plays as a 437-yard par-4 but it becomes a 484-yard par-5 the second time golfers reach it. The nature of the eighth hole has altered with players needing firepower to get to the corner of the dog-leg par-4. Significant angle changes make the third and 10th holes entirely different propositions. Similarly, a slight tweak at the par-3 13th means the hole sets up nicely on the eye from the new tee. Club secretary Andy Ware and greenkeeper Tiff Mills have been at the heart of the changes to a design that first opened for play back in 1933. Ware explained: “The reason for alterations to the course was to safeguard the long- term future of the club, making it more challenging and attractive to new and existing members.” In the early months of 2025 dozens of poplars were removed and more than 300 tons of soil excavated for use in the project. A further 260 tons of top soil was acquired from British Sugar. Hall Construction then carried out the work required to build the tees. From last summer Mills has spent significant time seeding the tees and strengthening the young grass in preparation for the 2026 season. She said: “With help from Collier Turf Care we created a program that would quickly see the tees establish. However, little did we know we would have such a dry summer, so seeding was challenging with constant watering needed.” Mills, who is the current Norfolk Ladies county captain, has enjoyed getting her teeth into the project. She added: “It’s exciting to have the opportunity to create parts of the golf course we used to leave wild or at rough height.” Golfers from the rest of the Norfolk will get the chance to see the all-new Ryston Park for themselves when the Coronation Salvers – an historic Norfolk County Golf Union foursomes stableford competition – takes place at the course on Sunday, May 24. Ryston Park secretary Andy Ware (left), greenkeeper TiffMills and club captain Stuart Murphy are pleased with lay-out changes at the west Norfolkcourse. --- ## Norfolk beaten by English champions **Published:** Tuesday, 12 May 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/norfolk-beaten-by-english-champions *Norfolk’s league season began with a spirited display against the reigning English county golf champions, Leicestershire Rutland. Norfolk lost out 3.5-8.5 at Cosby Golf Club but joint-managers Simon Clark [ ]* Norfolk’s league season began with a spirited display against the reigning English county golf champions, Leicestershire & Rutland. Norfolk lost out 3.5-8.5 at Cosby Golf Club but joint-managers Simon Clark and Carl Green took plenty of positives from their team’s performance. Sully Goddard and Tom Beasley starred in the morning foursomes, claiming a fine 1-up on the final green. In the game behind them, Clark and Green also dovetailed well before suffering a slender defeat. The hosts led 3-1 at lunch, but Norfolk staged a strong response in the opening singles ties. Debutant Danny Loveday and talented young gun Sean Rafferty stormed to convincing wins. Meanwhile, Beasley built on his foursomes success to collect a half-point from his head-to-head. But Leicestershire and Rutland proved dominant in the bottom half of the singles games and eventually powered to outright victory. Green said: “They’re the English champions, so it was a baptism of fire but we’ve got to take these challenges on and there were a lot of strong performances out there. In a lot of the games, the result just went the wrong way on the last couple of holes. “We’ll reflect on everything, take positives but also look at what we can strengthen – the areas where we just need to bring the levels upwards a little. It’s looking at where we can save that one shot or two and turn narrow defeats into victories.” It was a similar story for Norfolk 2nds against their Leicestershire and Rutland counterparts at Bawburgh Golf Club. A side blending experience with promising juniors trailed narrowly 1.5-2.5 at lunch and ultimately went down 4.5-7.5. But the top-line score does not tell the whole tale. Two singles clashes were lost on the 18th green and a morning foursomes tie ended up all-square when it could quite easily have gone Norfolk’s way. Norfolk County Golf Union vice-president Chris Lamb said: “It was a shame we just lost the really tight games in the afternoon. But overall it was a really good effort from the lads.” Josh Chamberlin won both of his matches and George Morris picked up a singles victory to go alongside a half-point gained in the morning foursomes. There was also a landmark success for teenager Jake Gunby. The 16-year-old claimed his first singles win for a Norfolk men’s team. Norfolk are in action again this coming weekend (May 16-17) when they contest the Eastern Counties Foursomes at Seacroft Golf in Lincolnshire. Anglian League result Norfolk 1st team 3.5 Leicestershire & Rutland 8.5(Played at Cosby Golf Club) Foursomes(Norfolk players named first) Sully Goddard and Tom Beasley won 1-up v Richard Wale and Thomas Roberts Simon Clark and Carl Green lost 1-down v Will Plant and Liam Plant Danny Loveday and Jonny Spinks lost 2&1 to Ethan Bell and James Gamble Callum Rana and Sean Rafferty lost 2&1 to Luke Burrows and John Fairbrother Singles Goddard lost 3&2 to W Plant Loveday won 3&2 v Burrows Beasley A/S v Roberts Rafferty won 4/2 v L Plant Clark lost 1-down v Bell Green lost 3&2 to Fairbrother Spinks lost 3&2 to Gamble Rana lost 5&4 to Wale Norfolk 2nd team 4.5 Leicestershire & Rutland 7.5(Played at Bawburgh Golf Club) Foursomes(Norfolk players named first) George Morris and Liam Caffyn A/S v Ben Ridgeway and Ross Murgatroyd Theo Pudney and James Tipling lost 2-down v Josh Hayes and Ryan Genner Warwick Calasse and Jake Gunby lost 2&1 v Spencer Sheffield and Jay Sheridan Josh Chamberlin and Harry Bradfield won 1-up v Toby Osborne and Sam Orton Singles Morris won 4/2 v Ridgeway Tipling lost 1-down v Murgatroyd Pudney lost 3&2 to Hayes Caffyn lost 4/3 v Genner Gunby won 2/1 v Sheridan Calsse lost 1-down to Osborne Chamberlin won 5&4 v Orton Bradfield lost 4&3 v Sheffield Norfolk 1st team Norfolk 2nds team --- ## Flying start for Norfolk Seniors **Published:** Saturday, 9 May 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/flying-start-for-norfolk-seniors *Norfolk Seniors began their East Anglian Senior League campaign with a thrilling victory over Northamptonshire at Sheringham Golf Club. Norfolk triumphed 8.5-6.5 after a see-saw encounter, which only swayed the [ ]* Norfolk Seniors began their East Anglian Senior League campaign with a thrilling victory over Northamptonshire at Sheringham Golf Club. Norfolk triumphed 8.5-6.5 after a see-saw encounter, which only swayed the hosts’ way late in the day. Iain Reid and Paul Hendrick posted the first point for Norfolk when they clinched a 4/2 win in the morning foursomes. Sheringham pair Jon Batten and Neal Milton also recorded a comfortable victory. But Northamptonshire enjoyed their fair share of success and the two sides lunched honours even at 2.5-2.5. In the afternoon singles Carl Green marked his county senior debut with a superb 7&6 win. But many of the head-to-heads proved hard-fought and it required gritty displays from several Norfolk golfers to ensure the home side prevailed. Paul Hendrick was 1-down with five to play before emerging with a 2&1 triumph. Simon Butts turned his match on the final hole to finish 1-up. And the 18th was also the scene for further drama as Batten battled to claim a vital half-point. King’s Lynn men Mark Butts and Iain Yule collected a point-and-a-half between them but it was left to Simon Tilbrook to take Norfolk over the winning line. Tilbrook surged to a 4&3 success to put a smile on the face of Norfolk’s non-playing captain Gary Brayshaw. Brayshaw said: “It’s great to start the season with a win. It was a real team effort as everyone contributed to our overall tally. “The match could have gone either way in the afternoon, but we showed real determination to make sure we came out on top. Many thanks to Sheringham for their excellent hospitality.” Norfolk Seniors second league clash is against Suffolk at Bury St Edmunds Golf Club on May 26th. Norfolk: Jon Batten (Sheringham), Mark Butt (King’s Lynn), Simon Butts (Hunstanton), Carl Green (Great Yarmouth & Caister) Paul Hendrick (Sheringham), Neal Milton (Sheringham), Iain Reid (Eaton), John Shapland (Swaffham), Simon Tilbrook (Royal Norwich), Iain Yule (King’s Lynn). Foursomes(Norfolk players named first) Iain Reid and Paul Hendrick won 4/2 v Andrew Bilson and Andrew Gastell Simon Butts and Carl Green lost 1-down v Dominic Ralfs and Tony Lord Iain Yule and Mark Butt lost 2/1 v Alan Freeman and Dominic Jessop John Shapland and Simon Tilbrook A/S v Greg Thomas and John Thorpe Jon Batten and Neal Milton won 4/3 v Mick Barnett and Ian Donald Singles Reid lost 2-down v Gastell Hendrick won 2/1 v Ralfs Green won 7/6 v Freeman Butts won 1-up v Bilson Batten A/S v Lord Butt 5&4 v Thomas Yule A/S v v Jessop Shapland lost 3/2 v Thorpe Tilbrook won 4/3 v Barnett Milton lost 5/4 v Donald The victorious Norfolk Seniors side and captain Gary Brayshaw (fourth from left) at Sheringham Golf Club --- ## Spinks set for Anglian League bow **Published:** Monday, 4 May 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/spinks-set-for-anglian-league-bow *Downham Market’s Jonny Spinks will make his Norfolk first-team debut this weekend after a “16 or 17-year” absence from county colours. Spinks, 33, was a very promising junior and his [ ]* Downham Market’s Jonny Spinks will make his Norfolk first-team debut this weekend after a “16 or 17-year” absence from county colours. Spinks, 33, was a very promising junior and his name appears on the Norfolk Boys trophy. But work priorities – he is a car salesperson in King’s Lynn – meant golf took a back seat for around a decade. His hunger for the sport returned around six years ago, leading to success at Ryston Park Golf Club where last summer he defended his club championship crown. In 2025 Spinks also posted a course-record 65 at Ryston and backed it up with another score in the mid-60s at Swaffham. Such feats and a handicap index of plus-1.2 drew the attention of Norfolk County Golf Union coach Nic Cains. Invited to attend winter training, Spinks – now a Swaffham member – has sufficiently impressed county team joint-managers Simon Clark and Carl Green to earn up a call-up for Norfolk’s Anglian League curtain-raiser. He has been named in the eight-strong side to face Leicestershire and Rutland at Cosby Golf Club. And Spinks has also been selected for the following weekend’s Eastern Counties Foursomes two-dayer at Seacroft in Lincolnshire. Spinks said: “I was over the moon to see my name on the list for the first team. “I didn’t expect it at all, really, because of the calibre of players that are in there. But I’m very, very thankful and just looking forward to seeing how I can fare up against some of these sides.” Spinks has thrived during the Norfolk elite squad’s in-depth winter program. Targeted sessions to refine short game and putting have been organised, alongside support from specialists including a sports psychologist. Spinks said: “I can’t see how all the work that the county put in over the winter won’t have made a positive difference to my game, everyone’s game – because it’s all been about development. “I didn’t know what to expect coming into it, but it’s been brilliant.” Spinks has already started to reap the benefits and points to the wedge-game work he has done with Cains. He said: “My ball position was about three inches too far forward in my stance without me knowing. “Nic was able to change things quite dramatically just by looking at me and saying ‘let’s put it back a bit.’ “And the ball strike, flight, distance, everything was way better. So that’s been a massive help in my short game.” Norfolk are set for a stiff test in their opener as Leicestershire and Rutland are the defending Anglian League champions. But Spinks said: “I like a bit of a challenge and a bit of pressure. I don’t mind it. “I tend to look at it as an enjoyable environment, something I can sink my teeth into. “If you come away from it and don’t get the result you want, as long as you feel like you’ve put everything into it and you’ve had a good game of golf, what more can you ask?” Jonny Spinks will make his Norfolk first-team debut in their Anglian League opener against Leicestershire and Rutland Jonny Spinks has thrived during Norfolk’s extensive pre-season preparations --- ## Locke combination secure County Foursomes crown **Published:** Monday, 27 April 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/locke-combination-secure-county-foursomes-crown *Simon and Hayden Locke proved the perfect double act as they stormed to victory at Sprowston Manor in the two-day Norfolk County Foursomes Championship. The father and son duo dominated [ ]* Simon and Hayden Locke proved the perfect double act as they stormed to victory at Sprowston Manor in the two-day Norfolk County Foursomes Championship. The father and son duo dominated the tournament final, beating Scott Sealey and Liam Caffyn 5 and 3. The Locke combination also finished top of the leaderboard after the opening day’s 36-hole Stableford competition. They claimed 75 points to head up the eight pairs who qualified for the second day’s match play action, which took place across two tiers. Simon and Hayden won through 4&3 in their semi-final against Phil Brown and Warren Blackwell. In the other last-four clash, Sealey and Caffyn edged a 1-up win over James Hazel and Seb Sadler. The Lockes remained in flying form in the title match, taking control at the par-5 second hole.  Simon sent a superb 227-yard 3-wood into the heart of the green to set up a birdie to open up a lead the Lockes would never relinquish. Simon’s brisk style and stunning drives were matched by teenager Hayden’s excellent approach irons. Both of them showed exemplary composure alongside shrewd decision-making. The Eaton Golf Club pair, in receipt of seven strokes, moved 3-up by the sixth hole and kept their foot down across the back nine. At the 475-yard par-4 11th hole, Simon hit a booming tee-shot and also a deft pitch. Hayden, 16, stepped forward to convert the par putt from 10 feet to leave the Lockes 4-up and in the clear. Norfolk county team pairing Sealey and Caffyn tried hard to make a fight of it, but could not match the consistency of their opponents. And the final came to its conclusion on the 15th green, prompting emotional victory scenes for the Lockes. Simon, 42, pointed to the enjoyment of simply playing alongside one another as a key factor to his and Hayden’s success. He said: “It’s really the friendship we have as father and son. There’s no stress, just let him get on with it – he was solid. It’s a dream come true. “I put my clubs away for 14 years and started again about three years ago. I wouldn’t even expect to be playing in something like this, let alone winning it.” Locke has clearly passed on his golf passion and talent to Hayden, who shone in a series of key moments. Hayden said: “I really enjoyed playing with dad. We worked together, helped each other when needed. Perfect teamwork.” The four pairs that filled fifth to eighth spot in the Stableford play vied for the second-tier title, claimed by another father-and-son team, Karl and Harry Diggens. The Diggens triumphed 2 and 1 after a hard-fought encounter with fellow Sprowston Manor golfers Dan Palmer and Tim Hales. Day one also offered a scratch prize, which was claimed by Sealey and Caffyn who posted a fine tally of 70 points. Simon Locke (left) and son Hayden (right) claim the silverware in the Norfolk County Foursomes Championship at Sprowston Manor Karl Diggens and son Harry (right) triumphed in the second-flight final at Sprowston Manor --- ## Norfolk golf management duo outline new-season plans **Published:** Wednesday, 22 April 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/norfolk-golf-management-duo-outline-new-season-plans *Norfolk’s two men’s teams are all set for the start of the 2026 Anglian League season after an extensive preparation programme under new joint-managers Simon Clark and Carl Green. The [ ]* Norfolk’s two men’s teams are all set for the start of the 2026 Anglian League season after an extensive preparation programme under new joint-managers Simon Clark and Carl Green. The Great Yarmouth and Caister Golf Club duo have worked tirelessly throughout the winter months engaging with players and hosting a series of specialist training sessions. There have also been on-course practice days ahead of recent warm-up matches against a Norfolk professionals’ side and the county seniors’ team. Clark, who has served two stints as county captain, said: “Preparations have gone well. We came into the role at the end of October and have had buy-in from new faces, juniors and some old faces returning. It’s great we’ve had that. “This is year one of a longer-term plan. Going forward, Norfolk golf is in a good position. We’ve got a lot of talent – and a lot of young talent coming through – which is very pleasing.” Green, who also has longstanding connections with golf in the county, outlined how he and Clark are happy with the current players available for selection – but that it’s a work in progress. Green said: “It’s a good squad. We’re always looking to improve. That’s why we’ve got a development system in place, working with our coach Nic Cains. “We’re also in communication with our players abroad – at college in America and things like that. They’ll be back at some point within the season. “The teams will be selected on a game-by-game basis. We’re going to take a whole bunch of things into account when it comes to picking each individual side. “We’re looking to have a big and strong squad. We’ll need that if we are to do well and compete in the games we’ve got.” Teams have been selected for May 10’s opening league matches against Leicestershire & Rutland. The firsts are away at Cosby Golf Club and the seconds will host at Bawburgh Golf Club. The selection committee has also named an 11-man travelling squad for May 16-17’s Eastern Counties Foursomes at Seacroft. Clark and Green will both be in action with the proven pair intending to continue fine playing careers alongside their new management duties. But Green added: “There will be nobody happier than Simon and myself if there’s success in the team and we’re there watching that with younger players coming through.” Anglian League: Norfolk 1st team v Leicestershire & Rutland: Tom Beasley, Simon Clark, Sully Goddard, Carl Green, Danny Loveday, Sean Rafferty, Callum Rana, Johnny Spinks Anglian League:Norfolk 2nd team v Leicestershire & Rutland: Liam Caffyn, Warwick Calasse, Josh Chamberlain, Jake Gunby, George Morris, Theo Pudney, Tom Rutherford, James Tipling Eastern Counties Foursomes:Norfolk: Warwick Calasse, Simon Clark, Sully Goddard, Carl Green, Danny Loveday, George Morris, Pete Murphy, Sean Rafferty, Scott Sealey, Johnny Spinks, Harry Thomas NCGU joint-manager Simon Clark NCGU joint-manager Carl Green --- ## US glory for Norfolk golfer **Published:** Sunday, 19 April 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/us-glory-for-norfolk-golfer *Sheringham golfer Paul Innocent added a fresh chapter to his remarkable story with victory in the ISPS Handa U.S Blind Open in Georgia. Less than three years ago Innocent was [ ]* Sheringham golfer Paul Innocent added a fresh chapter to his remarkable story with victory in the ISPS Handa U.S Blind Open in Georgia. Less than three years ago Innocent was diagnosed with Leber’s Heriditary Optic Neuropathy, an incurable disease that has left him blind in his right eye and with only 30 per cent vision in his left. The 43-year-old Stiffkey resident responded to adversity by pursuing his decades-long golf passion and last summer in Scotland triumphed in the B2 category of the ISPS British Blind Open. Now he has scaled fresh heights by landing the spoils for the lowest gross score at the United Blind States Blind Golf Association’s flagship event. After two days’ competition alongside guide, caddie and coach Rob Linge, Innocent emerged victorious by a single stroke at Green Island Country Club in Columbus. He also finished top of the pile in the B2 category, seven shots clear. Speaking on his return to north Norfolk, Innocent said: “What an experience. I don’t think it’s settled in – it’s just a bit surreal at the minute. “Sitting with my wife Kelly eighteen months ago, she found England and Wales Blind Golf. I said to her, ‘Can you imagine if I get to play in the British Open? And what even if we get to go and play in the US Open?’ “Eighteen months down the line, I’ve played in both and won them both, it’s incredible. “Golf was going to be my teddy bear to cling to and get out and be able to express myself, still do something I love. I never thought it’d take off like this.” With Innocent for every step of the way in America was fellow Sheringham golfer Linge, who himself has lost an arm. Innocent, who played from a 15.9 handicap in Georgia, said: “Rob loved it. He thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I couldn’t have done it without him and I truly mean that – it was a team effort. “I didn’t get nervous one bit – that helped. Even in club competitions you get first-tee jitters but I smashed a 3-wood 273 yards straight up the middle of the fairway on the first hole.” That set the tone for a brilliant opening round after which Innocent signed for a 79. Windier conditions and temperatures soaring into the mid-30s Celsius provided a stiffer test on the second day as he shot an 88. The Norfolk-based golfer assessed: “I’d have taken two 88s, going out there. But I had a great round on day one.” Innocent has been inundated with congratulatory messages but is already targeting more success. In the first week in May he heads to Andalusia to compete in the Spanish Blind Golf Open at Isla Canela. Sheringham golfer Paul Innocent (right) alongside his caddie and guide Rob Linge after their ‘team effort’ led to ISPS US Blind Golf Open glory --- ## Countback setback for Norfolk Boys **Published:** Saturday, 11 April 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/countback-setback-for-norfolk-boys *Norfolk Boys golf team suffered a painful outcome at the BUT Trophy as they lost out on countback to Bedfordshire. Norfolk played some superb golf in the morning foursomes to [ ]* Norfolk Boys golf team suffered a painful outcome at the BUT Trophy as they lost out on countback to Bedfordshire. Norfolk played some superb golf in the morning foursomes to establish a lunchtime lead in the annual tri-county tournament, staged this year at The Millbrook Golf Club in Bedfordshire. Prior to the singles, they led Leicestershire and Rutland by 1.5 points and the host county by three points. Norfolk also set off on the front foot in the majority of the afternoon matches. Toby Lewin starred as he won both of his games to add to a two-point tally claimed alongside Jake Hurren in the foursomes. Louie Raine tapped into a hot streak to record four birdies as he saw off his two opponents and Jake Gunby triumphed on the 18th green against Leicestershire after earlier winning his head-to-head with a Bedfordshire golfer. But the tide began to turn in other encounters and eventually everything came down to the final match on the course featuring Norfolk’s Luis King. He stood all square on the last tee where his Bedfordshire rival unleashed a booming drive to grab the ascendancy. King’s second to the green came up short and he ended up losing the match 1-down, which left Norfolk and Bedfordshire locked on 14.5 points, comfortably clear of third-placed Leicestershire and Rutland. But Bedfordshire took the BUT Trophy on countback by virtue of beating Norfolk 5-3 in the singles ties contested between the two counties. Norfolk County Golf Union development officer Sammy Martin said: “We play to win, so it’s extremely disappointing to lose out as a result of countback. “But as a start to the season, we can take away a series of positives. Every player secured at least one win and Toby Lewin must be commended for posting a very impressive four points from four matches. “We know there are areas to improve – and we will.” Norfolk Boys team: Theo Pudney (Sheringham), Jack Bennett (Royal Norwich), Louie Raine (Royal Norwich), Jake Hurren (Bawburgh), Jake Gunby (Dereham), Toby Lewin (Bawburgh), Luke Gilding (Royal Norwich), Luis King (Eaton). Norfolk Boys team and Norfolk County Golf Union development officer Sammy Martin at the 2026 BUT Trophy Bawburgh golfer Toby Lewin starred with a 100 per cent record from his four matches Louie Raine’s birdie burst helped secure two points in the afternoon Jack Bennett battled to win his singles tie against Leicestershire and Rutland --- ## King’s Lynn golfer wins Norfolk Schools Boys Championship **Published:** Sunday, 5 April 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/kings-lynn-golfer-wins-norfolk-schools-boys-championship *King Edward VII Academy pupil Albie Patterson landed the best victory of his career to date with a gritty success in the Norfolk Schools Boys Championship at Eaton Golf Club. [ ]* King Edward VII Academy pupil Albie Patterson landed the best victory of his career to date with a gritty success in the Norfolk Schools Boys Championship at Eaton Golf Club. Patterson, 15, shot a fine two-over-par round of 72, the same score as Theo Pudney who studies at Sheringham Sixth Form. Both teenagers went to the turn in 35 strokes before returning in 37 – but Patterson claimed the title on countback. The tournament was decided by virtue of the King’s Lynn Golf Club member taking one stroke less than Pudney over the last six holes Patterson, whose handicap index is 6.7, showed real skill and composure in the closing stages of the tournament. In particular, at the challenging par-4 18th he chipped his third shot neatly to four feet before coolly knocking the ensuing putt into the middle of the cup. Asked to rate the victory in the context of his blossoming golf career, Patterson said: “It’s probably my top – I’ve never won an event so special and so important. I’ve won local events at Lynn, but this is the biggest one so far definitely. “This is a huge confidence boost for me. I just tried to play really sensible golf – not try and do anything too out of the blue – and it just worked out.” Patterson and Pudney finished two clear of defending champion Liam Caffyn (Northgate High School). The trio and three others will head next to the South East Schools Championship at Bury St Edmunds Golf Club on May 28. They will be joined by four Norfolk schoolgirls, headed by Wymondham High School sixth former Lilia Copeman. Bawburgh Golf Club member Copeman took the Norfolk Schools Girls Championship title for a second successive year. She fired a seven-over round of 79 to win by five strokes from Annabel Blake. Copeman, 18, said: “I left a few out there, but it was pretty decent. It’s a good start to the season, it’s set me up nicely. There’s positives to take.” King’s Lynn golfer Albie Patterson achieved a landmark victory at the Norfolk Schools’ Boys Championship. --- ## Sheringham golfer set for 2026 US Blind Golf Championships **Published:** Sunday, 5 April 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/sheringham-golfer-set-for-2026-us-blind-golf-championships *The renowned US Masters will be staged at Augusta next week but it isn’t the only international golf tournament taking place in Georgia in April. From April 13-15 the ISPS [ ]* The renowned US Masters will be staged at Augusta next week but it isn’t the only international golf tournament taking place in Georgia in April. From April 13-15 the ISPS Handa 2026 US Blind Golf Championships will be held at Green Island Country Club in Columbus – and Norfolk has a representative. Sheringham Golf Club member Paul Innocent will tee up in the B2 category for partially-sighted players. It will represent another landmark for Innocent, who last July won the B2 gross title at the ISPS British Blind Open at Cardrona in Scotland. Paul’s is an inspiring story and follows on from when he was diagnosed in 2023 with Leber’s Heriditary Optic Neuropathy, a rare incurable eye disease. Innocent, 43, said: “It has left me completely blind in my right eye and I only have 30 per cent vision remaining in my left eye – expected to dissipate to 0 within the next six to 18 months. “When I got the final diagnosis in January 2024 I felt like I’d lost my world. I had to surrender my driving licence and sell my electrical contracting business in Nottingham. “My wife and I decided to sell everything we had and move to our favourite place, North Norfolk, in September 2024. I joined Sheringham Golf Club in October the same year. “Everyone at the club has really helped and supported me fantastically. I couldn’t feel more welcome.” Indeed, fellow Sheringham member Rob Linge will be on the fairways alongside Innocent at Green Island Country Club. Linge acts as Paul’s guide and coach and has assisted him in many ways, including with addressing the ball. Rob, who himself has lost an arm, is proving a major asset especially on the greens where he provides key information that allows Innocent to determine the length of his stroke as well as his start-line. Innocent said: “Rob has been a real help with my game the past couple of months.” “If I’m on the green Rob will pace it out and say, ‘That’s 30 strides.’ Then I’ll know to bring my putter back seven inches, for example, depending on the course. We do a couple of hours practising on the greens, so that we get the pace. Innocent, who currently has a 15-handicap, will face players from across the world in America but intends to bring his A-game. He added: “We’re really knuckling down and we’re hoping to compete at the top echelons. “We’re not going out there for the experience, although the experience is going to be fantastic and I’m fortunate I can still do it. But we are going to compete.” The tournament is set to be just the start of a busy season of international competition for Innocent. He is scheduled to line up in Spain in May and Sweden in August, either side of trying to defend his British title at Portal Golf Club, Cheshire, in July. Paul Innocent is ready for a summer of international golf, starting in America this month with theISPS Handa 2026 US Blind Golf Championships --- ## NCGU first team take Clymer Bowl **Published:** Sunday, 5 April 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/ncgu-first-team-take-clymer-bowl *Norfolk’s first team golfers began the new season in impressive form as they claimed the curtain-raising Clymer Bowl staged at Great Yarmouth and Caister Golf Club. The annual foursomes event was contested [ ]* Norfolk’s first team golfers began the new season in impressive form as they claimed the curtain-raising Clymer Bowl staged at Great Yarmouth and Caister Golf Club. The annual foursomes event was contested by four 10-man teams representing the county’s firsts, seconds, juniors and a side selected by the current Norfolk County Golf Union president Stuart Goodman. During the morning’s play the firsts were forced to dig deep to beat the seconds 3-2. The match went down to the concluding game in which first-team duo Sully Goddard and Johnny Spinks triumphed 3&1. In the other semi-final the juniors took on a president’s side that included several stalwarts of Norfolk golf, including Simon Clark and Carl Green.  The evergreen duo, who have this year taken on joint management of the men’s county teams, led the way with a comfortable win and set the tone for an outright 3.5-1.5 success for the president’s side. Clark and Green again showed class is permanent when they delivered a thumping victory in the opening clash in the final. They beat George Morris and Ben Rawsthorne 7&6, but the first team took command in the other four ties to record a comfortable win. The juniors underlined their promise with a 3-2 victory in the third-place match. NCGU joint manager Carl Green said: "The Clymer Bowl is always an important marker for the season, and this year’s matches showed the depth that we have across the county squad. In tough, windy conditions every team competed with real commitment, and it was especially encouraging to see the quality coming through our juniors. “The first team handled the challenge superbly in the afternoon to secure the trophy, and it sets a positive tone for the year ahead. Our thanks go to Great Yarmouth & Caister for presenting the course so well and providing an excellent test to start the season.” Norfolk first team: George Morris, Ben Rawsthorne, Tom Beasley, Ed Dimambro, Matt Strudwick, Sean Rafferty, Sully Goddard, Jonathan Spinks, Callum Rana, Tom Rutherford. Norfolk second team:Peter Murphy, Warwick Calasse, Liam Caffyn, Scott Sealy, Josh Chamberlain, Theo Pudney, Harry Bradfield, Darren Abbs, Jake Gunby, Robert Wilson. Norfolk under-18s: Toby Lewin, Jake Hurren, Tibet Demirsoy, Shea Baker-Smith, Luis King, Jack Bennett, Luke Gilding, Henry Saddleton, Anthony Coppola, Louis Smith. President’s team:Simon Clark, Carl Green, Chris Lamb, Peter Allott, Robert Barnard, Chris Taylor, Stuart Goodman, Nick Franks, Nic Cains, Andrew Gooch Norfolk County Golf Union president Stuart Goodman hands over the Clymer Bowl to Norfolk first-team golfer George Morris --- ## Students take first steps on golf ‘Pathway’ **Published:** Tuesday, 3 February 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/students-take-first-steps-on-golf-pathway *Norfolk County Golf Union teamed up with Pathways College and DRAGONS On The Move to provide an inspiring golf day at Royal Norwich. Thirteen over-16s students from the college, which [ ]* Norfolk County Golf Union teamed up with Pathways College and DRAGONS On The Move to provide an inspiring golf day at Royal Norwich. Thirteen over-16s students from the college, which is attached to Parkside Provisional Complex Needs School, enthusiastically took part in the session which was hosted by NCGU’s development officer Sammy Martin and PGA professional Lloyd Jones. The students, who have a diverse range of social, emotional and mental health issues, shrugged off the cold conditions to have a go at golf. Lloyd gave easy-to-understand tips on the basics – and showed them how it’s done with his own impressive ball-striking. Attendees quickly grasped the magic elements that golf can offer and a return visit is on the cards. There was hot chocolate all round at the end, completing a brilliant experience for all involved. Sammy said: “It was a rainswept day on the range but the students never complained and were excited to learn a new activity. “The initiative stemmed from Norfolk County Golf Union’s desire to broaden opportunities so that everyone can have access to golf. Our offering to all is: ‘We endeavour to play together, whatever’. “Lloyd was fantastic with everyone. His coaching blended expertise, patience and a touch of humour. “The next step will be to invite the Pathways students back for a refresher session in early-spring. It would be great to involve some of our elite juniors at that event as I know they would gain a lot from the experience, as well as contribute to it.” The students gave glowing feedback after their golf initiation. One aspiring golfer reflected: “I got the better the more I did,” and another commented that the session was “incredible”. Pathways College senior teacher Joe Harkness said: “Golf, by its nature, does not present itself as the most inclusive space. NCGU showed us that you should not make assumptions based on what you expect. Lloyd and Sammy encouraged our students in a patient and fun way.” *Disability Real Action Group of Norfolk (DRAGONS On The Move ) work with Active Norfolk to assist groups looking to try new experiences. Pathways College students joined Norfolk County Golf Union at a golf event staged at Royal Norwich GC --- ## Yule hosts aspiring Norfolk juniors at King’s Lynn GC **Published:** Monday, 19 January 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/yule-hosts-aspiring-norfolk-juniors-at-kings-lynn-gc *DP World Tour professional Jack Yule returned to his roots to give Norfolk County Golf Union juniors a masterclass at his home club King’s Lynn. Yule progressed through the county [ ]* DP World Tour professional Jack Yule returned to his roots to give Norfolk County Golf Union juniors a masterclass at his home club King’s Lynn. Yule progressed through the county ranks in his teenage years and is a two-time Norfolk Amateur champion. Last autumn he made it through Qualifying School in Spain to earn the right to play on the DP World Tour for the first time. Before Christmas he played three events, one of which was the Australian Open at Royal Melbourne where Rory McIlroy and Adam Scott were among the star names. Yule is due to return to tour golf in the next couple of weeks but took time out to host nine Norfolk juniors aiming to follow in his footsteps. First he gave them an insight into his career with a Q and A session, talking about a variety of subjects including his approach to elite golf and equipment. Next he provided a few thoughts as the boys went through some drills on the practice range. After that, it was time for the golf course where Yule played a few holes with three separate three-balls. Yule, 31, said: “I’m glad I could help. It’s nice to see some talent coming through.” The county juniors thoroughly enjoyed the chance to walk the fairways alongside Yule on the excellent King’s Lynn lay-out. Norfolk County Golf Union development officer Sammy Martin said: “For our young golfers to tee up alongside Jack and understand how he has progressed from junior county player to DP World Tour professional is truly inspiring for them. “The generosity he showed towards the boys is commendable considering his busy schedule. Also, I would like to extend a big thank you to King’s Lynn Golf Club for welcoming us” Yule’s next start on the DP World Tour is likely to be the Qatar Masters at Doha Golf Club on Feb 5-8. There is a chance he may get into the previous week’s Bahrain Championship. If not, he is also eying up a Challenge Tour event in South Africa in the final days of January. Offering his first inside-the-ropes impressions on international tour golf, Yule added: “The courses are a little different to what I’m used to. I’ve got to learn quite quickly how to deal with things, crowds. Players are not an issue. It’s enjoyable to watch as well – there’s some good golf." DP World Tour professional Jack Yule with some of Norfolk’s junior squad. Jack getting ready to tee-off the 1st hole at King’s Lynn GC with Theo Pudney, Sully Goddard and Liam Caffyn. Jack, along with Tony Rushmer, hosted and Q & A session with some of Norfolk’s up and coming stars. --- ## County Inter-Club Knockout Draws **Published:** Tuesday, 13 January 2026 **URL:** https://www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk/blog/county-inter-club-knockout-draws *The draws for the 2026 County knockout competitions have been completed as follows and details have been sent to all Clubs. Good luck to everyone. Barnard Trophy 2026 Bass Trophy [ ]* The draws for the 2026 County knockout competitions have been completed as follows and details have been sent to all Clubs. Good luck to everyone. Barnard Trophy 2026 Bass Trophy 2026 Cullington Cup 2026 KK Smith 2026 Myhill Trophy 2026 Scratch KO 2026 Seniors Scratch KO 2026 ---