AFTER 2025's difficult winter weather, it was thanks largely to course manager Dylan Stokes and his greenkeeping team that acceptable playing conditions greeted Ross Golf Club members and guests at the annual mid-week Invitation charity event, reports KEITH RAY.

Organised by the club's men's seniors aged 55+ committee, this enabled the section's new seniors captain Doug Graham to see his designated charity St Michael's Hospice benefitting to the tune of a marvellous £1,500 in contributions.

Doug paid special thanks to close friend Mark Oliver of North Oxford GC, who made the trip with friends who had been particularly generous in their support.

Since joining Ross in 2021, accomplished 10.5 handicapper Alec Osborn has been a regular at this better ball stableford, contested by 42 pairs.

Alec's guest was his good pal Peter Horton from Blackwell GC, with the pairing enjoying a day to remember and Alec capturing two birdies and 10 pars representing 36 of their 46-point winning total.

Alec thanked Peter and acknowledged his recent investment in improving himself through coaching from the Ross club's PGA Professional Zach Galliford.

Stephen Harrhy and Neil Cooper excelled as runners-up with 44, and were followed by Keith Flitton and Steve Thompson of Wharton Park GC and Roger Morgan and brother Stephen of Moseley GC, who both carded 43.

Top ladies were Ruth Kirchmeier and guest Janet Marlow ( Moseley GC) with an impressive 40, while former ladies captain Sally Fycun and partner John McConalogue (Kidderminster GC) were best mixed pairing with 39 points.

Doug thanked head professional Tim Hall and his Tim Hall School of Golf sponsorship which covered the raffle and subsidiary prizes, and Tim and Zach who successfully denied entrants in the 'Beat the Pro' challenge at the par 3 seventh.

Jenny Reeve-Tucker and June Savidge were the 'welcoming wonders' on reception with Colin Price and Keith Ray assisting on administration, while John Devine and his catering team ensured all were properly wined and dined.