Rob Browning had to work (understandable as we have just come back from a week away at the County finals, Karl Smith was needed in the Second's as this was to be Nev's last game in charge and Karl is now to take over the mantle of captain, and finally myself sidelined due to an ongoing back complaint.

There was no need to worry though as Steve Creed, Richard Oddy and Joe Harris stepped up to help us on our way to victory.

I had an afternoon appointment in London so all I could do was put the pairings together and see the team on their way, I followed several groups for the first nine holes and with the morning result looking good, I left the team in the more than capable hands of Fred Jewsbury (more about Fred later) with no more instruction than to keep me posted on the state of play.

Fred did that with the good news that at lunch we were 4-1 up following the foursomes. This took some time to sink in as it was our first morning victory of the year, but after confirmation 'yes it was the correct score' and we were off to a flier - Jamie & Fred 2up, Sam & Elliott 6&5, Tom & Doogs halved, Steve & Ryan halved and Richard & Joe 3&2, so no losses, three wins and two halved matches.

At last we managed success in the foursomes as the pairings gelled together very well!

So now into the afternoon singles - via text I asked Fred to keep the team focussed and 'go for the kill' and that is what the team did.

Jamie Carney (out first) continued his outstanding form with another victory. Our next three Sam, Fred & Elliott didn't go to plan and three losses gave the momentum back to Staffs.

There were no worries though as soon came Tom Ibbertson with his 4&3 victory, Chris Doogs fought back admirably coming from several down to win 2up, then Ryan Wallace also kept his winning streak with the biggest win of the day 6&5.

Steve Creed gained his first singles point at The Herefordshire in our last match and there was no stopping him as a 4&3 win goes a long way to cement his position in the 1st team.

Richard Oddy lost out 3&2 but then Joe Harris sealed off a great day with his 3&2 win, showing the talent that is worthy of his call up.

The 10-5 victory that pushed us to second place in the league and edged us ahead of Staffs. This result capped off the year and will give us plenty to build on for next season when we will be looking for nothing short of winning the title.

My thanks to all the team for their support and passion shown throughout the year.

Finally back to Fred Jewsbury - thanks Fred for standing in as Captain and a victory in your last game for the county.

Yes it was Fred's last game as he is now joining the professional ranks and this gives me a good opportunity to firstly thank Fred for many successful years service he has given the county.

Certainly Fred would have been at the front of my mind when choosing my successor as Captain.

Thirdly I can speak for all of the team in wishing you all the best with your future - I am sure you will do us and yourself proud - good luck mate!

Finally thanks again to our president John Powell for his continued support at all of our matches this year.

John Stubbings again was there to give his support to the team this is very much appreciated by all the team.

Whittington GC was in great condition and the club looked after us with plenty of food and drink - it will be a crying shame should this great course be ripped apart to make way for the unnecessary high speed rail link