After the terrible wet winter when playing golf became an occasional outing, it was good to play the first seniors competitive match of the season last Thursday in spring-like weather, writes Christopher Grubb.

The rivalry between Sidmouth and Honiton usually produces some very close encounters but on this occasion Sidmouth started the season in good form winning by four-and-a-half to one-and-a-half.

Captain Nigel Sharp and his partner vice-captain David Bromage were first to play and with three holes to go the pair were two down, but fought back to get a half. Match two was won comfortably four-and-three by Chris Grubb and Brian Cole. Next out were Colin Mitchell and Colston Herbert who won two-and-one after trailing by three just four holes in!

Fourth out Peter Emery and Brian Jones won two-and-one after a tight match, but hung on to win. Fifth out Les Pratt and John Townsend were all square by the 17th but unfortunately lost on the 18th green to a very good birdie by the Honiton duo of Rogers and Jones. Last out Charles Brown and Bruce Harcourt were comfortable winners four-and-three having led all the way round.

The return leg at Honiton will be played in May when Honiton hope to gain their revenge.