It was the final Sunday of the winter playing season and this is marked by the playing of the John Griffiths trophy, writes John Barnard.

John was a much loved member of Sidmouth Golf Club sadly lost a few years ago.

He was captain and chairman plus he served on many committees and worked tirelessly for the good of the club he loved so much

The format of the competition is a three man team drawn randomly, a medal with one score to count on each hole. As it was the final Sunday of the winter season, it also saw the conclusion of the Livery Dole Winter League.

A three tee start meant everyone was back to the clubhouse in record time although there was a queue for the new PSI machine which checks the scores and displays the current ‘state of play’ electronically.

When all the scores were in, it became apparent that Lester Willmington, Barry Venn and John Barnard had won although only on countback.

They scored 55, eleven better than standard scratch.

They didn’t start well on the 14th, but Barry got a good net birdie on fifteen to get them going. The highlight was Lester chipping in from just short of the green on the seventh for a three net two.

Out in 28, back in 27, they suspected they hadn’t done quite enough but on the day, it prevailed.

The unfortunates in second place were Paul Renken (needing a good result as he was in second place in the winter league) Sean Murphy and club captain Richard Powell. They had a fantastic front nine of 25, but a disappointing back nine of 30 which cost them a win. In third place were Will Hastie, Mike Smedley and Howard Cushing with 57.

In the Winter League, Lee Wenhams’ team did just enough to keep Lee one point ahead of Paul Renken.

Mark Thomas was a further point back in third. This was Lee’s third consecutive year as Winter League champion and shows the benefit of playing consistent golf and getting some lucky draws for playing partners!