On a blustery, chilly but gloriously sunny morning, 19 Chicken Trotters flexed their muscles and prepared to do battle for the two major trophies of the year. The over 70s all vied for the Badham trophy, while the younger set sought to bring home the Danny Carew putter.

There was an air of celebration as the players set off in groups of three, enjoying the roll that the lightly frozen fairways provided. Serious stuff this end of year competition - and a lunch to follow the match with a promise of champagne for all from a magnanimous Brian Morgan.

Some of the trotters recognised the approach of Christmas and dressed accordingly. The photograph (above right) shows Bart Youll - definitely the oldest Geordy to believe in Santa Claus - telling Steve Cole in the role of Father Christmas all that he would like in his stocking.

When all the players had finished their rounds, they were joined in the clubhouse by another three trotters who had not competed and by our special guests, Marylin and her assistant David! While post golf and pre-lunch drinks were being consumed, the Chief Trotter was kept busy, aided by his trusty assistant Steve, checking cards and collecting money, while 'Morgy' looked after the raffle as usual.

After a slight problem opening the bottle, Morgy (pictured left) poured everybody a glass of champagne and proposed a toast to 'The Chicken Trotters. There was a slight pause, followed by groans and screams - the champagne was definitely 'off'. A great shame, Brian was very apologetic and explained that he had been keeping the bottle for a special occasion - ever since VE Day!

The group photograph was quickly taken, before any unfortunate trotter who had swallowed the champers was whipped off to hospital! A fine bunch of chaps I'm sure you'll agree

Then it was off to the dining room to be served traditional Christmas fare by Steve, Hilary and the girls. Tension mounted during lunch as everyone wondered who would be taking the trophies home this year.

As the last mince pies were devoured and the tables were cleared, Mickey stood, first to regale us with a joke - then to announce the raffle. All the prizes were generously donated by individual trotters and very grateful we are too. Unfortunately, when the tickets came out of the hat, the distribution of luck was a little uneven - three of the prizes going to the top table. However, all was forgiven and Mickey stood again to announce the following results;

The winner of the coveted Badham Trophy, with a truly erratic score of 32 points - Mike Fox

Also with 32 points - and claiming the Danny Carew Putter - the incredibly young Steve Cole.

Shot of the day was unanimously awarded to the Badham Trophy winner. Mike plays off an extremely generous 27 handicap and the vagaries of the trotter scorecard means that he gets two shots on the 12th. Thanks to a fine tee shot followed by a flawless 12-foot putt, he scored 2 for 0 for 5 - yes five! - seemples!

Sadly, there was no prize for his two!

In closing, Mickey thanked the trotters for their continued support and announced that the next trot would be on the first Friday in January. All the happy trotters made their way home, vowing to improve next year.

A very merry Christmas to trotters young and old and good golfing in the New Year.

See you then!

M.F.