It's me this month whilst my fellow scribe is away enjoying himself in 'Happy' Horsham. He will be back, I hope.

After weeks of horrendous weather, at long last a glorious day for golf. The host this month was Fairwood Park Golf Club somewhere near Swansea - I say 'somewhere' because my 'SatNav' took me, I'm sure, to Bridgend and back, before we found the club, but it was well worth the effort, as the course and the staff were indeed perfect hosts.

The course was in pristine condition, with superbly manicured fairways, complimented by wonderful receptive greens. These factors produced high scoring rounds of golf. The only disappointing factor of the day being the last minute withdrawal of several players for one reason or another. Their loss. We ended up with a 'reliable' 15, instead of a 'possible' 21, and we all enjoyed ourselves.

First tee was at 10 am, and leading the way were Martin 'Odd Job' Davies, Glyn 'DaLoo' Jones and Wyn 'Buttermilk' Hopkins. The latter played really well and carried the flag for the team. Hot on their heels was the formidable trio of Terry 'SatNav' Harvey, Tim 'The Gavel' Davies and the old chap of the party, Barry 'Chippy' Wood. The old fella played well, so buck up you young 'uns!

Next off the first were Stuart 'Smokey Joe' Evans, Gary 'Compo' Hopkins (bad back and all)! and John 'Geordie' Hargraves. A good round by these three, with 'Smokey' almost among the prizes.

Fourth off were the 'Mean Team' comprising of Roger 'Toneee' Handcock, Mark 'The Angel' Wood (Woody) and Trevor 'Santa' Lewis. These three mean golfers scooped the pool.

Off last, but by no means least, were the three Steves in the shapes of Steve 'Auditor' Jones, Steve 'Hotshot' Rigby and Steve 'Kenning' Mickelthwait (or whatever the monika)! Well done the Steves, only three points behind the 'Mean Team'.

After a refreshing shower (by some) and a thirst-quenching pint or two, we took our places for a well-deserved mouth-watering meal, and this it certainly was. After the food, it was the formalities, starting with the raffle, the main prizes being won by the 'Auditor' and 'Geordie', respectively. You two are excluded next month!

The golf prizes were won by the following: 1. Roger 'Toneee' Handcock (40 pts) - what will your next handicap be?; 2. Trevor 'Santa' Lewis (39 pts) - another who is in for a shock!; 3. Steve 'Hotshot' Rigby - need I comment? I think not.

Wooden spoon: Martin 'Odd Job' Davies - your handicap will be going in the opposite direction to the other three.

Team: 'Toneee', 'Santa' and 'The Angel' with a 'Mean' 108 pts. OAP: 'Chippy' (37 pts) - not bad for an old un! Over 20 handicap: 'Smokey Joe' (36 pts) - a hot round indeed.

Longest drive: 'Toneee'. Nearest pin: 'The Gavel'.

After the presentations, 'Chippy' thanked all the players for their continued support and looked forward to seeing them all at the next meeting. He then thanked Fairwood Golf Club for hosting the day and the caterers for their finger-lickin food, and a pleasant manner. A drink to wash down the meal and we were on our way back home.

At the time of going to press, next month's venue had not been decided, so watch this space for further information, or phone either Mark or Barry, who should have the details within the next week or two. This is yours truly signing off with these thoughts, relax - enjoy - and don't try to whack it too hard. Thanks once again for your support.

B.J.A.W.