Tuesday 30th December

Excellent conditions for the last game of 2014 with Eddie Varah's 37 points taking first place and Tony Davis second with 36. Eighteen played and from the scores returned most seem to have Christmas spirit still in their systems.
All the best to everyone for 2015 and may all your putts go in.

Christmas Greetings

Unfortunately it was too wet for golf on Tuesday but hopefully we'll get a game in before the New Year.
If not, Merry Christmas and wishing everyone what they would wish for themselves in 2015.
Clive Milburn had a hip replaced and seems to be doing well.

Tuesday 16th December

Twenty three competitors meant we could finalise the bottle trot in conditions it would be hard to improve on. The lowest score among the eight prizewinners was 35 with only six scoring less than 30 off full handicap. Brian Taylor and Willie Smith tied for first place on 40 points, Willie having the better back nine.

Email Virus

Beware an email from UK Fuels Ltd with a reply address @ebillinvoice.
It has a microsoft word attachment that contains a trojan script.
As with all unexpected mail, delete immediately without opening the attachment.

Sandpipers' Web Site

I've finally got round to updating the information including our competitions and matches for 2015, reports from our recent AGM and the rogues' gallery of prize winners. The link is in the right hand column of this page.

Christmas Dinner

Nobody ventured out to play in the horrendous conditions but twenty four sat down at the festive tables. Everyone received a prize in the draw and thank you to Brian Taylor for compiling a "Rules of Golf" quiz for the three teams where 5 out of 10 correct was classed as a result. It was queried whether asking for relief off a coiled rattlesnake was appropriate for Silloth.
There are still eight prizes left to play for and Geoff has suggested that the first Tuesday when twenty or over turn up the entry fee will be waived and club handicaps will apply. Fortunately none of the prizes are perishable.

Tuesday Xmas Lunch

Geoff has decided that the forecast is so poor that the lunch will be at 12.00 for 12.30pm and the Bottle Trot will be held on the first day a quorum (min 12) of us turn out between now and the new year. Any amendments can be decided on Tuesday.
Please double check that anyone you know who has booked a meal is aware of this update.

Tuesday 2nd December

Possibly the highest attendance of the year so far with twenty nine enjoying a clear sunny sky and warm(ish) temperature.
Ian Porter scented big prize money and returned 36 points. John Tudor came second with 34.

Thursday 27th November

Dismal weather today but still a good turnout of twenty.
Clive Milburn and Ivor Nelson tied on 37 points with Clive having the better back nine.
David Barnes has set off for his winter overstay in Oz.

Tuesday 25th November

Calm and overcast again with twenty five making the most of the kind conditions. Alan Heywood pushed Brian Taylor into second place with a better inward nine in his 38 points.

Thursday 20th November

Calm and overcast today with most of the scores in the 30s.
Joe Campbell won with 40 points and Ivor Nelson second with 39.
Another good turnout of eighteen.

Tuesday 18th November

Super weather for the time of year. Jim Johnson blew the field away with 40 points and myself second with 37. Twenty three turned out which meant the last group came in at 4.00pm with about quarter of an hour of light left, even with no clouds.
Only a few names on the £18 Christmas Luncheon list so far. It will help Geoff to select prizes and the caterers to organise the tables if names are appended in the very near future.

Thursday 13th November

A gloomy day and a reminder that the last out will be close to finishing in the dark if held up.
David Low had the best card of sixteen with 37 points followed by Sandy Tonner with 35.

Tuesday 11th November

Two excellent scores in today's well attended competition.
Geoff Scott and Mike Mapleton both scored 40 points with Geoff having the better back nine.
The menu and list for names are on the notice board for our annual Bottle Trot and Christmas Lunch on 9th December.
Finally, much of the bare ground is wet and very slippy particularly on slopes so you may wish to consider changing to metal spikes to avoid 'slip ups'.

Tuesday 4th November

A big turnout of twenty seven for today's calm conditions, but a pity about the heavy shower that caught the later starters.
Good news and bad news for Joe Holmes. Good news - 40 points winning score. Bad news - locked himself out of his car! Tommy Neilly was runner up with 37.
Quote of the year on the tee today: "You'll have to get a move on to keep up today 'cos us three are on buggies". Malcolm D.

Andy Edwards

Andy Edwards has been in touch to advise that the seriousness of his setback has been greatly exaggerated and that he intends to be back, although not this year. We all wish him a speedy recovery.

Thursday 30th October

Once again a good turnout of twenty two for today's mild conditions. Roy Williams took first prize with 36 point and Harry Wright with the best back six of several 33's came second.
I regret to inform that Andy Edward's health has taken a serious turn for the worse, particularly poignant as he recently made a comeback and got his handicap right down.
And finally, we revert to winter hours next Tuesday with kick off at 10.50am.

Thursday 23rd October

Changeable blustery conditions for today's sixteen competitors.
Jim Johnson's handicap was recently cut at Carlisle and he lost four more shots with us for his winning 39 points score.
Roger Cutts came second with 35 points.
The Christmas menu is now to hand for our annual bottle trot in early December so we will soon have to pre select our choices.

Thursday 16th October

Fifteen competitors.

1st Robin Binny 33pts (back 3 count back)

2nd John Dixon 33pts

Conditions Good/Calm

Regards

John Gibson

Tuesday 14th October

Brian Taylor organised today's Texas Scramble with military precision for the twenty seven who played in teams of three.
Our team returned a nett 65.5 in breezy conditions and handicap of 9.5.
This earned us next to last place with Tony Davis, Harry Wright and Geoff Waite scoring an incredible 58 (and 1/6th) to take the money.

Tuesday 7th October

A good turnout of twenty seven today making the most of fair conditions while we can.
Three scored 39 points, Jim Johnson being squeezed out of the prizes on the back six by Bruce Bedford while Bob Saunders cruised in with twenty three.
Congratulations to Clive Milburn on reaching the big 70 and gratitude from everyone at the nineteenth who enjoyed his hospitality.
Next Tuesday is a popular Texas Scramble with Brian Taylor being co-opted to organise proceedings.

Thursday 2nd October

Nineteen played in today's bright and breezy conditions, Roy Williams recording a winning 38 points card and Tony Davis squeezing out John Dixon for second place on countback with 36.

Tuesday 30th September

The Jim Gilfillan and Harry Wright pairing won today's Brindley Greensomes Salver with 46 points followed on 43 by Alan Proud with Roger Cutts.
Secretary Geoff Waite chaired the ensuing AGM where there was some lively discussion about various subjects with the status quo being maintained except for our annual fixtures with Maryport which the overwhelming majority voted to abandon. Treasurer John Dixon produced a healthy balance sheet with several suggestions for how to reduce the surplus to the benefit of members.
Most members were present to receive their trophies at the prize giving that brought an end to a successful day.

Tuesday 23rd September

A couple of drizzle showers didn't put off Tommy Neilly and Geoff Waite who scored 40 and 39 points respectively for first and second places.
Surprisingly considering the mid morning rain, nineteen turned out.
Next Tuesday is our AGM, preceded at 9.00am with the Brindley Trophy Greensomes.

Thursday 18th September

The fine weather continued for today's twenty three competitors.
One of our more senior members added to his pension with 37 points and a loss of three shots. Congratulations John Dixon. Ian Hind was runner up with 34..Our AGM is on Tuesday 30th commencing with the Brindley Salver Greensomes at 9.00am (weather permitting).
If you have any items you wish to have discussed, please advise our Secretary.

Saxons v Celts Result

Willie Smith

Saxons' Captain of the Day Jim Johnson congratulated Celts' Captain Brian Taylor on a decisive victory and gave effusive praise to our pair of bankers (John Tudor and Mike Mapleton) who recorded our only win. Brian gave equally fulsome thanks to the Saxons co-opted to his team for their assistance in securing their five wins.

Saxons v Celts

This is the current list of names posted for selection.

SAXONS CELTS
J.Johnson                     J.Campbell
J.Gibson                      G.Anderson
J.Dixon                        S.Tonner
D.Young                      B.Taylor
J.Tudor                        T.Neilly
E.Harle                        W.Smith
D.Wood                       I.Hind
G.Fisher                       H.Wright
A.Proud                       D.Barnes
T.Davis                        C.Milburn
G.Scott                         R.Binny
M.Mapleton                  J.Crookall-Nixon
I.Porter                          J.Gilfillan

Thursday 11th September

Only thirteen turned out for today's perfect conditions. Ian Porter took full advantage with 40 points followed by John Gibson with 34.
Jim Johnson is this year's Sandpiper Champion having won on the 18th against Tommy Neilly.
Next Tuesday is the annual Saxons v Celts battle so hopefully the weather will hold.

Tuesday 9th September

Even with seven of us away on tour, nineteen turned out.
John Gibson reports:
19 stay at home Sandpipers played in cloudy and warm conditions.
B Taylor's back 9 of 23 was just outside the prizes
Gerry Fisher's 40 points earned him second place with a handicap reduction from 9 to 5.
Malcolm Donald's winning 42 points earned him a handicap reduction of 6 shots 20 to 14.

Birthday Boy

Remiss of me not to mention David Low's generosity at the bar last Tuesday to celebrate his recent **th birthday. Appreciated by all present David.

Penrith Match Result

Our new "buttercup shirt" look did us no good at all as we collapsed to a 7 - 1 drubbing.
On the brighter side under Captain Geoff Waite's leadership, the company and meal were good, the course in good condition and it didn't rain.

Tuesday 2nd September

Ideal calm and sunny conditions for today's Bob Saunders Cup and good scores from the early starters were gradually overtaken, finally topped by John Gibson in the last fourball with 40 points. David McCrum came second with 39 on countback.
This Thursday is our return match at Penrith.

Penrith v Sandpipers Team

Thursday 4th September

Dress: Smart Casual

09-30 -  G. Waite ( C ) / J Holmes
09-37 -  R Williams / J. Dixon
09-44 -  T Davis / W Smith
09-51 -  J Campbell / J. Johnson
09-58 -  B Taylor / B Bedford
10-05 -  D Wood / M Mapleton
10-12 -  I Porter / J Tudor
10-19 -  G Anderson / R. Cutts

Reserves:    I Nelson, E Harle, A Proud, L Heyes

Thursday 28th August

Sun, wind and showers today, Joe Holmes and David Barnes taking the cash with 32 and 31 points respectively. Fourteen played.
Our new kit has arrived so we can all look colour coordinated at our away match with Penrith next Thursday. Contact Joe Campbell to collect yours. Payment to John Dixon.
Best wishes to Harry Wright who goes for a shoulder op next Tuesday.

Tuesday 26th August

Twenty five played for the J. Banks Trophy in sunny conditions with a strong north east wind.
Don Young made a successful comeback after triple bypass surgery with a winning 40 points followed Jonathan Nixon on 38, easing out Gerry Fisher on the back nine.
Geoff Waite presented Joe Holmes with the George Wright Trophy for the highest Sandpiper score in the recent Silloth Seniors' Open.
We also sponsored two tees for charity in yesterday's Help for Heroes open team competition.

Seniors Open Results

Early starters played in horrendous conditions but it didn't stop Bruce Bedford scoring 35 points and 24 balls for a two. Joe Holmes was the overall winner of the trophy for the best Sandpiper score with 36 points.
It was also a handicap qualifying competition and so please advise if yours has been adjusted.

Tuesday 19th August

Bright and breezy for today's twenty competitors. Charles Woodhouse won with 37 points followed by Joe Campbell's 36 which outdid Roy Williams by one point on the last three holes countback.
This year's championship final will be contested by Jim Johnston who had the round of his life today with me on the receiving end and Tom Neilly who saw Sandy Tonner off on the seventeenth.
This Thursday is the Seniors' Open competition.
Someone left a Mizuno lob wedge out on the course. It's now in the pro's shop.

Thursday 14th August

Another day for shirt sleeves golf. Ivor Nelson posted a winning 37 points followed by Roger Cutts with 34. Only six of the fourteen players bettered 30 points.
Amend you diaries for the Celts / Saxons match to Tuesday 16th September as the Jocks have something else to do on the Thursday.
Spare a thought for former member Ejaz (O') Malik who has recently had some bad news regarding his health.

Tuesday 12th August

Eighteen braved the high winds from the tail end of hurricane Bertha and were fortunate enough to finish before the rain started. Defending Carrick Trophy winner Clive Milburn was pipped into second place on countback by Sandy Tonner. Their 30 points winning scores emphasised the difficulty of the conditions.
Roger Cutts celebrated his seventieth birthday by inviting everyone to join him with as glass of wine.

Tuesday 5th August

A good turnout of twenty six for our only medal competition held in near perfect conditions.
Jim Johnson won the Ronnie Thompson Trophy with a nett 67 and Joe Penrice second (the best of the three 68s).
At the after proceedings the majority decided to choose a green wool/acrylic sweater or slipover with "Sandpipers" added to the official Silloth GC logo complimented by a gold coloured shirt. The prices are very reasonable and anyone who hasn't been included in the initial order can be included in a minimum order of two at a later date. Contact Joe for full details.

Extraordinary Meeting

Secretary Geoff Waite hopes that members will attend a short meeting after our competition on Tuesday to discuss options to accommodate an annual match against Powfoor Seniors and also an update about purchase of our apparel.

Maryport Match Result 2

A narrow 5.5 - 4.5 victory gave us revenge at home for last Monday's defeat at Maryport.
Although sunny, the strong breeze and difficult conditions meant most of us were out there for nearly five hours. Due to an urgent pit stop I missed both captains' speeches.

Tuesday 29th July

Breezy and warm for today's fifteen competitors.
Welcome to new member Gerry Fisher who started with his club handicap of 13 and finished with a new Sandpiper handicap of 9, having cleaned up with 38 points. Geoff Scott came second with 32.
Thursday is our home match v Maryport and next Tuesday is our only medal competition, the Ronnie Thompson Memorial Trophy

Maryport Match Result

Once again we played in sunny conditions with a slight breeze.
Captain Grant Anderson welcomed everyone who attended, complimented Maryport on the condition of the course and the quality of the meal provided. He then invited the Bankenders' Captain to respond. We carry a deficit of 3.5 - 6.5 to our home match on Thursday.

Sandpipers v Maryport Team

Thursday 31st July

Dress: Jacket and Tie

10-30 -  G. Anderson( C ) / T. Neilly
10-37 -  W. Smith / I Hind
10-44 -  D. Barnes / J. Tudor
10-51 -  D. Wood / J. Holmes
10-58 -  H. Wright / J. Dixon
11-05 -  R. Williams / J. Gibson
11-12 -  J. Gilfillan / E. Harle
11-19 -  B. Taylor / G. Waite
11-26 -  B. Bedford / D. Mc Crum
11-33 -  I Porter / J. Campbell

Reserve: S.Tonner

Tuesday 22nd July

Brilliant sunshine and a slight breeze for today's John Eilbeck Trophy competition.
Jim Gilfillan won (again) with 41 points followed by Joe Penrice one behind.
Thursday's club Pro-Am competition has been cancelled so it's a normal Sandpiper tee time for anyone who turns up.

Seascale Match Result

A good 5.5 - 2.5 win in fair conditions
Captain John Gibson referred to some interesting incidents that occurred during the matches that might have made a difference to the score.

Maryport v Sandpipers Team

Monday 28th July

Dress: Smart Casual

10-00 - G. Anderson( C ) / G. Waite
10-07 - B. Bedford / J. Tudor
10-14 - J. Campbell / H. Wright
10-21 - W. Smith  J. Johnson
10-28 - D. Wood  M. Mapleton
10-35 - J. Dixon / I Porter
10-42 - R. Williams / D.McCrum
10-49 - T. Neilly / L. Heyes
10-56 - B. Taylor / J. Gibson
11-03 - J. Holmes / E. Harle

Tuesday 15th July

Cool and breezy today and the course playing as tough as ever with less than half of the twenty two starters breaking 30 points.
Joe Campbell returned a winning 37 points, beating David McCrum on the inward nine.
Thursday is our home match against Seascale.

Thursday 10th July

Not surprisingly having fielded sixteen players against Brampton yesterday, only thirteen turned up today even though the conditions were ideal.
Jim Gilfillin took first place with 37 points, one ahead of Malcolm Donald.

Brampton Match Result

A reversal in fortunes today as we went down 6 - 2 to the Curlews.
Nevertheless the sun shone, the company was good and we all enjoyed an excellent buffet afterwards.
Names are still required for home and away games against Maryport, both in the same week at the end of this month.

Sandpipers v Seascale Team

Thursday 17th July

Dress: Jacket and Tie

10-30 -  J. Gibson ( C ) / C. Milburn
10-37 -  T. Davis / G. Anderson
10-44 -  R. Williams / W. Smith
10-51 -  B. Taylor / J. Campbell
10-58 -  I Porter / D. Wood
11-05 -  G. Waite / H. Wright
11-12 -  J. Holmes / M. Mapleton
11-19 -  T. Clamp / T. Neilly

Reserves: J.Tudor, J.Johnson

Thursday 3rd July

Fourteen of us trailed along behind a visiting party today in windy conditions. Jim Gilfillan came out on top with 35 points followed by Robin Binny one point behind.
Ivor Nelson rejoined us officially today with a real bandit's handicap and good to see Roy Williams back again. Roy wishes to thank everyone for their phone calls and thoughts during his recent treatment sessions.

Tuesday 1st July

Choice of clubs was important for today's T.Anderton 5 Clubs Competition. Then being able to hit them properly was no problem for Ian Hind with a winning 40 points followed by Brian Taylor with 35.
A creditable turn out of twenty four enjoyed the hot sunny conditions.

Tuesday 24th June

After the usual shambles organising the draw for a greensomes competition, eighteen of us competed for the Terry Walters Trophy. Fortunately for me, my playing partner David Barnes was on top form and our 41 points took first place.
Welcome to our new member Tim Clamp who hails from Cockermouth.

Brampton v Sandpipers Team

Wednesday 9th July

Dress: Smart Casual

9.30 -  D. Wood ( C ) / J. Johnston
9.37 -  G. Anderson / I.Hind
9.44 -  J. Campbell / T. Neilly
9.51 -  T. Davis / J. Holmes
9.58 -  B. Taylor / W. Smith
10.05 -  R. Williams / J. Tudor
10.12 -  I. Porter / I.W. Nelson
10.19 -  H. Wright / M. Mapleton

Please note we have no reserves.

In Car Camera

You may wish to turn the sound off if viewing with the family!!!
http://youtu.be/0jslLbG6-0w

Brampton Match Result

A good 5 -3 win in ideal conditions followed by another superb meal.
Another reminder that we are desperately short of names for our next two matches.
Sheets are on the notice board.

Tuesday 17th June

Only seventeen took advantage of today's near perfect conditions for the John Norton Cup which I will be pleased to receive at this year's presentation ceremony. 43 points was enough to win, Willie Smith taking second place with 40.
Ivor Nelson made a welcome return, putting in a third card for handicap.
Sheets are on the notice board for our away match v Brampton and at home v Seascale both of which are well undersubscribed. Please check your diary and make yourself available if possible.

Terry Stubbs

About a dozen of us turned up at Silverdale today to make sure Terry had a good send off.
Doreen thanked all who attended.

Sandpipers v Brampton Team

Thursday 19th June

Dress: Jacket and Tie

10-30 -  D. Wood ( C ) / H. Wright
10-37 -  J. Holmes / J. Campbell
10-44 -  B. Taylor / G. Waite
10-51 -  T. Davis / J. Tudor
10-58 -  I. Porter  / W. Smith
11-05 -  D. Barnes / M. Mapleton
11-12 -  G. Anderson / C. Milburn
11-19 -  I. Hind / J. Dixon

Reserve:    L. Heyes  

Tuesday 10th June

Early heavy showers gave way to sunny and breezy conditions for today's eighteen competitors.
Joe Campbell won with 35 points followed by David Barnes with 33.

Terry Stubbs

Terry's funeral service will be held on Thursday 12th June at 2.00pm in St John's church at Silverdale.
Maryport Bank Enders have willingly agreed to postpone our match and wish to add their condolences.
Travel arrangements for those who wish to attend the service can be made on Tuesday.

Terry Stubbs RIP

I regret having to inform everyone that Terry passed away last Monday, only a few days after moving to his new home in Silverdale.
He was a long standing member who rarely missed our competitions and matches until the onset of his illness in the autumn of last year.
Joe has passed on our condolences to his widow and family and details of the funeral arrangements will be posted here when known.

Carlisle Match Result

A narrow victory over a depleted Red Squirrels' team allowed us to regain the George Wright Trophy (wherever it is).
Captain of the Day Tony Davis thanked the Squirrels for their hospitality and complimented the caterers for an excellent meal.

Tuesday 27th May

Super conditions for today's seventeen contestants.
Joe Holmes' 37 points took first place and Les Heyes second with 34.
Time is getting on for our championship first round to be completed. The onus is on the challenger (top name) to arrange a date with their opponent.
Finally, Joe is short of names for our Maryport match and won't have much much time after our Ireland trip to sort things out. Please help out by putting your names forward.

Golf Clubs For Sale

Stuart Jones has decided to hang up his waterproofs and has the following gear to dispose of.
9 Ping Eye2 (Blue spot) Irons
5 Ping woods/metals.
1 Putter, 1 Good carrying bag.
Any proceeds for these items to the Motor Neurone Disease Association.
The other set are quite recent and comprise :-
8 Cleveland Senior Flex Graphite Tour Action TA5 Irons
1 Taylor Made Burner 3 Metal Wood, 1 Putter.
Contact me for Stuart's email address if interested.

Tuesday 20th May

Today's challenging conditions meant that only six of the twenty four contestants for the Tom Sowerby Trophy broke 30 points. Joe Holmes and David Low took first and second prizes with 38 and 34 points respectively.

Workington Match Result

Unfortunately we were unable to gain sufficient wins against the Beck Watchers to take the Shanks Trophy off their hands.

Thursday 15th May

Unfortunately I was away but from the results sheet I see that Andy Edwards survived a meteoric plunge in handicap to win yet again and David Low took second place.
Fourteen played.
Several club handicaps have been adjusted

Tuesday 13th May

Andy Edwards scored a tremendous 43 points today but was still three points short of Clive Milburn's winning score that won him the John Todd Shield. I recommend they both have a stiff drink before checking their adjusted club handicaps on howdidido.com (Clive = 16.0, Andy 15.4).
Twenty seven turned out for the perfect conditions.

Revised Workington Match Dress Code

The dress code for Workington is Smart Casual. Playing attire is not allowed in the dining room so we are required to change our shirts etc..
Joe

Thursday 8th May

Rain interfered with play again for sixteen of us. Ian Hind turned in the highest score of 34 points and David Barnes second with the best back nine of three 33s.
Next Tuesday is the John Todd Shield, another of our handicap qualifying competitions.

Workington v Sandpipers Team

Monday 19th May

Dress: Jacket and Tie

9.30 -  B. Taylor  ( C ) / B. Bedford
9.37 -  J. Gibson / D. Barnes
9.44 -  W. Smith / L. Heyes
9.51 -   J. Holmes / S. Tonner
9.58 -  J. Campbell / G. Anderson
10.05 -  D. Wood / M. Mapleton
10.12 -  R. Cutts / G. Waite
10.19 -  T. Davis / I Hind
10.26 -   H. Wright / J. Tudor
10.33 -  I. Porter / C. Woodhouse

No Reserves Available

Seascale Match Result

After three consecutive wins, today's 2.5 - 5.5 loss came as a reality check for Captain John Gibson and the rest of the team. Apart from three top dressed greens the course was in fair condition and with sunny weather followed by a  good meal only the result spoiled the day.

Tuesday 29th April

A much higher standard in today's ideal conditions as those with 41 points weren't in the hunt.
Ian Porter took second place with 42 and Clive Milburn winning the George Doughty Cup with 43.
Good to see Peter Hetherington paying a social visit and best wishes to Jim Gilfillan who is having a knee op in early May.

Seascale v Sandpipers Team

Tuesday 6th May

Dress: Smart Casual

10-00 -  J. Gibson  ( C ) / G. Anderson
10-07 -  J. Dixon / H. Wright
10-14 -  T. Davis / D. Wood
10-21 -  I Porter / T. Neilly
10-28 -  R. Cutts / B. Bedford
10-35 -  R. Williams / J. Campbell
10-42 -  C. Milburn / J. Tudor
10-49 -  M. Mapleton / G. Waite

Reserves:

D.Barnes, B.Taylor, J.Holmes, J.Crookall Nixon, A.Proud   

Thursday 24th April

Brian Taylor added to his winning streak with a 38 points score followed by Roger Cutts one point behind.
Sixteen turned out to enjoy the warm sunshine.

Tuesday 22nd April

Twenty joined in today for a drawn pairs format with both scores added for the John Cooper Trophy.
Although conditions weren't too clever several scores were much higher than we have posted recently with three 37s, three 36s and most better than 30.
Brian Taylor and myself combined well with a winning 71 points and as we played off club handicaps it was a qualifying competition.
The sheet for those wishing to play at Workington is on the notice board.

Penrith Golf Club

Extract from Penrith Golf Club newsletter –Dad’s Army section
Commenced interclub matches and played Eden, Carus Green and Silloth.
The return of the Silloth fixture has been welcomed and those who played  there had a really enjoyable day
You have to sample the fish & chips @ Silloth!!

Thursday 17th April

David Barnes' 27 points second place score sums up today's conditions with Clive Milburn the only one in front with a winning score of 32 from a field of thirteen.
Joe Holmes is trying to source a pair of buoyancy tanks for his Powacaddy after his encounter with the flooded bunker on the eighth.

Allonby Speed Limit

It appears the men in blue are active and booking anyone exceeding the temporary 30mph between Allonby and Mawbray. Be warned.

Carlisle Match Result

Captain Tony Davis hosted our match against the Red Squirrels in ideal sunny conditions which the Sandpipers won by 5.5 to 2.5.
Our next three matches are all away commencing 6th May at Seascale.

Workington Match Result

Match Captain Brian Taylor led the troops to a 6 - 4 victory which will be carried forward to the away fixture that will decide the winners of the Shanks' Trophy.
After five hours out on the course in cool and draughty conditions everyone was ready for the sumptuous meal provided by Octavia and David.

Tuesday 8th April

A creditable twenty seven turned up for our Championship Qualifier with the first sixteen going through to the knockout stages. The draw and play by dates will be on the notice board on Thursday which coincides with our home match against Workington.
The £54 entry fees go towards the £100 available to the eventual Champion to donate to a charity or good cause of his choice.
Once again modesty makes me reluctant to name the winner today, but I finished one point in front of second placed Joe Penrice who had 37 points.

Thursday 3rd April

Once again the east wind made the back nine difficult.
Geoff Waite made light work of it with a winning score of 38 points and myself second with 33.
Next Tuesday is our championship qualifying competition with an entry fee of £2 that the eventual champion can donate to a good cause of his choice.
If you wish to play but not have your name go forward into the knockout stages please advise the starter.

Sandpipers v Carlisle Team

Tuesday 15th April

Dress: Jacket and Tie

10.30 -  T. Davis  ( C ) / J. Campbell
10.37 -  I. Porter  /  J. Johnson
10.44 -  T. Neilly / R. Williams
10.51 -  R. Cutts  / J. Holmes
10.58 -  D. Wood / B. Taylor
11.05 -  J. Gibson / D. Barnes
11.12 -  W. Smith / L. Heyes
11.19 -  I. Hind / J. Tudor

Reserves:   G. Anderson, B. Bower, H. Wright, B. Bedford

Please note a couple of amendments to our Workington team.

Penrith Match Result

A good start to our season with a 5 - 3 win against our new opponents in good conditions.
This is the start of a busy month with two more matches plus three handicap qualifying competitions.

Sandpipers v Workington Team

Thursday 10th April

Dress: Jacket and Tie

10-30 -  B. Taylor  ( C ) / I. Porter
10-37 -  J. Dixon / J. Campbell
10-44 -  J. Holmes / W.Smith
10-51 -  H. Wright / S. Tonner
10-58 -  M. Mapleton / T. Neilly
11-05 -  K.Kempster / B. Bower
11-12 -  T. Davis / E. Harle
11-19 -  I. Hind / G. Waite
11-26 -  D. Wood / D. Barnes
11-33 -  J. Gibson / J. Tudor

Thursday 27th March

Not a day for standing about, especially when the rain started.
Robin Binny won with 37 points, five clear of (Mr Consistant) Ian Porter.
Next Tuesday is our first match of the season against Penrith.

Sandpipers v Penrith Match

Tuesday 1st April

Dress: Jacket and Tie

10.30 - G. Waite ( C ) / J. Holmes
10.37 - B. Taylor / G. Anderson
10.44 - T. Neilly / B. Bedford
10.51- R. Cutts / J. Campbell
10.58 - D. Wood / H. Wright
11.05 - T. Davis / J. Johnson
11.12 - J. Gibson / B. Bower
11.19 - R. Williams / M. Mapleton

Reserves:  W.Smith, M.Walton, J.Tudor, J.Dixon, L.Heyes.

Tuesday 25th March

Calm and mild for today's seventeen competitors.
Regular winner Ian Porter again took top spot with 36 points and equally successful David Low second with 34.
Sad news that Terry Stubbs was rushed to hospital the other day. No further information but our best wishes for his recovery and to his family who must be very worried.
Next Tuesday is our home match against Penrith and the team will be published here before the weekend.

Tuesday 18th March

Today's conditions were 'testing' rather than horrendous as forecast.
Sixteen tried their skills in the Bernard Keighley Bogey Competition and Grant Anderson's +1 made it a qualifier for club handicaps. Clive Milburn came second on count back with -2.
Our team for the home match v Penrith has been drawn and sheets are on the board for our matches against Workington and Carlisle.

Thursday 13th March

Today's chilly overcast conditions soon gave way to a pleasant afternoon.
John Gibson and myself took full advantage, both with 36 points and John with the better back nine.
Good to see Les Heyes, Clive Milburn and Harry Wright back in action this week.

Tuesday 11th March

Warm,sunny and calm for today's twenty contestants.
Ian Hind cleaned up on his first outing this year with 36 points followed by David Low with 35.
Early notice that next Tuesday is the Bernard Keighley Bogey Competition.

Tuesday 4th March

Not the wall to wall  sunshine promised for today but still quite pleasant.
Five teams of three set out for the Texas Scramble and Roy Williams, Joe Penrice and Bruce Bedford turned in the winning nett 66.4 from 1/10th combined handicaps.
The sheet for our first match against Penrith is on the notice board. Please make Joe's job easy by appending names as soon as possible.

Club Diary

I've had chance to look at the diary and two items should be noted.
The original date for the Club's ProAm has been moved from Thursday 22nd May to Thursday 24th July.
Our away matches are listed on page 41 so I suspect that our listed tee off time may not be reserved on those days and non competitors will have to book their own times.

Thursday 28th February

Tony Davis came out top of today's eleven hopefuls.
Next Tuesday starts our season with a Texas Scramble and our tee time reverts to summer's 11.00am.
The club diaries are now available from boxes of personally addressed envelopes in the foyer.

Man Flu

I'm under the weather just now so if anything interesting to Sandpipers crops up send it on and I'll publish it.

Tuesday 18th February

Well, 4 of us splashed round yesterday...Roy went off solo at 11.15, and Mike Walton, Charles Woodhouse and yours truly followed at around 11.40. We of course had excellent rounds, defying the wind and rain, and came home to rapturous applause and admiration from all the gallery.

All best

Jim Johnson

Relief from GUR

It's taken a while to get an official ruling on whether it is compulsory to remove 'stance' from GUR marked 'compulsory free drop' but Andy's enquiry produced this response.

Playing from Ground Under Repair
It is not mandatory to drop from ground under repair. You always have the option to play a ball from ground under repair unless the golf course or committee prohibits it.
If the ground under repair is mandatory it is usually to protect the course then yes you must take full relief that includes the stance
Hope this is clear
David (Hurst)
Competition Secretary

If you want to see what weather is coming our way try
http://earth.nullschool.net/#current/wind/surface/level/orthographic=-1.53,52.26,512

Silloth Convalescent Home

Today I received a letter of thanks for the £50 donation from the Matron of the nursing home, Mrs A Blair.
She gives an extensive explanation of how the "Patients' Amenities Fund" is used to enhance their stay in the home such as trips out, entertainment and handicrafts equipment.

Silloth Convalescent Home

On behalf of the Sandpipers I've arranged for a cheque of £50 to be donated to the patients' "Comforts Chest"  as the defending champion, for little treats to make the patients stay more comfortable.
I hope you all agree that the nursing home which supports the local community is an appropriate choice.

Tuesday 4th February

A nasty cold downpour put a damper on today's game. Brian Taylor and Jim Johnson tied for first place with 32 points, Jim winning on count back. Eighteen hopefuls set off.

Thursday 30th January

Only ten of us turned out to contribute to the Roger Cutts Benevolent fund.
Better remembered was the wine supplied by John Gibson to celebrate his 66th birthday.
Congratulations John.

Tuesday 28th January

A couple of showers spoiled an otherwise reasonable day for the time of year for the seventeen players.
No bother to Tom Neilly though with 39 points, the next nearest being Mike Mapleton with 34.
There's now enough water lying on the course to make a ball retriever an essential piece of kit.

Hi from Sunny Dubai

Hi David,
I apologise for the late information regarding me leaving Silloth golf club. As you will have noticed I did not play September onward not just at Silloth but also at Carlisle. It was because of long term shoulder problem. I have therefore decided just to keep only Carlisle as my club.
It had been a pleasure to have been a member at such top notch club. I will miss all the Sandpipers on Tuesdays and Thursdays get together. Please give my best regards to all of them and wish them all the best for 2014 season. 
Regards
Ejaz Malik 

Tuesday 21st January

Fifteen played today with only a few drops of rain on the last couple of holes. Roger Cutts managed a winning score of 36 followed by Geoff Scott with 35.
Rules Question:
With so much of the course marked 'GUR Compulsory Free Drop' what is the rule if your stance is within the GUR but the ball is outside it. Can you play it as it lies or do you have to drop the ball so that your feet are outside the GUR as well. Please cite any ruling as I can't find a definitive answer.

Eighty Years Young

Happy Birthday Stuart

Tuesday 14th January

Today's benign conditions attracted a field of nineteen to make Willie Smith the first winner of 2014 with 36 points and Tommy Neilly second with 32.
Joe Campbell is recovering well from his knee surgery, but John Tudor not quite back yet with his damaged knuckles. Hopefully my hearing will soon return to normal, recovering from today's round!

Amended Diary

Unfortunately, Appleby have advised they are struggling to raise a team this year for our annual home and away matches. Alternative matches have been arranged with Penrith GC and the dates are published at
http://www.sunside.co.uk/sandpipers/matches.htm

Thursday 2nd January

Only seven braved today's squalls.
Owing to his domestic circumstances, long standing member Bernard Keighley has decided not to renew his membership. I'm sure we all wish Bernard the best for the future.