Tuesday 31st December

Seventeen played on the full course in spite of the heavy overnight frost. Clive Milburn finished the year on a high with a winning 36 and John Parker second with the best back nine of several 33s.
All the best to everyone for 2020.

Seasonal Greetings

Wishing all our members the very best for the forthcoming season and may all your handicaps be little ones.
Just a reminder that Boxing Day is reserved for a Club medal competition but both New Years Eve and 2nd January have our usual tee times booked for us.

Texas Scramble Report

Just the right number turned up so twenty seven made nine three balls with the last coming in as dusk fell. I've forgotten who came first but everyone got a prize ranging from whiskey to wine. I lost interest when I found what I thought was a good score (nett 66) came next to last. I'm informed that ex member Ivor Nelson wishes to pass on best wishes to everyone.
I am now pleased to announce that the worthy winners were Peter Taylor, David Frith and John Parker.

Xmas Social

Thirty one battled their way through rain and wind to enjoy an excellent meal together and a quiz compiled by Bob Finlinson. The Bottle Texas Scramble has been pencilled in for Tuesday 17th at our normal start time with prizes distributed in the lounge afterwards.

The use of emails to update members about today's arrangements proved successful but there was still a good number of phone calls to make sure everyone was informed. Please hand me your contact details on a piece of paper if you wish to be included as no email addresses are published on this blog or visible to anyone except the recipient.

Xmas Social Update

In view of the extremely poor weather forecast for Tuesday it has been thought prudent to postpone the scramble and bring forward the time of the meal to 12.30pm.
The scramble for bottle prizes will be held at our normal tee time on some more agreeable future occasion.
Should you now not wish to attend the social meal, please advise by Sunday afternoon so as not to inconvenience the caterer.
Regards
D.Wood

Tuesday 3rd December

Blinded by the winter sun on the way out and the last four ball of the twenty seven players struggling to get in before dark made for an interesting day. Tony Davis won with 38 points, one ahead of second placed John Wraight.
Thirty two have booked a meal for next Tuesday although not all will play golf. Those intending to go out should have their ball in by 8.45am at the latest, ready for the 9.00am Texas Scramble tee off.

Thursday 28th November

Nineteen took part today in distinctly cooler conditions. Tim Herbert won with 37 points, two better than second placed Clive Milburn.

Tuesday 26th November

Sixteen started but only fourteen thought it worth trying to finish in the poor conditions.
Three good scores of 36 decided on the back nine with Tony Davis just missing out on the cash, Tom Borthwick runner up and Colin Campbell winning.

Thursday 21st November

Fifteen faced the Beast from the East today. Roy Willams won with 33 points, myself second with 31.
The Xmas dinner list is filling up nicely but the more the merrier.

Blind Cricketers' Charity

Remember we donated old golf balls via Brian Taylor for fund raising? Two events raised £350 by placing a stump in the middle of the pitch and inviting contestants to pitch balls as close as they could. The events were at Wigton for sighted and Leicester for visually impaired with someone standing by the stump ringing a bell.
The organiser has written a charming letter to Brian thanking everyone.

Tuesday 19th November

The ground frost didn't clear away quickly enough so fourteen played off the green tees to winter greens using half Sandpiper handicaps. Joe Penrice won with 40 points and David Frith runner up with 38.

Thursday 14th November

The cold east wind persisted but sunshine made conditions bearable. We played on summer greens even though a scraper wouldn't clear the ice off my windscreen at 8.30am. Eighteen took part with Tim Herbert and Malcolm Platts both having 33 points, Tim winning with the better back nine.
The menu for our Xmas bash is on the notice board for everyone to make their selection, please do this ASAP.

Tuesday 12th November

A stiff north east wind held scoring down for twenty two players today, Joe Penrice winning with 36 points and myself second with the best back nine of three 33s.
Welcome to Tony Martin who is just getting back into golf and had his first trip out with us today.

Tuesday 5th November

Two exceptional scores today in spite of a stiff east wind. Eddie Varah won with 40 points, David Low second with 38. Fairway mats are in use now and as a society we agreed to support their use to protect the course.

Thursday 31st October

This morning felt like the start of winter but quite pleasant as the day wore on. Gary Blackley won with 40 points followed by Peter Taylor with 36. Seventeen started with one retirement due to injury.
As from tomorrow all Club handicaps remain static until the start of next season, reductions will apply only for official competitions and scores over 40 points. All winter Club competitions will be played off full winter handicaps even to temporary greens. Our system remains unchanged.
The voluntary use of fairway mats also applies and as a society we agreed to comply to protect the course.
As from next Tuesday our reserved tee time is 10.50am.

Tuesday 29th October

A stiff breeze from the east kept the scores down but Gerry Fisher and Gary Blackley were the best of twenty five with 37 and 36 points respectively.
Don't forget that from next week our start time reverts to our winter hours of 10.50am kick off.

Thursday 24th October

Nineteen played in fairly decent conditions. Bruce Bedford won with 37 points, Gerry Fisher second with 34. Sad to report that Alan Heywood has decided to give up playing due to mobility problems but David McCrum is responding to treatment and would welcome a visit from his friends if possible on Elm B ward.
Our winter 10.50am start times commence on 1st November.

Tuesday 22nd October

Seemed like the start of winter today with a cold wind. Joe Penrice was the best of twenty three with 40 points and Joe Holmes second with 37.
It may be next week that our start time moves forward to 10.50am.

Thursday 17th October

Today turned out quite pleasant and thirteen took part. Malcolm Platts won with 36 points and John Parker second with 33.
Just a reminder that our £5 membership fee became due at the AGM.

David McCrum

I'm informed that David has been taken to hospital with serious but as yet unspecified ailments. Our thoughts are with him and his family and at this time he only wishes to have Mrs McCrum and his daughter as visitors.

Tuesday 15th October

Thirty took part in today's greensomes competition with David Low generously volunteering to mark  the odd couple's card. Mike Mapleton and Bob Finlinson claimed the Brindley Salver with 45 points in ideal conditions.

Tuesday 8th October

Five teams of four survived 35mph winds to compete in today's Texas Scramble. Fortunately the rain held off and Tony Davis, Tony Sher, Colin Campbell and myself came home in first place with nett 64.3. Next Tuesday we play the rescheduled greensomes.

Thursday 3rd October

Woolly hats required this morning. New member Gary Blackley had his first game with us today, an experience he is unlikely to forget. Twenty two took part with Jim Johnson first (35) and Ian Hind second (33).
Next Tuesday is a Texas Scramble.

AGM

Unfortunately, weather conditions closed the course so the Brindley Salver Greensomes has been rescheduled for Tuesday 15th October.
Our AGM went smoothly and included Brian Taylor's written Secretary's report and Jim Johnson's Treasurer's report (both presented by Jim) being well received.
The trophy presentation was well attended and conducted by Joe Campbell. Photographs will be included when I update our website after our fixtures have been confirmed for 2020.
This morning highlighted the need to be able to inform members quickly of situations that may save unnecessary travel, the most realistic method being email unless a free bulk text service can be suggested. Anyone wishing to be included should give me their email address privately to observe online security.

AGM and Prize Presentation

In view of the poor weather forecast for tomorrow, the formal proceedings will commence between 1.00pm and 1.30pm for those who don't wish to travel to play in rain if it arrives, and allow those who play in the competition sufficient time to complete the round.
Please pass this information to as many Sandpipers as possible

Brampton Match Result

Some very close results today but with the help of a bit of wind and occasional showers we managed to reverse the 5 - 3 score we suffered at Brampton.

Tuesday 24th September

Today turned out much better than the forecast with a bit of drizzle coming in on the last three holes for the twelve who took part. Sandy Tonner returned one of the better scores this year, 41 points which was six points better than second placed Colin Campbell.
Congratulations to this year's Sandpiper Champion David Frith who played Bob Finlinson in the final today.
This Thursday we play our home rearranged match against Brampton and next Tuesday is a 9.00am kick off for the Brindley Salver followed by our AGM.

Thursday 19th September

Another glorious day with sixteen enjoying the sunshine. My 35 points was just enough to clinch first place over Peter Taylor's 34. Good news that Roy Williams and Willie Smith are in contact with Andrew Edwards who seems to have perked up and David McCrum, although not able to play yet has chauffeured (suffered) Alan Proud in a buggy. Mike Mapleton also made a welcome return last Tuesday.
Next Tuesday David Frith and Bob Finlinson hope to play the final of our championship and next Thursday we play our rearranged match against Brampton.

Sandpipers v Brampton Team

Thursday 26th September

Dress: Smart Casual

10.30 - D Wood (C ) / D Frith
10.38 - T Borthwick / C Campbell
10.46 - J Holmes / M Whelan               
10.54 - T Herbert / T Neilly
11.02 - T Davis / R Cutts
11.10 - P W Taylor / J Johnson
11.18 - R Williams / I Porter
11.26 - C Milburn / W Smith

Reserves: None

Tuesday 17th September

Good weather doesn't always guarantee good scores as only seven of today's twenty six players scored more than 30 points. Eddie Varah won the George Wright Trophy with 38 points and will nominate his choice for a charity donation of £100 in due course. Multi winner David Frith came second with 36.

Penrith 8 Man Team Result

The Sandpiper team (including 3 late substitutions) came a very creditable 4th out of thirteen. Jonathon Nixon received a bottle of whiskey for his second placed 38 points and Eddie Varah holed one of only three two's for which he received a thick sealed brown envelope.

Saxons v Celts Match Result

Captain of the Celts Brian Taylor graciously conceded defeat (for the third time in a row) and presented the trophy to an equally gracious David Frith.
Next Tuesday  is the last opportunity to win an individual trophy this year competing for the George Wright Trophy.

Thursday 5th September

David Frith and Jonathon Nixon both had 36 points in today's blustery conditions, David taking pole position with a better back nine. Next Tuesday we have the annual Saxons v Celts battle and Wednesday the eight man team entry at Penrith.

Thursday 29th August

Twelve intrepid ! members face a howling gale today with David Low's 27 taking first prize (£7.20p) and a two shot penalty. Bruce Bedford came second. For those travelling to Morpeth on Sunday, Warwick Road in Carlisle is closed for the Cumbria Run but the bypass and road to Brampton via the airport are clear.

Penrith Match Result

We managed to hold Penrith to a four all draw on their own turf in blustery changeable conditions. The course was in quite good condition, especially considering the problems of heavy and persistent rainfall.

Tuesday 27th August

A pleasant day for the twenty seven who played for the Bob Saunders Cup won by David Frith with 42 points. Martin Whelan pipped Steve Buck for second place with 39 won on the back nine.
Congratulations to Bruce Bedford for his section win in last Thursday's Seniors open and well done Roger Cutts and Willie Smith for checking and recording all the scores, helping to make the competition a success.

Penrith v Sandpipers Team

Wednesday 28th August

Dress: Smart Casual

09.30 - D Frith ( C ) / B Taylor
09.38 - T Davis / G Fisher
09.46 - P W Taylor /  G McKellar                       
10.54 - R Cutts / J Holmes
10.02 - R Williams / B Bedford
10.10 - D Wood / G Anderson
10.18 - M Whelan / J Johnson
10.26 - I Porter / A Proud

Reserves: None

Last year Penrith arranged a shotgun start to enable the final three pairings to finish earlier so please arrive in plenty of time in case they do the same this year.

Tuesday 20th August

Twenty nine turned up to play for the Jimmy Banks Trophy in conditions that improved throughout the day. Tim Herbert turned in an impressive 44 points, well ahead of second placed David Frith with 37.
This Thursday the course is reserved for the Seniors Open and Brian Taylor has requested that last year's trophy winners return them to himself or the Secretary's office for engraving.
On a lighter note, statistics show that the average club handicap for Sandpipers is 18.

Penrith Match Result

Dad's Army could only win half a point in our match today which included a couple of squally showers. The rematch at Penrith is on Wednesday 28th.
England Wimmin have claimed the course on Thursday so our next meeting is on Tuesday for the J. Banks Trophy.

Thursday 8th August

Just sixteen played in ideal conditions. Eddie Varah won with 34 points and Clive Milburn second with 33. Don't forget that the course is closed next Thursday for England Golf.

Penrith Invitation Team

The following are selected to represent the Sandpipers at the above event.

Tony Davis, Eddie Varah, Tom Borthwick, Jonathan Nixon

David Frith, Gilmour McKellar, Clive Milburn, Joe Holmes.

Per Brian Taylor

Tuesday 6th August

Twenty players got round virtually unscathed apart from the strong west wind although local roads had standing water by the time we set off home from the club. Clive Milburn won the Carrick Trophy with 35 points and David Low second on countback with 34.
Next Tuesday is our home match against Penrith.

Thursday 1st August

Martin Whelan posted one of the best scores we've seen for a while. 42 points left my second placed 36 way behind. I've just renewed the handicap sheet and several members club handicaps hadn't been updated.
Next Tuesday we play for the Carrick Trophy.
Brian Taylor informs me that we don't yet have the full quota of eight players for the Penrith Invitation Team Open. The sheet is on the notice board so please append your name quickly if you wish to play.

Sandpipers v Penrith Team

Tuesday 13th August

Dress: Smart Casual

10.30 - D Frith  ( C ) / E Varah
10.38 - T Davis / J Johnson
10.46 - J Gilfillan / J Holmes               
10.54 - P W Taylor / B Bedford
11.02 - R Williams / R Cutts
11.10 - D Wood / T Borthwick
11.18 - J C Nixon / T Neilly
11.26 - B Taylor / M Whelan

Reserves: C Milburn, G Fisher, C Campbell

Tuesday 30th July

Nineteen took a chance that the thunder and lightning wouldn't come. Apart from a couple of small showers it was quite a reasonable day. Three nett 71s were recorded for the Ronnie Thompson Trophy medal competition with David Low taking top place and Gerry Fisher second.
Next Tuesday we have the Carrick Trophy competition.

Tuesday 23rd July

Fifteen played in glorious conditions, Joe Penrice winning with 36 points and Tony Davis second with 33. Next Tuesday we play our only medal competition, the Ronnie Thompson Memorial Trophy.

Powfoot Match Result

Difficult conditions with a strong wind blowing straight across the course but we did manage an away draw, four games each.

Tuesday16thJuly

Twenty seven played for the J.Eilbeck Trophy in bright and breezy conditions. Two exceptional scores, 41 and 40 from Tony Davis and Ian Hind respectively taking first and second places. Next Monday is our away match against Powfoot.

Powfoot v Sandpipers Team

Monday 22nd July

Dress: Smart Casual

11.00 -  G Anderson (C) / D Frith
11.08 - J C Nixon / J Campbell
11.16 - J Wraight / B Taylor                   
11.24 - R Williams / C Campbell
11.32 - R Cutts / D Wood
11.40 - G Fisher / L Hopkins
11.48 - T Neilly / B Bedford
11.56 - M Wigham / I Porter

Reserve: J.Gibson

Seascale Match Result

We could only manage a four all draw against strong opposition, even on our own turf.
Next Tuesday is the J.Eilbeck Trophy competition and the following Monday our away match against Powfoot

Lost 3 wood

Jim Gilfillan lost his club between the 13th and 14th on Tuesday 9th.
If anyone knows of it's whereabouts please let him know asap.

Tuesday 9th July

Eighteen played in light drizzle and a strong breeze.Gerry Fisher won with 35 points and myself second with 33.
On Thursday we play our home match against Seascale and there is currently uncertainty about whether and how long predicted thunderstorms might affect things if at all.

Thursday 4th July

David Barnes didn't choose the kindest of conditions for his 2019 debut and the strength of the wind was reflected in the scores. Of the fourteen that played David Low won with 34 points and Gilmour McKellar second with 32.

Sandpipers v Seascale Team

Thursday 11th July

Dress: Smart Casual

10.30 -  B Taylor ( C ) / J Holmes
10.38 -  D Wood / J Johnson
10.56 - P W Taylor / D Frith                   
11.04 - J C Nixon / T Neilly
11.12 - B Bedford / W Smith
11.20 - L Hopkins / J Campbell
11.28 - R Cutts / G Fisher
11.36 - C Milburn / G Anderson

Reserves: T.Borthwick, E.Varah

Brampton Match Result

Wall to wall sunshine for our away match. Unfortunately our result didn't match the weather going down by five games to three. We got off to a flying start being six down after six although we did recover slightly to lose six and four. Our opponents would have had 48 points in a 4BBB.
Next Thursday is our home match against Seascale.

Tuesday 2nd July

A great day for a game of golf with twenty four taking part. Clive Milburn came out on top with 38 points followed by Gilmour McKellar with 37.
We also gained John Parker as a new member.
Tomorrow is our away match against Brampton and a reminder that the next round of our championship must be played by the 31st.

Tuesday 25th June

Played as a club handicap qualifying competition in a strong east wind, Steve Buck won the Anderson 5 Clubs Trophy with 33 points on countback from second placed Tony Sher.
The postponed home match against Brampton has been rearranged for Thursday 26th September.
I'm informed that Andrew Edwards is very poorly and I'm sure we all wish him a speedy recovery.

Powfoot Match Result

A comprehensive 6.5 to 1.5 win today in a 20mph westerly wind although the threatening rain kept away.
Next Tuesday we play the T. Anderson 5 Clubs competition.

Coast Road Now Open

From Border News and the Times and Star the road has reopened at long last.

Brampton v Sandpipers Team

Wednesday 3rd July

Dress: Smart Casual

09.30 -  D Wood ( C ) / D Frith
09.38 - J Campbell / G Fisher
09.46 - B Taylor / E Varah                       
09.54 - R Cutts / J Gilfillan
10.02 - L Hopkins / B Bedford
10.10 - T Davis / P W Taylor
10.18 - J Holmes / G Anderson
10.26 - W Smith / T Borthwick

Reserve: I.Porter

Tuesday 18th June

Thanks go to Bob Finlinson who took his ball out of the draw leaving thirteen drawn pairs to compete for the Walter's Cup Greensomes. Played in warm, sunny and breezy conditions Tony Sher and Joe Holmes came out on top with 40 points.
On Thursday we have our home match against Powfoot.

Sandpipers v Powfoot team

Thursday 20th June

Dress: Smart Casual

10.30 -  G Anderson (C) / J Johnson
10.38 - J C Nixon / W Smith
10.46 - D Frith / T Neilly                         
10.54 - J Holmes / P W Taylor
11.02 - D Wood / G Fisher
11.10 - C Milburn / E Varah
11.18 - L Hopkins / J. Campbell
11.26 - B Taylor / T Davis
Reserves: R Cutts, M Whigham, T Herbert, J Gibson, S Buck

Brampton Match

In view of the dodgy conditions forecast for tomorrow the match has been postponed to be arranged for some future date.

Tuesday 11th June

Draughty but dry for the Norton Cup competition today. Twenty two entered, John Wraight winning with 36 points and Peter Taylor second with 35. Doubts about weather conditions for our match against Brampton have receded so it's still on.
David Barnes hopes to be back with us soon after a long absence during which he has had his ears and eyes fixed.

Sandpipers v Brampton Team

Thursday 13th June

Dress: Smart Casual.

10.30 - D Wood ( C ) / P W Taylor
10.38 - G Anderson / E Varah
10.46 - J Campbell / B Taylor                 
10.54 - J Holmes / J C Nixon
11.02 - J Gilfillan / R Cutts
11.10 - W Smith  / T Borthwick
11.18 - T Neilly / G Fisher
11.26 - C Milburn / D Frith

Reserves: J Johnson, B Bedford, T Herbert

Carlisle Match Result

Three of our pairings put up valiant efforts but others were seriously outgunned, our 10 handicap opponent went round in two over par gross hence a 5 - 3 loss and 9 -7 over the two legs. Things are busy over the next two weeks with away days and the bank holiday and course closed next week.

Tuesday 14th May

Shirt sleeves and sun cream weather today. Bruce Bedford won the Tom Sowerby trophy with 39 points, Martin Whelan pipped on the back nine. Only twenty three played possibly because of our match against Workington yesterday.
Next Monday is our away match against Carlisle.

Workington Match Result

A poor result today as Workington were too strong on their own turf. At least it was sunny and the food was good.

Thursday 9th May

Tommy Neilly's 34 was the best of thirteen modest scores today. Gerry Fisher was second with 33.
Next Monday is our match against Workington and Tuesday we play for the Sowerby Memorial Trophy.

Carlisle v Sandpipers Team

Monday 20th May

Dress: Smart Casual

09.30 - T Davis ( C ) / D Frith
09.38 - B Taylor / J Gilfillan
09.56 - R William / G McKellar 
10.04 - P W Taylor / M Mapleton
10.12 - J Johnson / J Gibson
10.20 - D Wood / J Campbell
10.28 - R Cutts / W Smith
10.36 - J C Nixon / B Bedford

Reserves: J Holmes, T Neilly

Tuesday 7th May

No complaints about the weather today and some better than average scores for the John Todd Shield.
Tom Borthwick won with 41 points and David Frith second with 38.

Thursday 2nd May

Just thirteen again today. One short shower wasn't enough to spoil the day, Roy Williams winning with 37 points over Gilmour McKellar on count back.

Seascale Match Result

A much better result than last year with a four all draw played in ideal conditions. Misreading the greens and putting seemed to be the reason for a couple of games being lost.
Next Tuesday we play for the John Todd Shield.

Sellafield Traffic Update

Here is the official interpretation of the traffic situation. Apparently the delays are due to work to rule by security staff who are checking every vehicle entering the site.
https://www.traffic-update.co.uk/traffic/egremont.asp
Those who remember the late Terry Stubbs will be saddened to hear his wife Doreen recently passed away.

Workington v Sandpipers Team

Monday 13th May

Dress: Smart Casual

09.30 J Johnson ( C ) / L Hopkins
09.38 D Frith / J Gilfillan
09.56 R Cutts / M Mapleton                         
10.04 J Campbell / C Campbell
10.12 G Anderson / W Smith
10.20 J Holmes / A Thompson
10.28 G Fisher / T Sher
10.36 T Davis / P W Taylor
10.44 J C Nixon / I Porter
10.52 D Wood / G McKellar

Reserve: E.Varah

Thursday 25th April

Jim Johnson was today's clear winner with 41 points and shot himself in the foot with a five shot handicap reduction as only twelve put in the kitty. Tony Davis had a more sensible 35 point second place. I'm informed that pickets involved in a Sellafield dispute are causing a half hour traffic delay which may affect those playing in our Seascale match on Tuesday.

Seascale v Sandpipers Team (Revised)

Tuesday 30th April

Dress: Smart Casual

09.30 - R Williams ( C ) / G McKellar
09.38 - T Borthwick / C Campbell
09.56 - J Gilfillan / J C Nixon                       
10.04 - B Taylor / J Holmes
10.12 - D. Wood / G Fisher
10.20 - T Davis / R Cutts
10.28 - M Mapleton / P W Taylor
10.36 - D Frith / J Campbell
Reserves: I Porter, G Anderson, W Smith   

You are expected to play and attend the after proceedings.

If circumstances alter inform Joe immediately.

He will contact the first available substitute.

Tuesday 23rd April

Tony Davis won the George Doughty Cup with 36 points beating Lynn Hopkins on count back. Twenty four took part in a strong east wind. The new score cards are not the easiest to mark so please make sure your marker knows how before commencing play.
For those who haven't seen the advice given by the Club Secretary, when preferred lies finish there is no relief off sand patches.

Thursday 18th April

Unable to play myself, I see from the results sheet that seventeen played with Clive Milburn winning and G.McKellar runner up.
Next Tuesday we play for the George Doughty Cup.

Seascale v Sandpipers Team

Tuesday 30th April

Dress: Smart Casual

09.30 - R Williams ( C ) / G McKellar
09.38 -T Borthwick / C Campbell
09.56 -J Gilfillan / M Whelan                         
10.04 -B Taylor / J Holmes
10.12 -D. Wood / G Fisher
10.20 -T Davis / R Cutts
10.28 - M Mapleton / P W Taylor
10.36 -E Varah / J Campbell
Reserves: D Frith, J C Nixon, I Porter, G Anderson, W Smith

Tuesday 16th April

Joe Holmes and Brian Taylor combined to win the John Cooper Trophy today. Eleven pairs played in breezy conditions.

Thursday 11th April

Surprisingly only thirteen turned out for today's sunshine. Jim Gilfillan won with 35 points and David Low second with 33.
Just to remind everyone, next Tuesday's Cooper Trophy is a drawn pairs combined Stableford score played off full handicap therefore individual club handicaps will be affected as well as a two shot reduction of Sandpiper handicap for the winning pair.
More news on the Silloth road closure. Notices at both ends say the road is closed with diversions however all the closure signs between Dubmill, Salta and Mawbray have gone with new ones limiting access to 3.5 tonnes.

Carlisle Match Result

Once again we could only manage a draw on our own turf at four games each. Part of the problem might have been the bitter wind hitting us from the east that made the back nine difficult.
Next Tuesday we start our qualifying competitions with the John Cooper Trophy.

Workington Match Result

We carry a five games each draw forward to our away match at Workington. Played in cold, dry and windy conditions led by captain of the day Brian Taylor.
Hopefully we will have better luck in our home match against Carlisle next Tuesday.
John Gibson's surgery was successful and he now joins our bionic section.

Silloth Road Closure Fines

Having recently been stopping traffic using the Dubmill - Salta - Mawbray rat run I'm informed that the police now intend to prosecute anyone passing the closure signs with an indicated fine of £50.
Please advise everyone you know who might be tempted to use this route.

Tuesday 2nd April

Two seasons in one day with sun and sleet for the thirty one who entered the Championship Qualifier.
Eddie Varah claimed pole position with 39 points, David Frith second with 38. The sixteenth qualifier came from the best three of five 28s. The knockout draw sheet will be on the notice board on Thursday.
I'm informed the Alan Heywood has successfully come through complicated hip surgery but isn't likely to be able to play for a while.

Sandpipers v Carlisle Team

Tuesday 9th April

Dress: Smart Casual  

10.30 - T Davis ( C ) / R Williams
10.38 - J C Nixon / D Wood
10.46 - M Whelan / E Varah                     
10.54 - J Campbell / C Milburn
11.02 - P W Taylor / D Frith
11.10 - C Campbell / B Bedford
11.18 - M Mapleton / G Mc Kellar
11.26 - B Taylor / T Borthwick
Reserves: C. Woodhouse, G Anderson , J Gilfillan

Sandpipers v Workington Team

Thursday 4th April

Dress: Smart Casual  

10.30 - B. Taylor ( C ) / G McKellar
10.38 - T Davis / J Campbell
10.46 - J Gilfillan / I Porter                       
10.54 - C Milburn / W Smith
11.02 - D. Wood / G Anderson
11.10 - G Fisher / T Neilly
11.18 - R Williams / P W Taylor
11.26 - M Mapleton / E Varah
11.34 - M Whelan / J Holmes
11.42 - J C Nixon / C Campbell
Reserves: None

Thursday 28th March

Joe Holmes won by a country mile today with 37 points, seven ahead of second placed Robin Binny.
We have just found out that the course will be closed on Tuesday 28th until Thursday 30th May to accommodate the ladies county championship which follows the bank holiday weekend so we'll have to find something else to do that week.

Tuesday 26th March

38 points was the best of twenty six scores in today's cold breezy conditions, David Low winning and David Frith second with 34 on count back against Gerry Fisher.
Next Tuesday is our Championship Qualifier and the Club should make a decision this evening regarding the use of fairway mats in handicap qualifying competitions.
I'm told that David McCrum is having further health problems and John Gibson is going for surgery on his hand. I'm sure we wish them both well.

Thursday 21st March

Not a high scoring day in spite of the calmer conditions. Joe Holmes' better back nine put Jim Gilfillan into second place, both having 32. Seventeen played.
Joe Campbell has a new Sandpipers SHIRT in stock (size M) for anyone who missed placing their order or requires a spare.

Tuesday 19th March

A cold stiff breeze took the edge off the pleasure for the twenty five who played in today's Texas Scramble but fortunately we all finished just before the drizzle started. Organiser Brian Taylor with Edward Harle and Tom Borthwick took the money with nett 621/3. A quick check shows that everyone has renewed their subscription for 2019. 

Thursday 14th March

Unfortunately I believed the weather forecast and chickened out but twelve didn't and played in windy conditions. Tony Davis won with 31 points and Peter Taylor second with 29. Both are low handicappers and even lower now.
I heard today that Alan Heywood is going through a rough patch health wise which is why we haven't seen him for a while.
Next Tuesday is the date for the postponed Texas Scramble.

Tuesday 12th March

Fourteen trusted the weather forecast and "enjoyed" playing in the Bernard Keighley Cup bogey competition. Bob Finlinson won with -1 and Jonathon C-Nixon second with -2. As it was a qualifying competition two players had their club handicaps adjusted upwards.
Club 2019 diaries are now available from the foyer and please note that we are now on summer hours, play commencing at 11.00am.

Thursday 7th March

Robin Binny continued his winning streak with 33 points playing into a strong northerly wind. New member Martin Whelan came second with 31 and the remaining eleven with some pretty dire scores.
It appears the the highways authorities are to postpone resurfacing work on the Aspatria to Silloth road so hopefully they will publish their schedule soon.

More Road Closures

Bruce informs me that the road between Westnewton and Silloth will be closed from Wednesday 13th March for thirteen days which means travelling via Waverton, Waver Bridge and Abbeytown from the west. Another crappy rat run, the alternative is travelling to Wigton. More information when it becomes available.

Tuesday 5th March

Surprisingly, ten turned up today and the weather brightened enough to get sixteen holes played.
Brian Taylor has suggested we play our Texas Scramble on Tuesday 19th to allow the unsettled weather to clear. Please notify everyone you know who doesn't have access to this blog.

Thursday 28th February

Perhaps the morning fog put people off but apart from a cool breeze, conditions were fine for the twelve who turned up. A few lucky putts gave me 38 points and a four shot cut. Robin Binny came second with 33.

Tuesday 26th February

A glorious day with twenty six enjoying the conditions. Joe Penrice won with 38 points, Mike Mapleton second with 34. Everyone was delighted that Geoff Scott made the effort to attend although not fit enough to join us on the course yet. Next Tuesday starts our competition calendar with a Texas Scramble.

Maryport / Silloth Road Closure

Only a couple of yards separates the road from a big drop onto the shore due to recent erosion so it looks as if it will take a few weeks to reopen. The road on the Silloth side of Dubmill Farm has closure notices in place but is accessible as a busy single lane rat run and links to Mawbray to Salta.
Alternative routes are via Aspatria and Westnewton or via Edderside to link up with the Aspatria road.

Thursday 21st February

A bit dreary today but well worth playing. Peter Taylor thought so having scored 40 points, six points clear of second placed Eddie Varah. Seventeen turned out.
Brian Taylor asked me to inform everyone that he has enough balls now and thanks those who contributed.

Tuesday 19th February

Twenty played in cold but fine conditions, with a wee breeze. Scoring was good with three 37s, Peter Taylor being the unlucky one to miss out on second place to Brian Taylor on the back 3. Winner on the back 9 was Gerry Fisher.
Thanks for all golf balls received so far, about 170. Any more available would still be welcome.
There are 8 names up so far for the Penrith Invitation Day, so it looks as if we will be entering a team. A new list will go up nearer the time from which a draw for the 8 members will be done, if necessary.
Brian

computer repair required

Unfortunately my laptop has died. Can anyone recommend a competent repair shop, preferably in the west? Reply to dcw@sunside.co.uk

Thursday 14th February

The day improved as the wind dropped. Grant Anderson won with 34 points on count back against Clive Milburn.
Joe will be placing the order for Sandpiper shirts and sweaters on 1st March so please add your name to the sheet asap to avoid disappointment.

Tuesday 12th February

Eight wimps out of the fifteen starters cut the round short when the wind driven drizzle showed no signs of easing. Tony Davis finished miles in the lead with 32 and Eddie Varah second with 26.

Thursday 7th February

A bonus today as the foul weather failed to materialise and eighteen took a chance whether we would play or not. Ian Hind returned an excellent winning 40 points and Robin Binny second with 36.
Brian Taylor requests our support for a summer charity event by providing any old golf balls (around 200 in total). Not for golf but pitching by hand towards a post. Nearest wins.

Tuesday 5th February

Luckily the heavy rain didn't start until after all sixteen had finished and the period of light rain with no wind wasn't too inconvenient. Bob Finlinson had the better back nine of 43 points to put Tommy Neilly into second place.

Thursday 31st January

Unfortunately a "man" cold prevented me playing today but I'm informed that thirteen played in frosty conditions from white tees to temporary greens. Two people were reckless with their handicaps, Bruce Bedford being cut eight shots for his winning 46 points and Ian Porter five shots for his 42 points.
A list is on the notice board for those wishing to play in the Penrith Team Invitation event. The cost per individual has risen to £20. As our treasurer is obliged to pay for the entry in advance it is essential that enough wish to play and prepared to pay for their place in the team.

Lochmaben Away Day

Joe has organised the annual social trip for Wednesday 22nd May with bacon butty and coffee on arrival and two course meal after golf.
Waiting for final price from the caterer but the total will probably be between £42 and £45 including round of golf.
20 places are available for Sandpipers and friends. A sheet is up for names and entry should be accompanied with a £10 deposit.

Thursday 24th January

The heavy mist lifted just in time for fifteen of us to play on a shortened frosty course playing off white tees (mainly on the main tee area) to temporary greens. As this format didn't meet any of the criteria for handicap adjustments it was decided to play under our normal Sandpiper rules and the winning scores reflected how much easier it was to score. Tony Sher won with 45 points and now plays off 15 instead of 22. Gilmour McKellar suffered a similar fate with 43 taking him from 15 to 10.

Tuesday 22nd January

Temperatures just above freezing but fifteen doughty (?) Sandpipers took advantage of occasional sun and little wind. Johnathon C-Nixon won with 37 points followed by myself with 36.

Thursday 17th January

Bright and cool again today. Eighteen played, David Frith winning with 34 and Peter Taylor second with 33.

Tuesday 15th January

Too chilly for standing about today but twenty played. Welcome to new member Tom Borthwick who immediately got a return on his subscription by coming second with 36 on countback to David Frith. Good news is that Geoff Scott has managed to play a few holes at Workington but unfortunately David McCrum is still struggling and using crutches.

Tuesday 8th January

Another fine day attracted 21 players with Tony Davis having a decisive 40 points win and Joe Campbell second with 36.

Thursday 3rd January

First winner in 2019 is Colin Campbell with 38 points and Gerry Fisher second with 36. Eighteen played in calm conditions.