White-hot start to new era at Leamington and County

In front of many of the club’s members he struck the inaugural shot on the new 18th hole, landing eight feet from the pin.

He was followed by the ladies’ captain Rosie Skilbeck who, not to be outdone, also safely found the centre of the new green.

Captain White then proceeded to lead his team to victory in the team competition which saw 30 quartets compete on the new course layout.

White was joined in the winning team by Barry Enoch, club president Martin Bayley and Jamie Pollock.

Prior to the competition, club chairman Allan Murdoch lauded the changes.

He said: “As the district’s housing development continues to spread southwards, the club took the brave decision to turn potential adversity to real advantage by enhancing our new course layout, while making the new neighbouring residents safe from the occasional wayward golf ball.

“We invested in the talent of world-renowned course architects Mackenzie & Ebert to design and deliver two new golf holes.

“Together with other significant changes, our new course is not only a fine challenge for golfers of all abilities but it has also never been better presented.”

Among other changes the club has made is the introduction of gender-free tees.

Club manager Bryan Frazer explained the reasoning behind the move.

“The course is now measured over three distances - gold, silver and bronze.

“This permits members and visitors to play competitive and social rounds over the course most suited to their ability and experience, irrespective of gender.

“Ladies’ and gentlemen’s tees are consigned to history.”