Norfolk Seniors enjoyed a strong preparation for their upcoming Southern Counties Foursomes Final as they beat Norfolk Ladies in a friendly match at Sheringham Golf Club.

NCGU Seniors will play on home soil at Swaffham Golf Club on September 18 and tuned up for the big day with a 4-1 victory over the county’s ladies, who themselves are bound for a national final in Yorkshire in the second half of September.

The latest Sheringham clashes were played out under Guildford Greensomes format with ex-Norfolk Seniors captain Iain Reid and county stalwart Jon Baker-Odlin leading the way in the top match. Eventually, they emerged 2-up victors from a hard-fought encounter with Harriet Allsebrook and Doris Thomas.

Ruby Patterson and Gemma du Feu hit back for Norfolk Ladies as they overcame Sheringham duo Mark Williamson and Jon Batten by a margin of 2 &1.

King’s Lynn pairing Mark Butt and Iain Yule soon had the Seniors back on track with a 3&2 win over Amelie Marling and Sharon Allen.

John Shapland marked his first appearance for the team by teaming up with Blair Ainslie for a comfortable 5&3 victory in their match with Jo Herd and Lilia Copeman.

And in the final game, another Norfolk Seniors debutant – Ian Rollett – partnered Steve Lloyd to a 3&1 triumph over Sue Henderson and Anita Booth.   

Non-playing Norfolk Seniors captain Gary Brayshaw said: “Both teams have an eye on upcoming county finals, so it was a good opportunity to assess our respective squads.

“The matches were played in a competitive manner with a great spirit and and some top quality on display from both teams.

“From a Norfolk Seniors’ perspective, it was pleasing to run out 4-1 winners. In particular, it was good to see John Shapland and Ian Rollett acquit themselves well and make winning debuts.

“Sincere thanks to Sheringham Golf Club for generously allowing us to stage the matches across the clifftop course, which presented a good challenge for all the players.

“We now turn our full attention to Swaffham and the Southern Counties Foursomes Final, which we’re really looking forward to.”