A challenging time with the weather last week but Axe Cliff Golf Club did manage to keep open and play.

On Wednesday the club's sturdy Ladies battled against the wind over a shortened 15-hole stableford. Once they got back to the clubhouse they were paired

with an unknown partner secretly drawn by captain Anne Jarvis.

Pauline Willis and Stella Thompson won comfortably with 48 points leaving Margaret Kenchington and Paula Heasman in second place with 37. Janet Dack and Jo Hopgood picked up third place with 31 but you have to admire the way that everyone didn't give up.

On Friday, the early senior players, battered by wind and rain, were not so lucky and many decided to just have a chat and coffee before going home. The later ones were more fortunate and did venture out and enjoyed a lovely day with one short heavy shower to contend with.

I cannot tell how they did as they mistakenly thought the Stableford competition had been cancelled by captain John Hanna. John assured us all that the only thing he cancelled was his buggy. These things happen but John, in the future, has promised to avoid confusion if he decides to cancel any future competition. He will remain in the clubhouse and make everyone aware of his decision.

It's good to see that round one of the club's Handicap Knock-out Cup is well under way and has to be completed by November 25. Some early winners into round two produced some great games with John Purdy beating Richard Orsman, Stuart Mackie triumphed over young Gerry Turner and my favourite Welshman, Alan Morgan, must have had a battle to beat competitive Bill Polley, the club treasurer.

Another close match must have been Nigel Pritchard taking the scalp of Tony Strong but Tony can take comfort by knowing he won the Crossfield Cup played over the Summer months as an Ecletic where you can play so many designated medals and if you improve on any holes your final score can be amended less, of course, their handicap allowance.

Tony had a fine score of 61 (67-6) closely followed byPaul Curtin with 61.5 ( 68 -6.5). Mick Swann. not known for his medal prowess, can take pride taking third spot with 63 ( 75-12).

Halloween Sunday saw some better conditions but still a stiff breeze to overcome by the men's section in their First Winter League Round played in pairs. It was won by

K.Peters/M.Winterbottom with a solid 41 pts; second was A.Anning/J.Gait with 35; and third place was A.Taylor/L. Snell, also with 35. A good turnout enjoying the improved conditions.

On Friday Night the club held a very successful fun halloween quiz evening in the clubhouse which included an excellent curry and a chance of some great prizes all for just £10.

The winners were Chris and Elaine Gamwell and friends in their team of 6. Elaine, being Scottish, called the team "Scots Got No Idea". I was delighted to be asked to host by Clare and her catering team who also prepared the quiz, cooked the meal and ensured an excellent time for all.

I can assure you that Elaine's team did have an idea and well deserved their win. Unfortunately, their brave gamble to change their prize for a helicopter ride for the whole team didn't work out, but it will be carried forward to the next quiz, which will also have additional prizes to win. They need to book, when available for "Burns Night - Grab ya Sporan", already being planned by Clare and team. The idea is to carry forward any unclaimed prizes with additional new prizes until they are won.