Kirkby Lonsdale Golf Club announces new team captains

Following a ceremonial drive off the first tee, retired software consultant Joe Bowman, 69, took helm as the new club captain.

The self-employed contractor in the telecoms industry who has been a member of Kirkby Lonsdale Golf Club for about five years, said: "I was attracted by the quality of the course and the friendly nature of the club.

“The club is on a good trajectory with membership increasing and visitor bookings strong.

"There is a programme of works planned for the course, including reworking bunkers and tee improvements.

"During my year of office as captain it is a matter of us continuing to do what we have been doing so well.”

Taking the reins as lady captain is Julia Taylor, 65, who is retired and lives at Kirkby Lonsdale.

She said: “I wanted an activity which had a social side and gave me a bit of exercise.

“We have an active ladies’ section at Kirkby Lonsdale with competitions throughout the season on Wednesdays and Saturdays and we also have three open competitions.

"We are always looking for new ladies to come and join the club.”

Ms Taylor, who plays for Kirkby Lonsdale in the ladies’ bronze team and won the club’s Lady Captain’s Trophy in 2019, has played for Cumbria Vets against Northumberland and Durham.

The seniors' division is now led by Jack Waite, 62, a retired police officer.

Mr Waite, who lives at Storth, was captain of the Greater Manchester Police A Division team for a year.

He said: “During my year in office I just want to build on the success of last year. We have lots of senior members and I want to make sure everyone who wants to play in the team gets a game."

More than 80 members participated in the Captains’ Drive-in event, with the festivities highlighted by the simultaneous start and finish, allowing members to meet socially after the event.

The event also raised funds for local charities.