A FORMER Broadway Golf Club captain has joined forces with his granddaughter to win the club’s prestigious John Freeman Open.

Arthur Gray, who was Broadway’s captain in 1987, and Emma Whiteley, from Huntercombe Golf Club in Henley-on-Thames, carded 41 points to triumph in the mixed greensomes stableford competition.

The event provides entrants with an opportunity to play for the annual trophy, first presented in 2002 in celebration of the 40 years which the late John Freeman spent as the club professional.

It attracted a packed field with players travelling from all corners of the country to take part.

Following torrential rain the previous day, the weather was better than expected and all competitors enjoyed their round.

There was never any doubting the winning team because Gray and Whiteley brought in an impressive 41 points to secure a clear lead.

Both were delighted to have been a part of such a special day for the club.

Taking a close second with 38 points were Broadway’s Phil Smith and his partner Jill Hopwood, who was visiting from Wallasey Golf Club.

Home team Jenny and Rod Brindley brought in a worthy third place with 37 points to leave Broadway’s ladies captain Brenda Corfield and her partner Phil Bennett fourth on a countback.

Meanwhile, the weather improved as the ladies competed in the England Golf Trust Stableford.

Despite the better day, there was a tricky wind to contend with and Vicky Watkins did well to lead the field with 34 points.

Pauline O’Hagan achieved a close second with 33 and Frances Friend was third with 31.

The following day, 90 Broadway men competed as Noel Hughes lifted the Stanley Bowl.

Mrs L Stanley, a member at Broadway before the Second World War, gave the award in 1964 in memory of her son.

The course continued to provide first-rate conditions for play as was demonstrated by Hughes who found superb form to win the trophy winner with 41 points.

Ian Weatherhead was second with 40 points, while Rob Lord and Ray Cordes battled it out for third and fourth places.

Both men scored 38 but Lord edged into third on a countback.