FROM THE EDITOR
Welcome to Issue 17 of The Staffordshire Golfer – and what a summer of golf it has been so far across the County and beyond. From local success to major championship appearances, this issue is packed with stories that highlight depth of talent, commitment and community spirt we have here in Staffordshire.
In this issue we continue our journey through the County in the Club 47 series, turning our attention to the next three clubs on the list. Whether you’re a long-time member of the Union or planning your next round, each course offers a unique opportunity and something that golf in Staffordshire prides itself on.
A major highlight this summer was the return of LIV Golf UK to JCB Golf & Country Club, and what an
event it was. We provide a full rundown of the action, both inside the ropes and behind the scenes, including a piece on what the volunteers got up to as they rubbed shoulders with the stars of the league.
We also shine a spotlight on the Staffordshire Amateur Championship, where Alfie Turner put together a sensational opening round of 5-under-par on his way to claiming his first success in the competition. We celebrate his win and take a look at other competition results from across the County, which serves as a great reminder of all the talent coming through the ranks.
We also turned our attention back to the professional game and spoke to Jason Timmis, caddy to
THE TEAM AT STAFFORDSHIRE GOLFER
Editor and Production: Medi8 Golf – nathan@medi8ltd.co.uk
Editorial research: Gareth Shaw – secretary@staffsgolf.org.uk
Editorial research: Michael Entecott – michael.entecott@staffsgolf.org.uk
MESSAGE FROM THE COUNTY SECRETARY
The last two months have been truly memorable for golf in Staffordshire. From local club competitions to major international events, our county has once again shown why it
is such a special place for the game. A real highlight was welcoming LIV Golf to JCB Golf & Country Club – a world-class event right here on our doorstep. The course looked immaculate, the standard of golf was outstanding, and it was a fantastic showcase of our county’s ability to host golf on the global stage.
But none of this – from grassroots initiatives to elite competitions –would be possible without the amazing volunteer support across Staffordshire. Week in, week out, our volunteers give their time, expertise, and passion to ensure events run smoothly, juniors are encouraged, and members feel
Aaron Rai. Jason shares a fascinating insight into a season that saw Rai make the cut at all four majors – an achievement that marks a significant step forward for one of Staffordshire’s most promising talents.
We were also proud to support the Clubs for Africa appeal, a fantastic initiative where with your help, we have made a real difference, but more on that inside.
As always, thank you for supporting The Staffordshire Golfer. Please share this issue with your fellow members, friends and anyone who shares a love for the game.
welcome. Their contribution is the heartbeat of Staffordshire golf, and I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to every single one of them.
Here’s to building on this momentum and continuing to make golf in Staffordshire something we can all be proud of.
Gareth Shaw County Secretary, Staffordshire Union of Golf Clubs
IN THE CLUBHOUSE
Enville Golf Club were great hosts of the 2025 Staffordshire Junior Championship.
Congratulations to Harry Johnson on receiving his County colours!
Congratulations to our U18s for securing the West Midland U18s League title with a fantastic performance against Worcestershire.
STAFFORDSHIRE AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP 2025: A SHOWCASE OF TALENT AT SANDWELL PARK
The Staffordshire Amateur Championship 2025 unfolded on Saturday, 14 June 2025 at the prestigious Sandwell Park Golf Club, with competitors contesting the event from the white tees under demanding conditions.
STANDOUT PERFORMANCES
• Alfie Turner emerged victorious in a tight contest, carding an impressive 66 and 77 for a total of 143 (+1)
• Ronnie Groves of The South Staffordshire claimed second place with rounds of 71 and 75, finishing on 146 (+4)
• Rounding out the top three was Tom Hewitt, also representing The South Staffordshire, with a total of 148 (+6) across rounds of 72 and 76
DEPTH OF COMPETITION
The leaderboard reflects a strong and competitive field. Notable performances included:
• James O’Keeffe (Trentham), finishing fourth at 149 (+7)
• Jensen Berridge of Sandwell Park, placed fifth with 150 (+8)
• Jaydon Scarrott (Wergs) and Terence Bray (Sandwell Park), both tied for sixth at 152 (+10)
Competitors from clubs across Staffordshire, including Penn, Enville, Trentham Park, and others, filled out a leaderboard that stretched well beyond the top ten, underscoring the depth of amateur golf talent in the county.
IN SUMMARY
The 2025 Staffordshire Amateur Championship was a compelling test of skill, composure, and consistency. Alfie Turner’s steady performance edged out a skilled field, while the results highlight the impressive standard of amateur golf across Staffordshire clubs. From Sandwell Park to Trentham, entrants demonstrated why the county continues to be a breeding ground for exceptional golfing talent.
ALFIE TURNER: STAFFORDSHIRE’S RISING GOLF STAR
Over the past few months, Alfie Turner—just 14 years old and representing Trentham Golf Club—has delivered truly sensational performances, cementing his status as one of Europe’s most promising young golfers.
Historic Triumph at the Staffordshire Amateur Championship
In June 2025, Alfie made headlines at Sandwell Park Golf Club by becoming the youngest-ever winner of the Staffordshire Amateur Championship. He fired rounds of 66 in the morning—producing the only under-par score of the day with six birdies—and followed with a resilient 77 in the afternoon. This impressive performance secured him a three-shot victory and a clean sweep of major awards, including the James Beattie Salver (Best Gross), Legge Cup (Best Nett), and Britannia Cup (Best Under-21 Gross)
Ascending the Junior Golf Rankings
Alfie’s storming summer didn’t stop there. Recent reports confirm his rise
to the top echelons of junior golf— earning the title of “Europe’s No.1 junior”, with an exceptional average score of 71.94 across seven counting events
Continuing Success at the Reid Trophy
Just days ago, Alfie added yet another achievement to his growing résumé: winning the Silver Medal at the Reid Trophy, further underlining his consistent excellence
Early Career: The Foundation of a Future Star
Even before these recent exploits, Alfie’s trajectory was clear. At age 13, he claimed the North of England U14 54-hole title and clinched the Staffordshire U14 Boys Gross Championship for the fourth consecutive year. In addition, he
impressed in Pro-Am competition, including a round of 67 gross alongside former European Tour pro David Lynn, who praised Alfie’s mental strength and commitment.
Why Alfie’s Journey Matters
Alfie’s success is more than a mere scorecard — it’s a testament to exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and a maturity way beyond his years. His string of groundbreaking performances and consistent upward trajectory show that he’s not just a junior sensation but a formidable competitor with serious potential to make waves in the wider golfing world.
AARON RAI MAKES MAJOR PROGRESS
For the first time in his professional career, Rai successfully qualified for, and made the cut in all four majors. With his overall total score for the majors being around level par his performance marks a significant step forward in terms of consistency and ability to compete at the highest level of golf.
Jason Timmis commented: “Making all four cuts is a little achievement in itself. It’s the first time he’s ever done that, and that’s a massive bonus this year.”
While they may not have broken into the top-10, the numbers beneath the surface tell an even more encouraging story. Rai’s ball striking has been up there with the very best. At The Masters, he ranked top five in strokes gained
tee-to-green, while at the PGA Championship he was second in strokes gained on approach. At Royal Portrush, host of this year’s Open Championship, Rai once again finished second in strokes gained tee-to-green.
“Stat-wise it’s been very good,” added Timmis. “Tee to green he’s been right up there. The putting has definitely let him down this year. He hasn’t really got hot with the putter at any stage, but once he does he’ll be right up there.”
Heading into the PGA Tour Play-offs, Rai’s camp remain optimistic about the remainder of the season. With the playoffs underway, pushing for a Ryder Cup spot and an aim of finishing inside the top 30 at the FedEx Cup: “If we
can sneak one of those Ryder Cup spots, that’d be an amazing achievement. He’s playing nicely at the moment, so there’s no reason why not.
“Overall it’s been a pretty good season. Majors-wise it’s been very impressive for his first year playing all four,” Timmis concluded.
While 2025 may not go down as headline grabbing year, it’s clearly been a season of solid foundation building for Aaron Rai. His ball-striking, being comfortable on golf’s biggest stages and hunger for improvement suggest his best may just be around the corner.
Aaron Rai’s 2025 major season may not have delivered a victory, but behind the scenes, it has been a story of impressive consistency, as we hear from Jason Timmis, Rai’s caddy.
JOAQUÍN NIEMANN TRIUMPHS AT THRILLING 2025 LIV GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP
AT JCB GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
Joaquín Niemann clinched his fifth LIV Golf League title of 2025 with a three-shot victory at LIV Golf UK, held at JCB Golf & Country Club in Rocester, England, from July 25–27. Entering the final round with a six-stroke lead after shooting 63 on Saturday, Niemann extended his advantage early but faced a serious challenge from Bubba Watson.
Watson mounted a remarkable comeback on the back nine, delivering an electrifying stretch that included two eagles and multiple birdies, cutting Niemann’s lead to just two shots at one point. Despite Watson’s heroics, Niemann responded with key birdies, most notably at the 15th hole. A Watson bogey at the 16th provided further cushion, and Niemann parred the 17th to go up by four. A final-hole bogey didn’t derail his win, and he finished at 18-under-par, three strokes ahead of Watson.
The victory propelled Niemann to the top of the LIV Golf Money List, with earnings of $21,212,762 from five wins across 11 tournaments, more than doubling the total of runner-up Bryson DeChambeau, who sits at $9,721,643. Jon Rahm, the 2024 individual champion, is third with $9,483,791. The top five is completed by Talor Gooch ($8,108,750) and Patrick Reed ($7,634,583), while Sergio Garcia, Marc Leishman, Adrian Meronk, Dean Burmester, and Sebastian Munoz round out the top 10.
In the team competition, Legion XIII secured their fourth team title of the season, further strengthening their lead in the standings. Niemann now
leads Jon Rahm by 39 points in the Individual Standings.
The JCB Golf & Country Club, designed by renowned architect Robin Hiseman, provided a picturesque and challenging backdrop for the event. The course, built in the grounds of Woodseat Hall, an old stately home, features notable relics of the old estate on several holes, including a 17th-century farmhouse.
LIV Golf UK 2025 was not only a showcase of elite golf but also a celebration of music and
entertainment. On Saturday, July 26, Kygo performed live at the venue, bringing his signature tropical house sound to the British countryside. The event also featured DJ Frank Walker, who warmed up the crowd with his energetic set.
Looking ahead, LIV Golf has announced that the UK event will return to JCB Golf & Country Club from July 24–26, 2026, marking the third edition of LIV Golf UK by JCB. Tickets for the event are now available, including early bird options for three-day ground passes and Club 54 hospitality tickets.
STAFFS GOLFERS MEET THE STARS OF LIV GOLF
Two of Staffordshire’s most promising young golfers had a day to remember at LIV Golf UK. Courtesy of British golf apparel brand Stuburt.
Austin Rogula, a regular with the Staffordshire U14 team, and Olivia Whittle, part of our elite Ladies’ Association, who is currently studying and playing college golf in the United States, were invited to the ‘closed doors’ Pro-Am day at the JCB Golf & Country Club event.
As team sponsors for Fireballs G.C., Torque G.C., and Stingter G.C., Stuburt gave Austin and Olivia up-close access to the players and a front seat view of all the action.
And as you can see from the pictures, they certainly took every opportunity to rub shoulders with the biggest names in golf!
Graeme Stevens, Managing Director of Stuburt Golf organised the special invitation for Austin and Olivia, along with grounds passes for several other Staffordshire players. After meeting the pair at the Pro-Am day, he said, “Austin and Olivia had a great day and we were delighted that they got to
meet so many players from the three Stuburt teams, along with many others. As a proud British brand, we love coming to Staffordshire for this event. The local golf fans provide an incredible atmosphere, and if sales of our team merchandise is anything to go by, they have really embraced Stuburt and the LIV event. This has become the highlight of the LIV season for us, and we’re very happy to have shared some of that with Staffordshire’s best golfers”
400 VOLUNTEERS DRIVE SUCCESS
AT LIV GOLF EVENT AT JCB GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
The recent LIV Golf event at JCB Golf and Country Club was a showcase of world-class golf, but behind the scenes, it was also a shining example of community spirit and collaboration. A dedicated team of 400 volunteers, recruited by Gareth Shaw, County Secretary of the Staffordshire Union of Golf Clubs, played a pivotal role in ensuring the event’s smooth operation.
These volunteers came from an impressive network of golf clubs across Staffordshire, Leicestershire, Derbyshire, and beyond. Their clubs answered the call to support one of golf’s most high-profile events, with each club taking responsibility for managing a hole or overseeing operations at the practice areas.
The Staffordshire clubs who contributed to this fantastic effort were:
• Brocton Hall Golf Club
• South Staffordshire Golf Club
• Mark Butler Golf Academy
• Trentham Park Golf Club
Each club’s volunteers contributed to key operational roles—ranging from marshalling, score reporting, and crowd management to supporting players on practice facilities. Their professionalism, enthusiasm, and teamwork were widely praised by event organisers, players, and spectators alike.
Gareth Shaw commented, “The response from the golf community has been incredible. To see 400 volunteers give up their time to support this event, many
• The Chase Golf & Country Club
• Oxley Park Golf Club
• Aston Wood Golf Club
• The Manor Golf Club
travelling from far and wide, speaks volumes about the passion people have for the game. Each club brought a fantastic team of people who managed their responsibilities with pride and efficiency. It’s been a real honour to coordinate such a dedicated group.”
The presence of these volunteers not only ensured the event ran seamlessly but also highlighted the strength and unity within the regional golfing community. Their efforts provided a shining example
• Newcastle-under-Lyme Golf Club
• Ingestre Park Golf Club
• The Wergs Golf Club
of how grassroots golf and major professional events can come together to create something truly special.
As the final putts dropped and the crowds dispersed, it was clear that the volunteers had left an indelible mark on the event’s success proving once again that golf’s greatest asset is its people.
THE 47 CLUB
Staffordshire’s golfing landscape is one of the most diverse in the Country, with each course different in every way. From parkland estates to inner city challenges, each club offers something unique both on and off the course. Club 47 is our celebration of the golf courses that make up the Staffordshire Union of Golf Clubs.
Steeped in history and set within the grounds of a Georgian manor house, Brocton Hall Golf Club is a jewel of Staffordshire golf. Founded in 1894 and relocated to its current site in 1923, the course was crafted by the legendary Harry Vardon, six-time Open Champion. Its parkland layout makes the most of the natural contours, mature trees, and streams that wind their way through the property.
Measuring 6,306 yards with a par of 69, Brocton Hall offers a blend of challenge and charm. The par-4 6th is a standout, demanding an accurate tee shot to avoid the water, while the picturesque par-3 14th plays across a brook to a small, well-guarded green.
The clubhouse, housed in the manor house, is as much a feature as the course itself, with incredible views across the opening and closing holes.
Blending first-class golf with top-tier leisure facilities, Branston Golf and Country Club has become one of Staffordshire’s most complete golfing destinations. Situated just outside Burton upon Trent, the club has a championship 18-hole course that sits aside the River Trent, offering picturesque views and a layout that rewards both length and accuracy.
The 6,673-yard, par-72 course features generous fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and immaculate greens that run true all year round. Standout holes include the par-3 7th over water, a test of nerve and precision, and the closing par-4 18th, where the approach shot must flirt with the River Trent to set up a birdie chance.
Beyond the fairways, Branston offers a 9-hole Academy course, a floodlit driving range, and a modern clubhouse with extensive dining, fitness, and spa facilities. It’s a place where golfers can train, play, relax, and socialise all in one setting — truly a country club in every sense.
One of Staffordshire’s more intimate layouts, Burslem Golf Club offers a friendly and relaxed atmosphere that keeps players coming back. Founded in 1907, this 9-hole parkland course sits in the heart of the Potteries, offering an accessible yet enjoyable test for golfers of all abilities. While the yardage may not intimidate — around 5,700 yards for 18 holes (par 70) — accuracy and course management are key. Tree-lined fairways, small greens, and subtle elevation changes mean that every hole requires thought. The par-3s are particularly memorable, demanding precision with the short irons.
Off the course, the clubhouse is a welcoming hub for members and visitors alike, with regular competitions, social events, and a strong community feel. Burslem may be modest in scale, but it’s proof that great golf isn’t just about length — it’s about character, camaraderie, and a love for the game.
BRANSTON GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
BROCTON HALL GOLF CLUB
BURSLEM GOLF CLUB
HOW TO INCREASE FOOD & BEVERAGE REVENUE IN YOUR GOLF CLUB
For many clubs across Staffordshire, the golf course isn’t the only opportunity to impress members and visitors. The atmosphere, service, and quality of food and drink offered before, during, and after a round can be just as important as the golf itself. In this article, we explore practical, proven strategies to help golf clubs maximise the potential of their hospitality offering.
Food and beverage (F&B) can be a powerful but often overlooked revenue stream. When hospitality complements the golf experience, it drives member satisfaction, repeat visits, and profitability.
1. KNOW YOUR CUSTOMERS & PEAK TIMES
• Identify key audiences (members, visitors, societies, non-golf diners).
• Track peak tee times, seasonal patterns, and best-sellers.
• Align staff, hours, and offers with demand (e.g., “19th Hole Specials” post-round).
2. STREAMLINE THE MENU
• Keep it focused, high quality, and quick to prepare.
• Include post-golf classics, healthy options, grab-and-go items, and signature dishes.
3. MAXIMISE GROUP & SOCIETY SALES
• Offer pre-round breakfasts, halfway snacks, and post-round meal deals.
• Pre-book packages to simplify service and boost spend.
4. LEVERAGE ON-COURSE SALES
• Use halfway houses or drinks carts for snacks, drinks, and hot food.
• Accept card payments for speed and convenience.
• Recommend sides, drinks, and desserts.
• Promote specials, events, and loyalty rewards.
6. RUN EVENTS & SEASONAL PROMOTIONS
• Host carveries, quiz nights, BBQs, live music, and themed golf-and-dine nights.
• Invite the wider community during quieter months.
7. CREATE A WELCOMING CLUBHOUSE
• Keep it clean, warm, and well-signposted.
• Use clear menus, comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, sports screens, and background music.
8. USE TECHNOLOGY
• Offer table ordering, pre-orders, and loyalty apps.
• Use POS data to refine offers and pricing.
9. REWARD MEMBER LOYALTY
• Provide discounts, points, or vouchers for regular spend.
• Run “meal of the week” or dining card schemes.
10. PROMOTE CONSISTENTLY
• Use social media, your website, newsletters, and noticeboards to advertise specials, events, and feedback.
A thriving food and beverage service can be the heartbeat of a golf club, encouraging players to linger a little longer, spend a little more, and return more often. By focusing on quality, efficiency, and the overall experience, your club can ensure your hospitality is as memorable as your fairways.
5. TRAIN STAFF TO UPSELL
EVENT TROPHY WINNER CLUB
Boys
Boys Open Championship (Nett)
Boys
Boys
Boys
(U18) (Gross)
FIXTURE LIST
The new golfing season is finally upon us and the Union is excited to see how our County representatives will perform across all our Junior, Men’s and Senior Teams.. We’re confident with the work that our teams have being doing throughout the winter months and they’re all ready to compete at the highest level this season.
Sunday 24th
Staffs Club Golfer Qualifying Round 2 Leek Golf Club
Sunday 31st Seniors Vs Nottinghamshire Radcliffe-on-Trent Golf Club
Sunday 7th Staffordshire Senior Matchplay Championship Trentham Golf Club
Sunday 7th 1st Team Vs Warwickshire Harbourne Golf Club
Sunday 7th 2nd Team Vs Warwickshire South Staffordshire Golf Club
Thursday 11th Beddows Trophy & Centenary Bowl (Gross & Nett) South Staffordshire Golf Club
Fri - Sun 12th-14th
Sept
England Golf Champion of Champions Woodhall Spa Golf Club
Sunday 14th U14 v Shropshire & Herefordshire Penn Golf Club
Friday 19th Staffs Champion Club Golfer Final Aston Wood Golf Club
Sunday 21st Junior Order of Merit Round 4 Beau Desert Golf Club
Tuesday 23rd Seniors Vs Lady Veterans Sandwell Park Golf Club
Saturday 27th Staffordshire Champion of Champions Trentham Park Golf Club
Sunday 28th U14 Vs Worcestershire
These are the complete fixtures until September, if you would like to view the complete list then follow the link below.
WHAT’S THE RULING?
While playing a stroke play competition, a player accidentally causes their ball to move while searching for it in the rough. What is the correct ruling?
A) The player must take a one-stroke penalty and replace the ball.
B) There is no penalty, but the ball must be replaced.
C) The player does not need to replace the ball and must take a one-stroke penalty. See back page for the answer
Is there someone at your club that goes above and beyond? Has there been a hole-in-one or an exceptional score? Do you have a special event happening in the coming months? Have you redecorated the clubhouse?
We want to know! Let us know of anything exciting going on at your club and we’ll try and find a spot in the next edition! E-mail: secretary@staffsgolf.org.uk Click here for more information on the SUGC Answer: B) There is no penalty, but the ball must be replaced.
Make sure you’re following us on social media to keep up with all the latest news from around Staffordshire: @staffsgolfclubs
@staffsgolfclubs
Staffordshire Golf Union
www.staffsgolf.co.uk