THE start of Tavistock’s Poultry and Bottle Trot competitions is a sure sign that Christmas is not far away.

First off was the the Men Veterans’ Poultry Medal. The winner in the first division was Graham Horton with 41 points; second Peter Leverton 40 on pts and third David Johns 36pts. Simon Hirst with 39pts was first in division two; second John Thewlis 37 pts, third Brian Goble 36 pts on countback from Dave Burge.  In division three first was Tony Russell 33pts, second Paul Mace 32pts, third David Oriss 31pts.

The Men’s Poultry Stableford was due to be played over two days because of the number entries; unfortunately day two was postponed because of bad weather and will now be played later in the month. On day one Kenny MacKenzie was first in division one with 36pts on countback from Gary Davis and third was Graham Ruth 35pts. With 38pts Keith Stenhoouse was first in division two; second was Mike Western 35 pts on countback from Jerry Bawden.

In the Ladies’ Bottle Trot 19 teams braved the gale force wind and showers. The winning team was Nicky Gawman, Bev Ruth and Fiona Lovell who scored an excellent 75pts, Wendy George, Helen Phipps and Cheryl Hall were second with 71 pts, third were Dawn Dennis, Sally Hills and Jane Hoskins 67 pts.

Every year the ladies hold their team dinner when team captains thank their players and caddies for all their efforts and support throughout the season. All caddies compete for the Caddies’ Trophy which was won this year by Jane Hosking. The trophy was presented several years ago to the ladies by Val White who died earlier this year.