Outgoing golf president's message

The president of Shropshire & Herefordshire golf has issued a buoyant message for the future as he prepares to end his two years in office.

Colin Rawlins will stand down from his position at Monday's annual meeting of the S & H Union at Shrewsbury Golf Club, with president-elect John Jones filling the void.

Rawlins, of Kington, has enjoyed an historic term as he oversaw S & H's first ever Midlands League crown last year.

And he insists future success will come the way of the two counties in the coming years.

"Things look very, very promising," said Rawlins, who formerly assisted Ron Snelling with junior golf in S & H.

"Last season was magnificent and Nigel Chesters (captain) and all the players did a first-class job.

"To be the president when Shropshire & Herefordshire won the Midlands League for the first time was a huge honour.

"And I'm sure everyone can build on that now. We have got some very promising young players in the first and second team and Ron will keep working hard with the juniors."

Rawlins admitted he had been overwhelmed by the support he has received during his term as president.

"I have received a fantastic welcome at every single club I have visited and Bob Davies (secretary) has done a brilliant job with the organisation," he added.

"The work Ron does with the juniors is fantastic and Nigel and Terry Horobin (team manager) got everything right to help the team win the Midlands League."

Rawlins is also confident the union's clubs are responding well to the credit crunch.

"It is concerning because clubs are losing members everywhere at the moment," he added.

"But all the clubs are doing everything they can to help retain members and attract new ones and that's great to see."

• Rawlins will join S & H players and officials to mark their Midlands League success at a special celebration at Patshull this evening, when EGU president Roy Case will be in attendance.