A new ladies’ champion, Jess Rutherford, has been crowned at Great Yarmouth & Caister Golf Club.

Playing 36 holes on the same day, Jessie began her challenge with an impressive gross 74, followed in the afternoon by an 84 for a total of 158.

Jessie, a high school teacher who is also an established Norfolk county player, won the competition at her first attempt. As a result she saw her handicap drop from eight to seven.

Second was Dawn Futter, who was defending her title, with scores of 82 and 86. Lady captain Jean Johnson said she was pleased to see many more participants in the championship than in previous years.

Coupled with the 36-hole championship was the Wharton Cup, a net competition. Winner was Rita Bleasdale with a two-round net total of 138. Her aunt Ruth Wharton donated the cup in 1949. Second was Bev Andrews shooting 75 and 82 net respectively.