DAVYHULME Park Golf Club members turned out in force to give a fond farewell to club administrator Sandy Rogerson.

Sandy has been an integral part of the club in her role for 17 years and at a members' information evening, with 110 members present, club president Barry Nugent marked her service with a presentation.

Sandy gave an emotional response to the presentation thanking all of the memberships for the friendships she has developed over the years and the many colleagues she has worked with during that time.

Barry said: “Sandy will be missed and we all wish her well in her retirement.”

The Manchester Alliance’s Order of Merit for professionals and amateurs is one of the most hotly-contested competitions during the winter months, culminating on President’s Day at Withington Golf Club on April 27.

Points are awarded throughout the winter season for top finishes in the individual pro section and for amateurs on their placings in the pro-am and amateur competitions.

At the midway stage, Davenport’s Graham Cox leads the professional order of merit with 193 points with his closest rivals being Adam Hodkinson (Chorlton) 153, Craig Corrigan 140, Scott Jackson and Ian Ridgway (both Disley) 127 and Mark Smith (Stamford) 124.

Swinton Park’s consistent performer Jimmy O’Reilly leads the amateur order of merit on 26.5 ahead of Kevin Ashton (Bolton) 24.5, Steve Hamblett (Pike Fold) 21, Dave Bradbury (Disley) and Andy Fletcher (Bolton Old Links) both 19.

With plenty of events to come including the match-play knock-out, the stroke-play championship and President’s Day, there are still a great number of points available for all of the contenders.