THE Dorset Golf & Country Club (DGCC) junior team, led by captain Callum Ward, played in the National Final of the Royal British Legion Poppy Challenge at Staverton Park, near Daventry.

The event is a national knockout tournament played throughout the year.

More than 170 teams entered the competition so to reach the national final, comprising the last four teams, was a fantastic achievement for the club’s junior section.

The team of George Carroll, Joe Taylor, George Morrissey and Ward played tremendously well on a demanding course that measured more than 6,600 yards against some tough opposition from Durham, Kent and Walsall.

The quartet have all played for Dorset at their appropriate age levels but this competition was a step-up as they were playing teams containing players up to 18-years-old.

Ward said: “It was a great weekend for the team – now we have a taste for the competition we will be practising hard over the winter to come back strongly next year.”

DGCC, based in Bere Regis, has a good record of developing junior golf and is delighted with the achievement of the section.

General manager Graham Packer is keen to encourage other young boys and girls to take up the sport.

He said: “We have great facilities and coaches at the club who can help get the basics right. Membership is free for under-11s and heavily discounted up to 18.

“In our safe environment, juniors can practice their skills and then go on to play in competitions run by the club throughout the holidays.”

Junior organiser Mike Chapman was especially proud of the team’s achievement.

He added: “The Royal British Legion has a close association with our club as we have a long record of welcoming military members.

“They are keen to promote their activities with young people and our junior team was honoured to represent the club in such a prestigious event.”