‘It’s a lot to live up to’ - Tributes paid to creator of Bawburgh golf course Alan Barnard
Alan Barnard and Kate Barnard. Picture: Archant - Credit: Archant
Tributes have been paid to the creator of one of Norfolk's popular golf courses, who has died.
Alan Barnard took the match ball onto the pitch after purchasing his 80th season ticket. Picture: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd - Credit: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd
Alan Barnard, 89, designed Bawburgh Golf Club and the original nine hole course alongside former professional golfer Bert Kelly in 1979.
Mr Barnard, who died on September 30, and wife Kate Barnard, 87, who also died on August 15, continued to work on the course over the years increasing it to 18 holes. In 1994 it saw the addition of Glen Lodge Clubhouse.
Mr Barnard was a father, grandfather and great grandfather of ten. He was a pioneer in agriculture in the 1900s on his Wymondham farm.
Mr Barnard was a keen hockey and tennis player and enjoyed fishing and shooting. He played an important role in the creation of Great Melton Bowls and Cricket Club and was a keen supporter of Wymondham Rugby Club, helping to fund their recent move to Barnard Field.
Alan Barnard took the match ball onto the pitch after purchasing his 80th season ticket. Picture: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd - Credit: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd
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Son, Robert Barnard, said: 'For a man who only played a handful of rounds of golf during his lifetime, he had an amazing vision for the sport.
'Various family members have followed suit with John (his other son) masterminding the development to 18 holes and the creation and opening of Glen Lodge, Sue working hard as a partner and director, followed by myself and Jo (his daughter) who introduced a further nine holes in 2010 and the Norwich Family Golf Centre in 2011.'
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The pair took interest in Bawburgh Golf Club, visiting for lunch and helping out at the annual Barnard Charity Golf Day during their later years.
The golf day has raised nearly £200,000 for Norfolk charities including Break, East Anglia's Children's Hospice and The Heart Foundation.
Alan Barnard with volunteer Marcus Mawby. Picture: Archant - Credit: Archant
His son added: 'It's a lot to live up to but the whole family is trying to do their bit.
'He was always very keen on sport and was presented with a match ball three seasons ago at Norwich City after being a season ticket holder for 80 years.
'They were both very hands on people and if they could help anyone they would. We are all a bit the same really, it must be in the Barnard genes.'
A service to celebrate his life will be held at Hethersett Church at 2pm on Monday, October 29.
