Brian Lemmon, who made a huge contribution to the development of Barnham Broom Golf Club's two courses, has died at the age of 61.

After joining the club full time as a 16-year-old he worked his way up to become head greenkeeper and gave a total of 38 years service to the club.

'Brian has made a totally unique contribution to Barnham Broom Golf Club,' said the club's chairman and founder Colin Bothway.

'Over many years he, together with his able deputy and loyal friend Alan Elliot, has deservedly received much credit for the quality and condition of our two championship golf courses.

'In that regard we hope his legacy can live on, for many years to come and for many to enjoy. Brian will be deeply missed and leaves behind many fond memories to cherish. On behalf of all at Barnham Broom we have been very privileged and are deeply grateful to have worked alongside such a great, sincere, kind, hard working and humble colleague.

'He was always on the look-out for others and his positive outlook was most often reflected by the warm smile and jokes he shared with us all. Brian always enjoyed life to the fullest.'

Mr Lemmon passed away at the Norfolk & Norwich University Hospital on Tuesday after a battle with stomach cancer, which was diagnosed earlier in the year.

He is survived by wife Eileen, sons James and Matthew, brother Andrew and parents Graham and Pat.