Perfect timing as Kevin takes over

Costessey Park's Kevin Pratt will lead the Norfolk men's first team as the new county captain.

He took over from Dan Henderson, the county amateur champion from Royal Norwich, at this week's annual meeting of the Norfolk golf union.

Pratt, who plays off two, has been county second team captain for the past three years and has seen a number of his players go on to establish themselves in the first team.

“I'm really looking forward to this and it's a brilliant time to take over,” he said. “A lot of work has been put in over the last few years to build up a good quality squad and a big one. What I want to do is try to keep a settled side without too many changes.”

Pratt has played for the county second team for five years and was a member of the side which won their division of the Anglian League.

He has also taken part in the Eastern Counties Foursomes at Seacroft and in Norfolk's six-man team for the regional qualifier for the English counties' championship.

His place as second team captain will be taken by James Ollington, who is also a Costessey Park member.

Ollington, 24, first represented Norfolk at U14 level when he was 13 and has played continuously for the county since then.

He has been a member of the second team since he was 17 and is keen to take charge.

“It's something I want to do,” said the four handicapper.

He helped run the Norfolk amateur order of merit last season and is keen to encourage players who want to break into the county scene to take part in these events and show what they can do.

“It's not a closed shop. The more people there are to choose from the harder it will be - but it's a good problem to have,” he said.

t The championship meeting in the Gt Yarmouth & Caister winter am-am series is an individual stableford and takes place on Wednesday, April 11. There are still some places available and the entry fee is £25 for non members, including a meal. Further details from the pro shop on 01493 720421.