Who would have thought it?
Having endured one of the worst winters in recent times, the golfing gods have been kind this summer with almost unbroken warm (even hot) weather and plenty of sunshine.
As a result, fairways across the region have been filled with regular and new players, while the green staff have the unusual problem of coping with dry conditions while they keep our magnificent courses looking pristine.
The extra run makes for low scoring and, as you will read in the forthcoming pages, we have seen some spectacular scoring, course records and rounds well below par.
One man who is benefitting is our cover star Mark Ridley, who gives hope to those of you closer to the senior ranks than the juniors.
Having switched from his job as a printer aged 40 he is enjoying his second career as a PGA professional both on and off the course - you can read his fascinating story in our centre pages.....
