LATEST Eaglescliffe Golf Society NEWs
New handicaps confirmed with Laird slashed
Laird Hit With Five-Shot Cut as EGS Handicap Committee Wields the Axe
Fresh from capturing the first major championship of the season, Derek Laird has been handed a significant reminder of the price of success after the latest Eaglescliffe Golf Society handicap revisions were released.
As expected following his Cliffe Cup triumph at Wickham Golf Club, Laird was the biggest casualty of the Society's latest review, receiving a hefty five-shot reduction from the EGS hierarchy and competition committee.
The dramatic cut follows Laird's outstanding winning performance at Wickham, where he produced a superb net 66 to secure his maiden major title and propel himself to the top of the season-long league standings.
Laird was not the only player to see his handicap heading in the wrong direction.
Cliffe Cup runner-up Paul Sirrell also found himself on the receiving end of the committee's calculations after his impressive display. Sirrell, who finished just one shot behind the new champion with a net 67, was trimmed by two shots.
Remarkably, they were the only two players to receive handicap reductions following the latest review, highlighting just how far ahead of the field the leading pair performed during the Society's visit to Wickham.
While Laird and Sirrell were left counting the cost of their success, several members enjoyed more favourable news as shots were returned following recent performances.
Among those receiving a welcome boost were Ste Butler, Hayden Ward, Nicky Small, Mark Butler, Chris Peers and Richard Coull, with all six players regaining at least half a shot.
The latest adjustments are certain to add another intriguing dimension to the remainder of the season, particularly with Laird now facing the challenge of defending his position at the top of the standings from a significantly reduced handicap.
One thing is certain: after Wickham, the handicap committee has made it clear that major-winning golf comes with major consequences.
Laird pips Sirrell to take first major
Laird Lands First Major as Cliffe Cup Triumph Sends Him Top of the League
Derek Laird produced the round of his Eaglescliffe Golf Society career to capture the prestigious Cliffe Cup at Wickham Golf Club and secure the first major championship of the 2026 season.
Laird fired an impressive gross 85 around the challenging Wickham layout, a performance that translated into a superb net 66 and proved enough to lift the Society's premier stroke-play title.
The victory marks Laird's first major success in EGS competition and earns him the coveted star on his shirt – a symbol reserved for major champions within the Society.
The new champion was pushed all the way by one of the day's pre-tournament favourites, Paul Sirrell. Sirrell delivered an excellent round of his own, posting a net 67 to finish just a single shot adrift in second place.
EGS Competition Chairman Michael Wood completed the podium places with another solid performance to take third position.
There was further success elsewhere on the course, with Mark Yule and Graeme Bailey claiming the nearest-the-pin prizes after producing the day's best tee shots on the designated par-threes.
Sirrell's fine day continued as he shared the longest drive honours with Marc Harrison, both players demonstrating impressive power from the tee.
While the Cliffe Cup was the main prize on offer, the scores also counted towards the Society's season-long league standings. Laird's victory and maximum haul of points proved doubly rewarding, propelling him to the summit of the overall table.
With the first major of the season now decided, the chasing pack will be eager to respond at the next event at Northumberland. But for now, the spotlight belongs firmly to Laird, whose breakthrough victory at Wickham will take some beating as one of the standout performances of the campaign.
Team Savage takes another scramble
Team Savage takes another scramble
Savage Strikes Again as Team Claims Back-to-Back Scramble Successes at Teesside
The latest Eaglescliffe Golf Society scramble returned to Teesside Golf Club and delivered one of the closest team contests of the season, with Team Savage emerging victorious after a dramatic countback finish.
Joe Savage continued his impressive recent form by leading his side to another scramble triumph, making it back-to-back victories for the Geordie-loving Teessider in the popular team format.
Savage was once again joined by Marc Harrison, who also celebrated successive scramble successes, while Steve Cook and Glen Faulkner completed the winning quartet.
On a day where scoring was exceptionally tight throughout the field, Team Savage carded an excellent score of three-under-par. However, they were forced to wait for the countback to separate them from their nearest challengers after both teams finished level at the top of the leaderboard.
The runners-up spot went to the strong combination of Lee Ward, Jamie Simcox, Mark White and Joel Thwaites, who matched the winning score of three-under-par but were narrowly denied by the finer margins of the countback system.
The result further underlines Savage's reputation as one of the Society's most reliable scramble performers, while Harrison's second successive victory ensured the pair maintained their perfect record in recent team events.
With little separating the leading teams throughout the day, the latest scramble once again showcased the competitive spirit and camaraderie that have become hallmarks of Eaglescliffe Golf Society events.
But when the final calculations were complete, it was Joe Savage and his quartet celebrating once more.
EGS 2026 Season So Far...
EXCLUSIVE - KITCHING SPEAKS AFTER alnmouth success
EXCLUSIVE - MATCHPLAY HOLDER AND FORMER CHAMPIONS LOOKING TO MAKE HISTORY
Kitching claims superb victory at stunning Alnmouth outing
Eaglescliffe Golf Society enjoyed a fantastic third outing of the year with a trip to the spectacular Alnmouth Golf Club – and it proved the perfect setting for a standout performance from Stephen Kitching.
Kitching produced one of the rounds of the season so far, storming to victory with an outstanding 43 points. His scorecard was packed with highlights, including a superb chip-in eagle and a string of birdies as he mastered the challenging links layout.
His dominant display saw him finish four points clear of the chasing pack, with Ryan Davidson taking second place on 39 points, just edging out Stefan Butler on countback.
Kitching’s memorable eagle also earned him the nearest-in-three prize, capping a remarkable day on the Northumberland coast.
Elsewhere, James Barron and Michael Wood shared the nearest-the-pin honours, while Mark Yule continued his fine form off the tee, claiming the longest drive prizes for the second outing in a row.
Speaking after his win, Kitching was delighted with both his performance and the venue.
“It was a good day, I can't deny it – my new driver was going well,” he said. “And to do it on what was a glorious course, it really is one of the best we have played in the EGS, stunning.”
With breathtaking views and top-quality golf on display, Alnmouth will certainly live long in the memory as one of the highlights of the 2026 season.
Results on the Day
Overall
1st – Stephen Kitching
2nd – Ryan Davidson
3rd – Stefan Butler
Longest Drives – Mark Yule x2
Pin Seekers – James Barron & Michael Wood
Par 5 in 3 – Kitching
Next up: Wickham on May 17th. Get yourself in the WhatsApp group and get booked on.
EXCLUSIVE - MATCHPLAY HOLDER AND FORMER CHAMPIONS LOOKING TO MAKE HISTORY
EXCLUSIVE - MATCHPLAY HOLDER AND FORMER CHAMPIONS LOOKING TO MAKE HISTORY
Ste Kitching looking to defend title and make history
With almost all of the opening round of the 2026 William Joshua Lane Trophy now complete, reigning champion Ste Kitching is firmly on course to make history.
Kitching, who lifted one of the Society’s major honours in 2025, safely negotiated his opening test with an emphatic 5&4 victory over Jonathan Boyle. Played on his home track at Cleveland, conditions proved far from straightforward, with strong winds sweeping across the course throughout — but the defending champion was in complete control from the outset.
Speaking to Eaglescliffe Golf Society following his win, Kitching was quick to play down his chances of retaining the title.
“It’s going to be hard, isn’t it? It’s tough from the start and there are some very good players left in. It is a tough test for sure, but I would love to win of course,” he admitted.
Victory this year would see Kitching etch his name into Society history. No player has ever successfully defended the William Joshua Lane Trophy — in fact, no one has yet managed to win the title on more than one occasion.
However, several former champions remain in the hunt.
2023 winner Graeme Bailey showed glimpses of his very best form with a convincing 4&3 win over Patrick Stokes. At times, his short game drew admiration from those watching, with one passer-by likening his chipping to that of a young Ballesteros as the gallery looked on.
Tom Nelson, champion in 2022, is already safely through having dispatched Marc Harrison at Castle Eden, while 2021 winner Stefan Butler joined him in the next round after edging past Joe Savage 2&1 at Wynyard.
The only former champion to fall at the first hurdle was 2024 winner Lee Ward, who exited the competition following defeat to Nathan Lewis at Teesside.
Looking ahead, Kitching faces Paul Leonard in the next round, while Bailey will take on Chris Peers. Nelson is set to meet either Paul Sirrell or James Barron, and Butler goes up against Danny Heald in what promises to be one of the ties of the round.
LATEST Handicaps plus updated goty table
New handicaps released including big cuts for Castle Eden winner
The EGS hierarchy have now released the latest handicap adjustments ahead of the Society’s third outing of the year, as attention turns to the upcoming trip to Alnmouth.
The revised figures have seen some notable movement, with several players receiving significant cuts. Chief among them is Castle Eden winner Mark Butler, who loses three shots following his commanding victory in the second outing of the year.
Members are encouraged to review the updated list, with the changes certain to add an extra layer of intrigue to what is shaping up to be a keenly contested event.
In addition, the current Golfer of the Year standings have been refreshed and are now available on the website, offering a timely snapshot of how the leaderboard is taking shape as the season begins to gather momentum.
EXCLUSIVE: Butler Reacts After Breakthrough Castle Eden Victory
EXCLUSIVE: Skipper Reacts After Breakthrough Castle Eden Victory
2026 captain Mark Butler admitted he was “just relaxed” after producing a superb 40-point round to secure his first outright Eaglescliffe Golf Society win at Castle Eden.
The in-form skipper finished two points clear of the chasing pack with a standout all-round display—and speaking exclusively after his victory, Butler was quick to highlight the key to his success.
“Putting and short game was good, driving has improved and I enjoyed it—it was good,” he said.
Having previously shared top spot at Arcot Hall, this marked his first solo triumph—and one he clearly relished.
“I have never won it outright. I’ve drawn before, so I’m happy to get this one—my first proper win.”
Butler also pointed to a new addition on the day as an unexpected factor in helping him stay composed under pressure.
“I was just relaxed. I really enjoyed the live scoreboard we did during the round too—I think that helped me.
“I always like keeping tabs on how things are going in rounds, so I think that took my mind off my own round and I just relaxed into what I was doing.”
And in the end, it all came together at the right time.
“I putted well and it was just a good round—I was very happy with it.”
A captain leading from the front—and setting the standard for the season ahead.
HUGE CASTLE EDEN TURNOUT as captain takes win
handicaps updated - plus first goty league table
Butler Breaks Through at Castle Eden
A cracking turnout of 30+ players descended on Castle Eden—and the Durham track didn’t disappoint, delivering a top-class day of golf.
At the front, 2026 captain Mark Butler finally got over the line for his first outright win.
After sharing the spoils at Arcot Hall last year, he made it count this time with a superb 40-point haul—good enough to win by two.
Jamie Simcox and Mark Yule gave chase with 38 points apiece, while Sean Underdown and Jonathan Boyle were just a shot further back on 37.
It was a standout day for ‘Yuley’. He smashed both longest drives, carded the lowest gross of the day with a brilliant 80, and capped it off with a dominant 5&4 win over James Dempsey. Chris Peers matched that scoreline with a 5&4 victory over Michael Wood.
In the matchplay, 2022 champ Tom Nelson got off to a flyer, seeing off Marc Harrison 4&2. Sean Underwood also impressed — holing an eagle on the 10th to take the Par 5 in 3 prize — before sealing a 4&2 win over Michael Rushforth.
Marc Harrison and Paul Leonard shared the pin seeker honours, while the ace pot and two’s sweep both roll over to the next outing.
Results on the Day
Overall
1st – Mark Butler
2nd – Jamie Simcox
3rd – Mark Yule
Longest Drives – Mark Yule x2
Pin Seekers – Marc Harrison & Paul Leonard
Par 5 in 3 – Sean Underdown
Next up: Alnmouth on April 19th. Get yourself in the WhatsApp group and get booked on.
handicaps updated - plus first goty league table
handicaps updated - plus first goty league table
Dustanburgh winners are cut!
Following the opening outing of the year - the new handicap list is out ahead of the the second trip to Castle Eden and as you expect - the three big hitters from Dustanburgh, Sean Underdown, Derek Laird and Oliver Stoddart have been cut.
There is also the first Golfer of the Year League table.
Opening Scramble sees nail-biting finish at Darlington
EGS Scramble Season Tees Off at Darlington
The Eaglescliffe Golf Society 2026 Scramble season got underway with the opening event taking place at Darlington Golf Club.
In the days leading up to the outing there were some doubts as to whether the first scramble of the year would go ahead, with course conditions under scrutiny, but the green light finally came through from the club on the morning before play — much to the relief of the lads eager to get the team competition season started.
In total, 11 EGS members took to the course, forming three teams for the opening contest of the year. Despite the smaller field, the competitive spirit was in full flow as the teams looked to post an early marker in the scramble standings.
Team 1 consisted of Paul Sirrell, Ste Cook and Lee Atkinson — a three-man side hoping teamwork and consistency would keep them in the mix.
Team 2 lined up with Stephen Kitching, Nick Small, Ryan Davidson and Mark Yule, bringing a strong four-man combination with plenty of experience between them.
Team 3 featured Stef Butler, Mark Butler, Michael Rushforth and Kenzo Simcox, another solid four-ball with plenty of firepower capable of going low.
As expected in the scramble format, there were plenty of birdie chances created throughout the round, with teams working together to give themselves the best possible looks at scoring opportunities.
The leaderboard remained tight throughout the day, with Team 2 and Team 3 both producing strong rounds to separate themselves from the rest of the field.
At the end of play both teams returned excellent scores of -6, leaving the result to be decided on the ever-reliable back nine countback. After the cards were checked, it was Team 3 — Stef Butler, Mark Butler, Michael Rushforth and Kenzo Simcox — who edged the victory, claiming the opening scramble win of the 2026 season.
Team 2 — Stephen Kitching, Nick Small, Ryan Davidson and Mark Yule — were unlucky to miss out after an equally impressive round, while Team 1 of Paul Sirrell, Ste Cook and Lee Atkinson battled hard throughout the day.
It was a great start to the scramble campaign and a welcome return to team competition within the society, setting the tone nicely for the events still to come across the year.
The next EGS Scramble outing will take place on April 25th, when the society will head to Ravensworth Golf Club, a brand new venue for the group and one that will no doubt provide another enjoyable challenge.
As always, anyone wishing to take part should get in touch with the Scramble SEO through the Society’s WhatsApp group to secure their place.
Another strong start to the EGS calendar and plenty more scramble action still to come.
New season underway with Dustanburgh Castle opener
February 2026 - EGS Season Tees Off at Dunstanburgh Castle
EGS Season Gets Underway in Style at Dunstanburgh Castle
The 2026 Eaglescliffe Golf Society season got off to a flying start as a full stable of 20 EGS members made the journey north to take on one of the Northumberland coast’s most scenic and highly regarded layouts at Dunstanburgh Castle.
With stunning views across the coastline and the famous castle providing a dramatic backdrop, the course once again proved a fitting venue to the EGS as teed off another year of society golf.
Conditions were kind to the group and the course itself was found in tremendous condition for so early in the season. Firm fairways, true greens and the ever-present coastal breeze ensured that the opening outing of the year offered a fair but challenging test for the lads as they dusted off the winter cobwebs.
The competition itself turned into one of the tightest finishes in EGS history.
In a remarkable outcome, three players finished the round locked together on an impressive 37 Stableford points — the first time the society has seen a three-way tie at the top on such a score. Sean Underdown, Oliver Stoddart and Derek Laird all produced excellent rounds to set the early benchmark for the season.
With scores level, the result had to be decided on count-back, where it was Sean Underdown who edged ahead to claim the first victory of the 2026 campaign. It was a superb effort from Sean and a well-deserved win, while
Oliver Stoddart and Derek Laird can take plenty of credit for pushing the contest right to the wire with excellent rounds of their own.
Away from the main leaderboard there were plenty of other prizes up for grabs throughout the day. Oliver Stoddart added to his strong performance by picking up one of the Longest Drive honours, sharing the spoils with Nathan Lewis after two booming efforts off the tee.
Accuracy rather than distance was the order of the day for the Pin Seeker prizes, which were claimed by Adam Gray and Richard Coull after producing the closest approaches on the designated holes.
Meanwhile, Mark Yule showed great composure to claim the Par 5 in 3 prize with a well-managed hole that earned him the reward.
Unfortunately for those chasing the extra cash, there were no winners in the two sweep, meaning the pot now rolls over and will be waiting to be claimed at the next outing — something that will no doubt add an extra layer of interest when the society reconvenes later this month.
As always, there was also some early movement in the EGS singles match play competition. Lee Atkinson got his campaign off to a strong start with a solid win over Jamie Simcox, while Chris Peers and Michael Wood battled hard but couldn’t be separated on the day, eventually finishing all square. The pair will now have to meet again to decide who progresses.
All in all, it was a fantastic way to start the 2026 Eaglescliffe Golf Society season — great company, a superb golf course and a fiercely competitive leaderboard to set the tone for the months ahead.
Results on the Day
Overall
1st – Sean Underdown
2nd – Oliver Stoddart
3rd – Derek Laird
Longest Drivers – Oliver Stoddart & Nathan Lewis
Pin Seekers – Adam Gray & Richard Coull
Par 5 in 3 – Mark Yule
The society’s next outing takes place at Castle Eden on March 28th, where the lads will be back in action - check out the members What's App Group to book your place.
EGS annnounce links golf clothing deal
EGS annnounce links golf clothing deal
EGS Announces New Sponsorship with Links Golf Clothing
Eaglescliffe Golf Society is delighted to announce a new sponsorship package with Links Golf Clothing that will see the company provide the Society’s clothing ahead of the new season.
The North East–based brand, which launched in 2025, has quickly built a reputation for producing high-quality golf apparel, and EGS members have been hugely impressed with the range on offer.
The society has previously partnered with well-known golf clothing suppliers including Druids and Ryder Cup outfitters Glenmuir, but members felt Links Golf Clothing offered something that perfectly suited the society moving forward.
As part of the new agreement, Links Golf Clothing will supply the society’s clothing for the upcoming season, ensuring members are kitted out both on course as the 2026 campaign gets into full swing.
EGS President Stefan Butler said the society was thrilled to be working with a local company while also recognising the outstanding quality of the products.
“We are delighted to use a local firm and give them our business, but this is not just about local loyalty,” he said.
“The clothing itself is of fantastic quality and the range really impressed the lads when we first looked at it. We are delighted to be using Links Golf Clothing going forward and are looking forward to working with them as the season progresses.”
The partnership represents another positive step for Eaglescliffe Golf Society as it continues to grow both on and off the course, with members excited to debut the new gear during the upcoming outings.
Click here to visit Links Golf Clothing
2026 Matchplay draw
2026 Matchplay draw
EGS annnounce links golf clothing deal
The draw for the 2026 William Joshua Lane Trophy has taken place - find out who is playing who, and who 2025 champion Stephen Kitching begins his title defence against.
The dates for each round are also confirmed.