99 not out for Chessy!

THERE’S no puttering around for Irene Chesterton, who celebrated her 99th birthday with her usual round of golf at Doncaster Town Moor

“Chessy”, as she is known around the club, has been a member at Town Moor for 59 years and was chauffeured in her suitably birthday-adorned golf buggy around nine holes that she played in the company of her regular playing partners.

Her round was followed by a celebration in the clubhouse, which was attended by more friends and club captain Ricky Brentnall.

Having thoroughly enjoyed her day she stood up to thank everyone profusely and regaled guests with stories from her past.

Over her time at Town Moor Golf Club, situated in the middle of Doncaster Racecourse, she has twice been ladies champion and remains a very active member, still well known for her straight shots down the fairway and her fine putting, as well as for putting on a bit of a show at Christmas.

The retired local government worker used to come down to play after work, along with her husband George, who died around 10 years ago. They both took up the game after George retired from playing cricket.

Club trustee Juliet Swinbourne, who says members are amazed by Irene, commented: “We’ve never had anyone else playing at 99, and I’ve never heard of it anywhere else either.

“She says her eyesight is not what it was, and that she sometimes sees two balls, but she still hits the ball really straight. She goes around the course with a buggy now too rather than walking the whole course.

“She’s had three holes in one over the years and is still really fit and active. As a golf club we are very proud of our oldest, longest-standing member”

Irene’s daughter, Sheila Sanderson, said: “I’ve been for a round of golf with her and she still beats me. She has had great health.

“I know she’d love to still be playing when she’s 100, and we will see how she goes – she’s really quite an inspiration.”

The event was filmed by Paul Ogden for BBC Look North and televised later that evening.