Mike Winder is devoted to golf and has had his just reward in receiving the Tony Jones Putter Memorial Trophy from the Sussex CGU.

The award, in the opinion of retiring union president Andy Beer and secretary David Harmer, goes to those giving outstanding service to the county.

They didn't have far to look this year than Mike who describes himself as a 'jack of all trades.' David Harmer prefers to fill in the details.

"Mike has given many years of dedicated service especially in junior golf. He has been on the junior committee for many, many years and is the perfect background person that every amateur organisation needs.

"He attends all junior events, acts as starter, driver for the minibus to away matches and is assistant to Dave Richardson, the junior delegate, and general help wherever it is needed. He is held in great esteem by all involved in county golf, a truly unsung hero."

Mike, 59, has been an honorary member at Peacehaven since 1975. A couple of back operations 30 years ago put paid to his golf but his enthusiasm has remained undiminished. He first came into contact with the county when Darren Cook (the West Hove professional) was on the fringe of Sussex Juniors. It was largely on Mike's recommendation that Darren was selected at boys' level as John Wilson, county organiser at the time, knew a good tip when it came along.

CHRIS Purton, apart from winning the Sussex Order of Merit, became the proud recipient of the Graham Jones Memorial Trophy at the county's annual players dinner at The Dyke. The trophy is voted for by the players, captain, president and secretary of the SCGU for the person who has done most for Sussex in the year.

"Chris was a well deserved winner after a great season including winning the Colts' championship and several order of merit events," said secretary David Harmer.

Meanwhile, Jamie Spence made a flying visit to the Hong Kong Open and just about covered his expenses. The opening event of the European Tour was won by Padraig Harrington on 11 under par when he birdied the final two holes to edge out Hennie Otto.

The Nevill man wanted an early start to the season and finished five over (71, 69, 72, 73) with four steady rounds earning him just over £1,000 for joint 60th place.

He lost no time in returning home and is not likely to swing a club in earnest again until the South African circuit after Christmas.

Quite a few didn't make the cut in Hong Kong including David Geall, the former Seaford assistant playing out of Germany. He started with an encouraging 68 but required nine strokes more second time around and packed his bags.