Budgen blow to D&T hopes

LEWES Golf Club's challenge for the Davies & Tate inter-club knockout competition has suffered a blow with the loss of teenager Jack Budgen.

The one handicapper, who is hoping to land a golf scholarship in America, has now moved out of the junior ranks and will concentrate his golf at his other club, East Sussex National.

But there is better news for last year's beaten finalists from former professional Lawrie Tremlett, who plays off a handicap of plus one.

Tremlett, Lewes's head greenkeeper, intends to target the Sussex Order Of Merit title this season and had intended to take a year out from Davies And Tate competition.

But with the loss of Budgen and Tony Hilton to the professional ranks last year, Tremlett, who won all his Davies And Tate singles and foursomes matches last season, will make himself available for the tough second round tie against West Sussex at Pulborough on April 12.

Lewes have a bye in the first round but the Pulborough trip will fully test their resources. It's a game in which the Chapel Hill club will be seeking revenge two years ago they were beaten 6.5-5.5 at the Davies And Tate semi-final stage by West Sussex, who went on to win the trophy.

The tie will be a useful warm-up for Tremlett, who defends the Chanctonbury Ring Order Of Merit event at West Sussex later in April.

Thirty-year-old Tremlett said: 'I really fancy a crack at the Order Of Merit title and you have to play most of the events to have a chance. My win in the Chanctonbury last year shows I can be right up there.

'But losing Jack is a big blow for the Lewes team and I'll be there to help the lads at West Sussex if selected.'

Lewes can still field a strong side with Steve Verth off scratch, Henry Hilton (one) and James Morrall and Matt Hart both two. Four handicappers Andy Gale, Dave Cosham and team captain Peter Franklin make up the first-choice team.

Seaford Head face a real test in the first round on March 29 when they entertain trophy holders West Hove, while Peacehaven visit Piltdown, East Sussex National travel to Hassocks and Crowborough Beacon entertain Mid Sussex. Seaford, Blatchington and Wellshurst have first-round byes. DERRICK SHAW