SKIPTON Golf Club's open day will be remembered for one that got away.

With home advantage proving decisive, Skipton golfers led the way in the club’s annual open day stableford competition, which attracted a solid 140 players, the majority visitors.

Taking top spot with 47 points were Robert Elliot and Lee Guilfoyle, two points clear of Keith Airey and Keith Roberts, while a further point behind in third place were father and son Guy and Rob Windle.

The open day, organised by the club’s Rabbits section, was sponsored by Cross Hills-based Skipton Volkswagen, who put up a brand-new VW car for a hole in one on the par 3 12th.

It was limited to 50 participants who had bought an entry ticket for the competition.

The elusive hole-in-one actually happened, though the golfer who achieved what is for many a once in a lifetime feat - and who shall remain nameless - had failed to purchase a ticket, so learning one of life’s lessons the hard way.

Rabbits section captain Roger Moore said: “This was possibly the highlight of a day to remember, with players enjoying the course at its best and in perfect weather conditions.

“Only positive comments were received about the whole experience - from arrival and registration, the course itself, right through to refreshments before, during and after the golf.

“Our sincere thanks go to the greens staff, bar and catering teams, Skipton VW and all members who helped to make the day the success that it undoubtedly was.”

An operating profit was made on the Halfway House, which will be added to the Rabbits’ 2019 donation to Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice in Oxenhope, with the kitty now standing at over £300.

Moore is now looking forward to his annual Rabbit Captains Day at Skipton this Saturday, which will also feature the club’s 2019 Family Fun Day, again in support of Manorlands, from noon onwards.

Moore describes it as an opportunity to sign up and play golf in the morning and relax in the afternoon, with lots to do and enjoy for all the family.

Because parking will be restricted at the club, a free shuttle bus is being laid on from the Skipton Town Hall car park outside the Three Links Club between noon and 5pm.