STEVE Donovan carried off the inaugural John McKeon Shield as 84 senior members from The Vale Golf Club competed in a yellow tee strokeplay competition.

A strong field and some good golfing action resulted in a well-earned victory for Donovan, who shot a commendable nett score of 66.

The salver was donated and presented by Yvonne McKeon in memory of John McKeon.

The stalwart was a highly popular and well-respected former seniors’ captain at the club who died only a few months ago.

The new competition is a fitting tribute to McKeon and the club are now expected to stage it on an annual basis.

The competition’s Division One was led home by Ed Mountney who played well to card a nett 69.

He was followed by Brian Brumhead with 70 and Jim Rushworth who returned a nett 71.

Donovan won Division Two and was followed on a countback by Brian Sidaway and Derek Lambert. Both players returned 73.

John Scott won Division Three on a countback from Adrian Duggan and Mick Hughes, who all returned a nett 72.

In dry conditions at The Vale, 42 ladies competed for the third medal and a chance to represent the club at the County Centenary Cup Competition.

Lady captain Audrey Sidwell won the Silver Division with a nett 77.

Mary Collier won the Bronze Division with a nett 75 and Sandie Seager triumphed in the Copper Division with  a 76 nett.