AN annual golf tournament has been launched in honour of a long-serving member who died last July, aged 77.

The Royal Winchester Golf Club has launched the competition for its senior section in memory of Dick Collins.

Mr Collins, of Ebden Road, Winnall, was a lifelong Wintonian and was a keen sportsman.

He played football for All Saints Choir as a child, Holy Trinity School, Southampton Technical College and King Alfred Boys Club.

Mr Collins then went on to play for King Alfred Old Boys, and the RAF during his National Service.

Later on he played for Winchester City, Basingstoke, and Whitchurch who he also managed for a number of years.

During summer Mr Collins turned out regularly for local clubs Hyde Ramblers and West Hill.

Later in his 40s he took up golf joining Royal Winchester in 1977, staying a member until his death. In 2004 he was senior captain.

He also played table tennis and chess.

Attending the event was Dick’s widow Rosemary and sons Steve and Clive.

The winner was Ron Venturi, playing off handicap 16, who scored 39 points to win by one shot.

Clive said: “As a family we are all very proud of the fact that Dad has been honoured in such a way, at the club where he was a member for over 35 years, and we are sure that he would be too.

“It was very emotional to be invited up to watch the first players Tee off in the first running of the competition.”