SOUTHWOLD Golf Club has been mourning the death of a man who played and worked on its greens for 36 years.Brian Allen started work at the club in 1974.

SOUTHWOLD Golf Club has been mourning the death of a man who played and worked on its greens for 36 years.

Brian Allen started work at the club in 1974. His position there was somewhat unique in that he took on the duties of head green keeper as well as that of professional.

He took great pride in his work in both aspects of his position. Under his careful management, the greens at Southwold became rated as amongst the best in East Anglia and he worked tirelessly to ensure the course always looked at its attractive best. His remarkable achievements in both respects are testament to his vast knowledge and expertise as well as his dedication to the task and willingness to work the long hours required to maintain such standards.

Brian was a long serving member of the Suffolk PGA committee and was much respected by his fellow professionals. He played in PGA tournaments as much as possible but such was his loyalty to the club he always put the interests of Southwold Golf Club first and would forego entering competitions if he felt the club needed him.

He was an excellent teacher of golf and enjoyed a good rapport with his pupils, young and old alike whether on the practice ground or the course. Many members will be indebted to Brian for his patience and encouragement enabling them to experience many happy hours on the golf course than would have otherwise been the case.

Southwold Golf Club has benefited greatly over the last 36 years both from his knowledge and experience in matters pertaining to golf and green keeping. He was instrumental in establishing annual Golf Festivals at the club and worked tirelessly to ensure their success.

Brian was the son of Kenneth and Lillian Allen. His father was both professional and green keeper at Beccles Golf Club and Brian helped his father on the course. Although he started his working life in the butchery trade in Beccles he eventually followed in his father's footsteps and became a qualified PGA professional himself.

Brian who lived in Norwich, suffered a stroke in January of this year from which he seemed to be making a good recovery. However further complications set in which saw him return to hospital for an emergency operation. He died there aged 63 on April 10.

A man of quiet strength and pleasant manner, always ready to listen and give help or advice where needed and a true gentleman in every sense of the word. He will be greatly missed by all.

He leaves a widow Sheila, and is survived by his children and grandchildren.