Holiday reward for Great Harrowden golfer, 94, who hit first hole-in-one

Wellingborough Golf Club member Arthur Ball achieved every golfer’s dream on a seniors’ away trip to Dunston Hall in Norwich on April Fools’ Day.

And not only did the Norfolk venue give Arthur a bottle of champagne to celebrate on the day, but it has now invited the great-grandfather back with a friend to enjoy a free one-night golf break to help mark his memorable feat.

The 26-handicapper, who has been playing golf for 50 years, stunned playing partners Trevor Sherington and Ian Jolly when he carded the ace on the 169-yard ninth hole at Dunston Hall, and he had double reason to celebrate as his hole-in-one played a key part in helping his three-ball to win the team competition.

Arthur said: “It was an amazing day and one that I’ll never forget, especially as it was before 12 o’clock on April Fools’ Day.

“The club gave me a bottle of champagne on the day to celebrate, and to have now received this extra gift from Dunston Hall is very special.

“I’m very grateful to everyone.

“I always aim at the middle of the green, and don’t even think about trying to get it in the hole.

“My playing partners said it was in the hole, but I told them that it must have rolled off the back of the green.

“However, when I got to the green it was there in the hole.

“I’ve been close on several previous occasions, but the ball has never dropped before – you need a bit of luck and I got it this time.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my first visit to Dunston Hall.

“Everyone in the pro shop was as excited as I was at what happened and I’m looking forward to going back later this year.”

John Angus, group director of golf for QHotels, said: “To be playing golf regularly at the age of 94 is an achievement in itself, so to get a hole-in-one is a remarkable feat and one which Arthur should be very proud of.

“QHotels’ ethos is ‘Inspired by You’ – and what could be more inspiring than Arthur’s story?

“When our team heard what happened, we were determined to acknowledge and celebrate Arthur’s achievement and can’t wait to see what he achieves on his return visit!”