AS the weather changes and Autumn sets in, it is fascinating to see how the game of golf changes with the different conditions.

The long flattering run on the ball has disappeared, and often a rethink is needed as to the club selection, particularly approaching the greens.

Generally speaking the scores from the various competitions have a different look too.

After reading an article about the club in the “Crediton Courier” a week or so ago, a new resident of the town asked your reporter for a brief overall description of the course. It’s difficult to be brief about a such an extensive facility, but here goes.

Downes, an eighteen hole golf course, is set in 90 acres of parkland, about a mile outside of the town.

The layout is good for both low and high handicap players. The front nine is flat and tree-lined, while the back nine has an undulating first three holes, and features three ponds, one on each of the par 3's.

It has good practice facilities and it is possible to have lessons. The clubhouse is situated between the 9th and 10th holes, which can be very convenient. I hope that is a fair brief description. There are some excellent images on the club website.

Competitions this week included, the Mick Thompson Trophy for the Seniors, which was won by Joseph Hull with 41pts. The Kenmar Trophy, for past Seniors Captains, was won by David Cousins.

The main Ladies event of the week was the EG Medal where Liz Guildford headed the field with a score of nett 74.

The club event on Saturday was the Norman Sutton four player team event. A very large field took part in this competition.

The winning team was Leigh Davies, Philip Beasley, Stephen Yates and Ricky Buttle.