A dedicated golfer really went the distance when he took a 1,000 mile round trip from Hockenheim, Germany to compete in Birchwood Park Golf Centre's annual 'Archie's Day' memorial event,

To help celebrate the life of Archie Sampson, a former member of the public pay-and-play centre who sadly passed away in 2000, Gary Mardell travelled 488 miles to take part in the annual tournament. However, the 13th edition of the competition proved unlucky for the long-distance traveller, as he didn't feature in the prizes.

Played over the 6,364-yard Main Course, beautifully set in the lush Kent countryside, the top prize went to Patsy Carey, whose Stableford points score of 39 was just enough to secure victory, pipping Archie's son, Mark Sampson, to the post who claimed the Ray Neira Memorial Trophy for coming second.

Also seeing success at Birchwood Park - part of BGL Golf, the UK's leading golf course owner and operator - was 2011 Ladies Captain, Anne Woon and her partner, Jane Mulley. The pairing secured victory in the Ladies Invitational after count back, with 42 Stableford points.

Graham Rolland, Birchwood Park Golf Centre General Manager, said: "Archie was a well-liked member here, and Gary's extraordinary commute to play in his memorial is testament to that.

"Both Archie's Day, and the Ladies Invitational were very well attended so I'd like to thank all the competitors for taking part and congratulate the winners on behalf of everyone at Birchwood Park."

For more information, visit www.birchwoodparkgc.co.uk or call: 01322 662038.