LOCAL man Nigel Hardaker came out top of the hundreds of golfers who entered the Pitch and Putt Open at Aireville Park in Skipton last weekend which raised over £3100 for Sue Ryder Care - Manorlands Hospice.

Nigel (19) who's job is to mow the greens at the pitch and putt course showed that local knowledge is vital as he posted a score of 46 for the 14 hole course. The score was matched by Peter Cook of Otley but Nigel won on the nearest to the pin tie breaker.

The top junior award was won by eleven year old Louis Cook who hit a 52 and Sophie Eddison scooped the prize for best lady with a 51. The performance of the weekend however was probably achieved by Ben Topper who hit a score of 57 at the age of only 6 years old. Ben also won the prize for the best junior putter.

The weekend commenced with Skipton Town Cryer Kevin Griffiths, announcing the first groups onto the first tee which contained local councillors, Marcia Turner, Paul Whitaker and Robert Hesseltine.

Sue Ryder Care Fundraiser Andrew Wood was delighted with how the weekend went and paid tribute to all who contributed. "We would like to thank Craven District Council, HML, The Premier League, our sponsors and our wonderful volunteers without whom this event would not have been possible. The event was enjoyed by people of all ages and the funds raised will prove vital in helping Manorlands to care for local people with serious illnesses."