Sport Features

We've all been there. Hit two trees at the second; bunker-to-bunker all the way down the seventh; into the same lake three times on the twelfth, fifteenth and sixteenth; and snapped the putter in frustration at the last.

Some days you've had such a terrible round, only one thing can save your day: the bar.

Keith has been named the South East's Steward of the Year in a competition run by the English Golf Union and sponsors London Pride.

"I welcome everybody and have no preferences, I give everybody the same service," says Keith, playing down the achievement.

"I know what all the members drink and get them ready as they're leaving the green."

"See this fourball," says Keith, pointing to a corner of the clubhouse. "The one who's speaking in the corner will have a bitter shandy, the one in the white shirt will have a white wine, and the one with the glasses will have a John Smith's."

Jimmy James, club secretary at Goring and Streatley, says Keith is a priceless asset for delighted scratch golfers and unhappy handicappers alike.

"Not only is he recognised by the business but by members of the club and the visitors, says Jimmy.

"Keith is the first person people see. He's built himself a reputation and he is a genuine character behind the bar.

"People want to spread their sorrows but at the same time they want a bit of humour back, and he's got that mix."

"When you've got to try to keep up with Keith's sharp mind and the ability to remember names, then I won't have alcohol clouding my judgement," retorts Jimmy.

Keith may be the finest in the South East but he knows there is still work to be done to claim the ultimate prize.

"They selected the last four, then I was chosen to go off to London for the national finals.

"I finished runner-up to a lovely lady from Kettering. But I'll try harder next year."