Bower and Walker aid England's triumph

MELTHAM GC’S Jamie Bower and James Walker, of the Oaks GC, helped England to victory in the weekend international against France.

England eventually prevailed 14-10 in a tight battle at Formby GC in Lancashire.

Yorkshire champion Bower and international newcomer Walker contributed a singles victory apiece and the latter, in partnership with Ashton Turner (Kenwick Park) also brought home a half in Saturday’s foursomes.

Masters champion Danny Willett, from Sheffield, played in the 2008 match and sent a good luck message to the team on Saturday night.

England team captain Kevin Tucker commented: “They were very pleased to receive it and it was very good of the Masters champion to send it.”

He added: “The match was very tense, as we said it would be, and I am so proud of the boys. They have been a pleasure to be with, they are a fantastic set of lads.

“All credit to the French team – they came back hard, as we knew they would. It’s never easy to win an international match and the experience will do my lads a lot of good, especially our four debutants, Scott Gregory, Josh Hilleard, Bradley Moore and James Walker.”

Walker was never behind in his singles game on Sunday and gradually worked his way to three up after 12.

He was pegged back by Jeong-Weon, but won the match by one hole.

Cleckheaton GC’s Megan Clarke yesterday successfully defended her Yorkshire girls’ championship, at Otley GC.