A WELL-KNOWN York golfer has died suddenly, aged 79.

Paul Reed, a former captain and an honorary life member of Pike Hills Golf Club, joined the club near Copmanthorpe in 1953.

Former club chairman Martin Greaves said he was appointed club captain in 1974 and served as competitions’ secretary for 25 years, and had the same role for the York Union of Golf Clubs for nine years.

“He went on to be President of the East Riding Alliance in 1985 and Captain of Captains of the York District in 1990,” he said.

“He was made a Life Vice President of the York Union of Golf Clubs, elected onto the executive committee of the Yorkshire Union of Golf Clubs and, because of all his excellent work at club and union level, was made an honorary life member of Pike Hills in 1997.”

He said Paul was an excellent player in his day, particularly in the 60s, 70s and 80s when he won many competitions at Pike Hills and York Union level, and achieved a handicap of 7.

He was also a great lover of most sports and served on the York Sports Council for many years. “Again, due to his outstanding service to local sports he received an English Sports Council award, presented to him at Elland Road, Leeds.”

Paul, who was born in Thirsk but lived in Tadcaster and then Acomb for many years, before moving recently to Badgerhill, worked for Granada TV rentals.

He leaves a widow, Hazel, two daughters, Sharon and Donna, and two grandsons, George and Alfie.

His funeral takes place on Friday at 10am at Heslington Church.