BOLTON Old Links narrowly beat Stockport side Hurleston Hall to take the Red Rose Veterans Golf League.

In an exciting finish to the season Old Links won their final match 11-3, despite missing injured Geoff Minshull.

The team captain tore a muscle the previous Thursday at Bury and had to watch from the side - but he enjoyed a celebratory drink in the clubhouse with his team-mates.

Geoff said: "It's a great win for the club and I'm delighted for everyone who has played this year.

"However, the main thing, as ever in senior golf, is the camraderie, the competitive friendship between teams and the desire of all players to be there next year.

"Long may it continue."

The Red Rose Veterans League comprises teams of players over 60-year-old, from as far wide as Bury GC and Heysham GC.

It began in 1987, with Old Links victorious in 1995, 1996 and 2000.

Their fourth title has been mainly due to a late burst through the second half of the campaign.

The culmination of the season is the 4BBB competition held at the home course of the current president, who this year is Colin Lanceley of Deane GC.

Old Links' Bill Chadwick and Jim Cunliffe of Chorley GC finished in second place.