D&C LEAGUE INFORMATION

The Derbyshire and Cheshire Golf League was established in 1975/6 with New Mills Golf Club being one of the 5 original members. Since then the number of clubs involved has increased to 18 which are split into two parallel leagues A and B. New Mills are in League A.

Matches consist of teams of 12 players and are played as singles match play with 2 points being awarded for a win and 1 for a half. Bonus points are added for an away win (4), away draw (3) home win (2) and home draw (1).

If you would like to play or need more information contact our D&C representative Darryl Hall 07870907970, or to view fixtures and results of matches visit the D&C website:- http://www.dandcgolf.co.uk

17th June 2025 – Cavendish Home

The Millers were back to winning ways, taking on top of the league Cavendish at home and winning 19 (plus 2 bonus pts) to 5.

Cavendish had already played most of their matches, so had points on the board, therefore it was vital the Millers won and stayed in touch. It’s always a tricky fixture as Cavendish have lots of experience and generally a few shots in the tank. Their Captain Chris is keen to finish in the top two, as the final is being played at Cavendish this year.

Our low man Elliott Brownsword was out first, giving away 8 shots. He narrowly lost by one, which was a remarkable effort, his opponent paring 6 of his 8 shot holes. James Ignotus had a tough job giving away 5 but was able to pull himself around after getting into difficulty and won by 1. Three debutants were thrown into the side this week, the in form Christopher Lees, Gary Murray & Gethin Evans. Chris & Gary recorded debut wins 4&3 and 2&1 respectively & Gethin lost 2&1 – great effort lads.

Steve Worrall battled to another victory winning 3&2, Stuart Milner had a convincing win 6&5, but performance of the night goes to Mark Brooks winning 9&7 (he found himself in the bar before the Captain!!). Chris Ashton is now gaining plenty of experience winning on the last. Paul Holland got over the line with plenty of ibuprofen & two cans of Kirsty’s finest Kronenberg 2&1!! Barry Lawson won 5&3 after his opponent had 3 birdies 5 pars and an Eagle on the 12th. Finally Jordon Worrall came in with a halve which put another important point on the board.

Good luck to the Cavi who are a good team & played the match in the right spirit, Captained well by Chris Meacham they’re a credit to their club. Next for the Millers a tough one – Houldsworth away Tuesday 1^st July.

2nd June 2025 – Hazel Grove Away

Another away fixture on a tough but very impressive track. The “Millers”, conceding lots of shots, knew this was a big ask. Elliott Brownsword, giving away 4 shots, again brought the win in. Jordon Worrall, giving 5 shots, got a credible half and the matchplay magician Paul Holland got another win under his belt this season. Further wins for James Ignotus & Steve Worrall (who was 3 down at one point) plus a battling halve for Chris Ashton didn’t get Millers the victory, but we earned a respectable 10 away points. Final score 14-10 plus 2 bonus points for the Grove.

The Millers go back to top of the league with four games to play. Next it’s first versus second as we take on Cavendish at home Tuesday 17^th June.

27th May 2025 – Marple Away

The “Millers” took on Marple away in very wet conditions, however Marple’s greens were still quick and difficult to negotiate. The Millers came away suffering their first defeat of the 2025 campaign, losing 13-9, plus Marple getting the additional 2 bonus points.

Millers low man Elliott Brownsword beat Marples scratch player & other impressive wins came from Barry Lawson, Paul Holland & Tony Hall with Stuart Milner halving his match.

16th May 2025 – The Millers Start Their Title Defence!

On 6th May the New Mills Derbyshire & Cheshire League side kicked off the 2025 season at home to Shrigley Hall, as defending champions. It couldn’t have started any better for the Millers as they were straight back to where they left off, winning convincingly 22pts to 2pts. The Millers “golfing supremo” Chris Wood was offering his experience to a relatively young side, with young Jordon Worrall making his debut, plus Chris Ashton returning to the side as well.

Elliott Brownsword started the season as our scratch man and he negotiated the first win, followed by Ben Williams, James Ignotus, Sean Moore & Stuart Milner. There were also wins for Mark Brooks, Barry Lawson (who was giving away 5 shots), Tony Hall, Chris Wood & Chris Ashton, plus Jordon Worrall on his debut.

The following week, also at home, NMGC took on a very experienced Disley team for the first time in two years. The Millers were not only having to deal with windier conditions than normal, but also the ever improving but difficult greens, which give the home side no advantage. We were also giving away 60 shots overall on the night, however the Millers just got on with the job.

From what seemed a very tense and nervy affair over the front nine, the wins started coming in. Chris Wood, giving away 7 shots, came in with a 2&1 win. Jordon Worrall, giving away 7 shots, kept his unbeaten run going. Everyone else was then giving away around 5 shots each, but there were further wins from Steve Worrall, Ben Williams (winning on the 18th yet again!), James Ignotus, Sean Moore (5&4), Barry Lawson, Paul Holland, Chris Ashton (5&4), Tony “the assassin” Hall and, bringing up the rear, Stuart Milner 2&1.

The next game is Marple away on the 27th May.

29th September 2024 – D&C League Trophy Day

The “Millers” entered two teams into this year’s D&C “Trophy Day”, which was held at Disley Golf Club:-

Team 1 : Elliott Brownsword, Jack Sidebottom, Ben Williams & Tony Hall;
Team 2 : Steve Worrall, Phil Urmston, Tim Sigley & Martin Wild.

Team 1 came second and won the two nearest the pins. Cavendish came first, so next years Trophy Day will be held there. Well done to both our teams.

22nd August 2024 – Millers Win The 2024 D&C League in a Dramatic Sudden Death Playoff!!!

The “Millers” first D&C final for more than 35 years – on another miserable afternoon for golf and on a difficult Disley track. The Millers set off with unbelievable support from Sam, Kirsty & Steve, the Management Committee and members.

The Millers went one down against firm favourites Tytherington. Then an important period of play as Ben “matchplay” Williams brought a win home, followed by Elliott Brownsword, Tony Hall & Jason Warhurst to put us 4-1 up. We then went to 4-2 up before Barry Lawson followed with win to put the Millers in a great position 5-2 up. Then the score became 5-3 before Sean Moore chipped in for a birdie, making the score 6-3 and guaranteeing the Millers a play off at least. However Tytherington dug in winning the remaining matches narrowly, taking the final score to 6-6.

With some uncertainty as to what happens next, the D&C League Chair Jon Vaisey confirmed it was a sudden death playoff involving the lowest handicap player from both teams. The Millers Jack Sidebottom, off 2 handicap and having just lost to his opponent in matchplay, stepped up with the weight of the team & club on his young shoulders.

On the first playoff hole, a par 5, Jack nailed his drive 280yds. With 164yds left he hit a pitching wedge on to the green. This put pressure on his opponent, who didn’t get on the green but chipped close for three. Jack’s opponent, still further away, just lipped out with his birdie putt, but finished with his par. Jack lagged up his 12ft eagle putt a bit short but, without hesitation, calmly stroked in his birdie putt to the cheers of his Millers team mates & supporters!!

A dramatic end to an incredible season for this newly formed young but talented Millers D&C team. A remarkable achievement to all involved.

The Millers team was: Jack Sidebottom, Elliott Brownsword, Ben Williams, James Ignotus, Steve Worrall, Barry Lawson, Sean Moore, Jason Warhurst , Paul Holland, Oli De Rosenwerth, Tony Hall and Mark Brooks, plus team captain Darryl Hall.

Commiserations to a talented Tytherington team, but this was the Millers year!

The day after the League final was played, we received the following email from the D&C League Chair with his thoughts on the final:-

“From: Jonathan Vaisey
Date: 23 August 2024
To: D&C Secretaries
Subject: League Final

The League final was played last night at Disley between this years two league winners – New Mills and Tytherington. An excellent final played in great spirit by both teams. The early results saw New Mills take the lead and only needed half a point from the final game, but Tytherington forced the playoff as players from both sides watched from the balcony.

The two lowest handicappers from each side set off to play sudden death and a superb birdie from the New Mills player took the prize.

Well done to both teams not just for the game but also for the manner in which it was played, it was a credit to both of you and showed how D & C matches are played in a competitive yet friendly fashion.

Regards
Jon”

15th August 2024 – Millers Reach the 2024 D&C Final!!

The ”Millers” are in the D & C final with a battling performance, not only against their opponents Mellor, but also the horrendous playing conditions on Thursday evening. The Millers maintained their 100% unbeaten home record, beating Mellor 8½ to 3½ in the semi final. Don’t be misled by the eventual score, as going through 9 holes the Millers were without doubt behind in this match. Not only was the never ending torrential rain in the players faces, but also the wind – and the biggest issue on the back 9 was the fog resting on the course.

With only two results in “Mr matchplay” Ben Williams winning 1up & Mark Brooks scuttled his way round giving away 6 shots, he swept his hair back and with two behind & two to play he dug in to half his match. As the fog was reluctant to move thankfully there were some senior NMGC committee members present to stipulate New Mills course rules, either suspend for 3o mins. However as the decision was being taken the fog began to lift and normal play was resumed immediately. This period no doubt cost both teams holes.

Next in was Tony “the assassin” Hall, who continued his great season with another convincing win against shots. “Mr no nonsense golf” Paul Holland came in 3 &1 after being 4 down – the big man will take some beating. Oli narrowly lost 2 &1 against shots. Then, in what I believe was a vital part of the match, Barry Lawson & Sean Moore returned with half’s. Baz was 2 down with 2 to play but got over the line with a half. Moro halved his match, conceding a 27′ putt. The resilient Jason Warhurst came in 4 & 2 up. Steve Worrall, 3 changes of clothes later(!!), finished the job to put the Millers 6½ up.

Jack Sidebottom was back to winning ways coming in 5 & 4 against their low man & Elliott Brownsword, who never gives up, came from 3 down to lose on the last. Leaving young James Ignotus playing their experienced Captain, and Jimmy took another scalp on what has been a remarkable D & C season for him. Credit to Mellor Captain Mike Anderson & a very good Mellor team, who played the game in a respectful manner given all the difficulties on the evening.

Although having home advantage, conceding 35 shots & the ridiculous playing conditions, this was not only a test of ability but a measure of how mentally equipped, determined & stronger the Millers have become in match play.

A scrappy, battling performance is rewarded with a final against strong favourites Tytherington at Disley Golf Club Thursday 22nd August tee times 3.30 to 6pm. Please come and support the lads.

Regards, Darryl.

1st August 2024 – Final League Match & Semi-Final Information

Having already won Division A with a game to spare, the Millers travelled to Shrigley Hall on a blistering sunny afternoon. The Millers maintained good form, narrowly losing 13-11 to an impressive Shrigley side. Wins for Paul Holland, Mark Brooks, Oli De Rosenwerth, Sean Moore & Tony Hall, plus another good fight back from Ben Williams for the half.

The Millers squad finished 13pts clear of their nearest rivals & averaged an impressive 16.9 from 24pts per game home & away, finishing with the largest bonus point tally & winning 6 out of their 8 games.

The Semi-final date is Thursday August 15th 15.30-17-30 tee times at home versus local rivals Mellor & Townscliffe Golf Club. We are hopeful that members will come up to the club to support the lads.

24th July 2024 – Millers Win League A With a Game To Spare!!

Following other results, it is confirmed that the “Millers” have won D&C League ‘A’ with a game to spare, qualifying for the semi-finals with Home advantage. The team still have to play Shrigley Hall away next Thursday to complete all fixtures and they await their opponents being decided from League ‘B’.

9th July 2024 – Millers Go Top Of The Table!!

Arguably the biggest game of the season for both teams, although the first battle was against the weather with threatening storms predicted the game was given the go ahead & much to everyone’s surprise there was little rain to contend with. When everywhere else locally were experiencing torrential downpours.

New Mills 21 pts vs Houldsworth 5pts – Possibly our best performance this season as whoever won this match gained control of the group & potentially qualified for the semi-finals with a game to go. The score is flattering however as the majority of matches were finished on the 17^th & 18^th holes this is an example of how determined the lads were tonight.

Houldsworth meant business sending 8 single figure & 4 low teen handicap players, first out for the Millers the unbeaten James Ignotus who true to form racked up another convincing victory closely followed in by the in-form no nonsense Paul Holland who as usual gets the job done. Mark Brooks & Steve Worrall returning to winning ways Mark with the biggest win on the night 6 & 5 & Worrall closing in at the end utilising his experience when its tight. Jack Sidebottom is taking everything in his stride he beat their low man off 2 continuing his great season & worthy front man. Mr 18^th Ben Williams did it again 1 down going down the 18^th& birdies the hole with an 18′ put gaining a vital half against the impressive Houldsworth Captain. Mr Matchplay Sean Moore does it again with consecutive wins.

The highlight of the evening with the Millers Captain watching was Elliot Brownsword who was 3 down at one point fought his back to level going down the 18^th his opponent chipped in from 40yrds for an impressive birdie Elliott was on the green for two not prepared to just lag up & take the half he went at the hole and sank a 12′ put for a magnificent eagle & victory. Barry Lawson took on Crowther who was at the top of his game & battled back to level but Crowther birdied the 18^th after a solid battle. Oli De Rosenwerth lost marginally to the Houldsworth club captain. Then the two battle axes Jason Warhurst & Tony Hall (after a brief pit stop) brought in the rear with two more solid performances & wins.

This doesn’t mathematically quite see New Mills there but the Millers should be going to Shrigley Hall away knowing exactly what is needed if required.

6th July 2024 – Good Victory vs Reddish Vale!

After consecutive previous wins, New Mills D & C Team entertained Reddish Vale at home who were sitting 3rd, one position above New Mills in the league table, so a win was a must. Reddish Vale had a sent a very strong side with 7 single handicappers & 5 low teen men.

James Ignotus continued his unbelievable season with another win & Jack Sidebottom continued his great season with a further win. Ben Williams, the man you don’t want to be going down the 18th with, was as cool as ever secured victory on the 18th. Elliott Brownsword battled for a deserved half, Steve Worrall narrowly lost, so New Mills had the early advantage, but scores were close out on the course.

Barry Lawson used his experience and battled in with a win. Mark Brooks had a close game but just lost. Paul Holland continued his terrific season with another emphatic win. Then star of the day Sean Moore gets the team over the line with a convincing victory 5 & 4. The win secure but additional points will be the difference come August then Tony Hall & Oli De Rosenwerth returned with wins having both being behind in their respective games. Martin Wild had a memorable debut but just missed out after a good fight back.

The result shot New Mills straight to the top of the table with two games to play. Another difficult fixture next Tuesday is Houldsworth at home, who could be New Mill’s closest challengers. A win would almost certainly mean New Mills would qualify for the semi-finals in August.

27th June 2024 – Update

The D & C team had a very tough away fixture last week, although the Cavendish fairways were not playing particularly long due to the severe wet weather everywhere has had recently, however the greens were like lightning especially if you were left with any down hill putts.

New Mills were missing regulars Barry Lawson Paul Holland & unbeaten Elliott Brownsword, so Darryl Hall, Tony Hall & Chris Ashton were drafted back in. The game was neck & neck all the way to the end with James Ignotus having to get up and down on the tough 18th for a par halving his match giving away 5 shots but keeping his unbeaten run going. Mark Brooks won his match on the 18th after a 4 hour drive down from Northumberland. Ben Williams also won on the 18th giving away several shots as well & Jack Sidebottom continued his unbeaten season going with a 3 & 2 victory over their low handicapper & other good wins for Tony Hall & Captain Hall. J Warhurst, C Ashton, S Moore, S Milner, S Worrall Oli De Rosenworth all had close matches losing narrowly.

On the whole a very respectable performance/result 6 ½ to 5 ½ from an improving New Mills team .

New Mills entertained Marple golf club on Tuesday. With several of Marple’s low handicappers on an away trip, New Mills found themselves with the tough task of giving away 51 shots overall, despite home advantage. Ben Williams won 2&1, James Ignotus won again keeping his unbeaten record going. Jack Sidebottom lost on the 18th giving away 5 shots. Elliott Brownsword, despite shooting his seasons best gross of 73, lost 2 & 1. Paul Holland won by the biggest margin winning 7 & 5. Other good wins for Mark Brookes & Steven Worrall. Both Stuart Milner & Tony Hall narrowly lost on the 17th hole. Barry Lawson was 1 down on the 17th but managed to edge a very important half leaving the game poised at 5 ½ to 4 ½ with two groups still out for what seemed an eternity. Eventually Oli De Rosenwerth came up the 18th with a respectable par to half his match against an inform chairman of the league & Jason Warhurst held his nerve coming up the 18th to win 2 &1 after being behind for long spells of the match. Final result 7-5.

Quick turn around as the D & C team go to Romiley Thursday night, hopefully with a chance of some very important away points, then consecutive matches at home leaves them in with a chance.

16th May 2024 – Early Season Update

New Mills go top after two wins on the bounce.

The D & C team started the season off with a very hard fought away win at Macclesfield winning 7-5. Steve Worrall winning on the 18th and further wins for James Ignotus, Stuart Milner, Jack Sidebottom, Jason Warhurst, Elliott Brownsword & Oli De Rosenwerth.

Followed by a convincing win at home against a tough High Peak side – young guns Elliott Brownsword, Jack Sidebottom & James Ignotus recording two wins in a row, Jason Warhurst showing his experience as he wins two on the bounce. Other winners on the night were Barry Lawson, Ben Williams, Mark Brooks & Paul Holland.

Next up is Marple at home Tuesday 28th May.

Darryl Hall

2023 Season Summary

After leading for the majority of the season New Mills finished the season in joint second place in Division A, narrowly missing out on the semi finals by half a point. Its been a successful season with some impressive big wins, notably three big wins against Macclesfield, Romiley & Shrigley Hall Golf Clubs.

Barry Lawson had the best overall figures, Steve Worrall, Jack Miller, Stuart Milner, Elliott Brownsword, Paul Holland, Jack Sidebottom, Jason Warhurst & Oli De Rosenwerth were all close behind. With only eight league fixtures & New Mills having a great start to the season it was difficult to give everyone a game. We hope to organise a couple of friendlies before next season allowing us to incorporate additional players into the squad. There is a Derbyshire & Cheshire Trophy Day held at Marple Golf Club on Sunday 8^th October, we will be entering two teams.