Emotional farewell for Bennett at Pennard

Mike Bennett (above left), who has retired as Pennard Golf Club’s PGA professional after 40 years, was “overwhelmed” by the accolades, gifts and plaudits he received at a special dinner in his honour at Swansea’s Liberty Stadium.

Many fellow PGA professionals, several of his former assistants, and friends from all over the United Kingdom were among 535 people who paid tribute at a memorable event.

He was made an honorary life member and a vice president of the club in recognition of his devoted service. The club members also presented a £5,000 cheque and a bound volume which contained special messages and signed pictures from leading players. Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Greg Norman, Tom Watson, Bernhard Langer, Peter Alliss, Lee Westwood and Darren Clarke were among the signatories.

St Mellons PGA professional Barry Thomas (above right), the chairman of the South Wales PGA, presented a silver dish as a memento from the PGA to thank him for his service to golf in South Wales and at his club. Glenn Ross, secretary of the PGA in England and Wales (South West) reflected on his career.

Bennett, 65, was born in Burry Port and introduced to golf at Ashburnham Golf Club where he became an assistant and played occasional professional tournaments. He then spent two years as assistant to former Pennard pro Bill Evans at Sudbrook Park before returning to Wales from London where he completed his career, primarily as a highly-regarded teacher.

He made a moving speech, thanking the PGA and Pennard Golf Club and its members for many years of support and friendship.

He said: “It was a fantastic evening and I didn’t sleep much for about six weeks because of the excitement that was building. It was quite emotional seeing so many friends and then making a speech.”