A CUMBRIAN golf club have wished a very happy birthday to their much respected golf course ranger - who may be the oldest in the country.

William Clark recently celebrated his 90th birthday and is being hailed England’s oldest golf course ranger.

More commonly known as Bill, he has been a loyal member of Maryport Golf Club for 30 years and is a key member of the senior gents squad: the Bankenders.

Over the years and since retiring, he has volunteered his time to different sections of the golf club, encouraging others to get involved in the sport and supporting the hobby he loves the most.

For the last four years he has volunteered as course ranger and has loved chatting to visitors and encouraging repeat visitors to become members.

He said: “Sometimes I am the first port of call for new members and visitors, and really enjoy getting to know them, sharing some of my course knowledge, and of course, checking that they have paid their fees – I’m a Scotsman after all.”

An esteemed golfer in his own right, Bill has won countless trophies during his career.

Bill is also a keen volunteer and supporter of the juniors section of Maryport Golf Club, and spends countless hours showing the next generation of golfers how it's done. The juniors too enjoy his company. One said: “Bill is great and is very patient with us”.

Another added: “Our juniors section is the best because of people like Bill that give up their time”.

Dean Whitham, club captain, said: “Happy birthday Bill. It’s members like you that make Maryport Golf Club special. Thank you for your loyalty and commitment, on behalf of me and all of our members.

"The support you give and the time you give so willingly is much appreciated, the next bitter shandy is on me.”