England golfers clinch victory at Preston

Annabell Fuller in action for England against Spain at Preston Golf Club

They won the Under-16s match 15-9, finally getting the better of their visitors who had won the annual event three years running.

Preston had staged the tournament for the first time, with organisers England Golf describing the club’s support as ‘outstanding’.

The two-day fixture which was played on Saturday and Sunday, was a mixed event, with foursomes and singles play.

Charlie Hilton (left) watches his Spanish opponent on the greens

Peter Barber, the England coach, said: “The team were very keen not to lose for a fourth time and they performed fantastically.

“They all played a part in the win, which was great.

“Both teams played very good golf and the standard was very high.”

On the first day, England won all eight singles games and led 10-2 at the close of play.

Dominic Clemons in action for England Under-16s at Preston Golf Club

The host country then took 2.5 points from the foursomes on the second day to reach the 12.5 points needed to lift the trophy.

Barclay Brown was England’s top scorer, the 16-year-old winning all four of his games.

Annabell Fuller, 15, was unbeaten with three wins and a half.

Barber, who played for England as a boy, said: “It is such a proud moment to play for England.

Annabell Fuller in full swing at Preston Golf Club

“If you win, you will always remember the day, who you played and how you won – I still do.”

A spokesman for Preston Golf Club said: “The event went very well.

“The Spanish team were truly delightful people and we thoroughly enjoyed their company.”

Among the spectators at the event was former Preston goalkeeper Andrew Lonergan.

The England team was: Barclay Brown, Dominic Clemons, Annabell Fuller, Charlie Hilton, Lily May Humphreys, Mimi Rhodes, Caitlin Whitehead and Tom Gregory.