DOWNES Crediton Golf Club said goodbye to its professional of more than 17 years at the end of last month with presentations of gifts and a special tournament in which many people took part.

The day before he left, Barry Austin took to social media and said: “So the day has come and with mixed emotions, I’m sad to say tomorrow sees my last day at Downes Crediton Golf Club as your Head Professional.

“I can’t emphasise how much I have enjoyed and how much fun I have had over the 17-and-a-half years I have worked here, it has been an absolute pleasure.

“Thank you to the members of this club, past and present, that gave me this opportunity all those years ago to be your Head Professional and represent this wonderful club, it has been a great ride.

“But most of all thank you to you, the members, for the chats, the friendship, the laughs we have shared as well as the kindness you have shown to me and my family, it has made coming into work a joy.

“This is Au Revoir, not goodbye as I remain affiliated to the club so I hope to see you at some point at the club.

“Once again, a heartfelt thank you to you all, big hugs all around and all the very best from your Head Professional.  I hope at some point I’ve managed to brighten up your day!”