NORMAN Hodgkiss, aged 73, of Chipping Sodbury succeeded Lilley Brook's Ralph Crisp as president of the Gloucestershire Golf Union at the county's annual meeting at Minchinhampton.

He was born and educated in Bristol. He served with the Royal Engineers in North Africa and Egypt. He moved to Chipping Sodbury in 1958.

He was an active member and past chairman of Sodbury and District Round Table until 1964, moving on to the 41 Club.

The 19-handicapper joined Chipping Sodbury in 1959 and served on the committee for several years before he became captain in 1976. This was a memorable time for the club. The present 18-hole golf course was constructed in 1971 and a new clubhouse built in 1976.

His Captain's Day marked the official opening of the new clubhouse. In 1999 he was appointed President of the Chipping Sodbury.

In 1986 he was captain of The Gloucestershire Golf Captains' Society and in 1996 became president for two years.

Before retirement he was area sales manager for International Paint Industrial Division responsible for South Wales and South West England.

Such is the prowess of his public speaking, he is still asked to go to their annual meetings as guest speaker.

Norman's wife Jean is also a member at Sodbury. But she will not see much of him this year as he has already accepted 82 invitations to events throughout the South West of England and South Wales.

Brian Carnie of Broadway is the new vice president.