GORDON Smith has taken his clubs home for the last time, having decided to retire from golf at the age of 96.

Fifty-five years and 5,000 rounds have passed by since he first joined Alderley Edge Golf Club in February, 1963, to play social and competitive golf.

But that was just the start, having been closely involved with the management of the club serving on the house committee.

Gordon won the prestigious Captain’s Prize and Hospital Trophy, both majors at Alderley Edge Golf Club and his lowest handicap was nine.

His last recorded handicap of 26 was about four years ago.

Gordon achieved six hole-in-ones at Alderley Edge Golf Club and reckons he must have paid in the region of £15,000 on subs – and £25,000 in the bar.

He was appointed club captain in 1975, club president in 1985 and 1986 and became an honorary member in 2007.

Gordon will still call in at the club for lunch on a Wednesday and attend social events but he will not be booking the 2pm Thursday slot any more.

He believes that the secret of his longevity has been a weekly game of golf.