SANDFORD Springs Golf Club's new president Dickie Davies ensured the official re-launch of the Kingsclere-based 27-hole course was an event to remember.

The former ITV World of Sport host carried out his first duties in the role by opening the door to the new-look clubhouse.

Sandford's owners, The Leaderboard Group, have invested £2million on a refurbishment and course improvement programme since buying the club four years ago.

On the course, there is a new 27-hole drainage and irrigation system to allow for golf 52 weeks of the year, plus a covered eight-bay driving range and landscaped putting area.

Inside the lavish clubhouse, the reception area has been upgraded and the Fairway Suite added.

The results were there to see for the large number of members and guests, including television soap celebrities Michael Greco and Ian Kelsey.

Joining Davies at the opening ceremony were Leaderboard owners Paul and Jennifer Gibbons.

Paul Gibbons thanked members and past captains for their patience while improvements took place, and he also praised staff for the welcoming atmosphere they create at the club.

He then added: "Since we took over Sandford Springs, we have never had a president but Jennifer and I decided that person must be the right one.

"It has taken us four years, but in Dickie Davies we have found that person. It is a privilege to have him as our president at Sandford Springs.

"He finds time to talk with every single person at the golf club and, amazingly, remembers their names, so that everyone he speaks to feels very important."

With wife Liz alongside him, Davies, who lives in the Test Valley, said: "I first met Paul at a Sparks charity event. He asked me to lunch here and then surprised me completely when he suggested I become president.

"I suddenly knew how George W Bush felt! But it is an honour to be president at this prestigious club and marvellous to be involved.

"I pledge to make as big a contribution as I can to helping people enjoy Sandford Springs as much as I do."

Golfers who want to experience the improved facilities should contact the golf office on 01635 296 800 to book a round on a combination of either the Woods, Lakes or Parks 27-hole loop.