North East: Durham appoints youngest-ever secretary

Durham Golf Partnership’s county development officer Jonathan Ward is set to become the youngest person to operate as secretary of Durham County Golf Union when he starts his new role in January.

Ward, 42, will replace Graham Hope, who is set to take over as president of the union next year.

“I’m honoured to be chosen as the next men’s county secretary,” said Ward, of South Shields. “I look forward to the new challenge of continuing the great work that Graham Hope has done over the years.

“Appointing a younger county secretary is, I feel, a positive move and a statement of intent which shows that DCGU is looking to modernise the way they administer coaching, teams and championships.”