The Inter Club ladies teams competitions in Cheshire are split into East and West with teams aiming to win in the four categories of Business Ladies, A, B and Plate (determined by handicaps) and reach their geographical finals and then to take on the other area winners to become county champions.
In East Cheshire there are 36 clubs taking part with 91 teams in total and in any given week there are 20-30 matches taking place with the teams competing to qualify for the knock-out rounds in August and September. The finals take place this year at Prestbury (the home club of ECICS Chair Caroline Harrison-Croft- who is also running the MDLGA Bell Cup).
The winners then go into the finals against the West Cheshire champions at Bromborough and Heswall in early October.
The new secretary of ECICS is Jane Welch of Knutsford Golf Club who outlined her time in golf which has taken her into this role.
Jane ( pictured) said: “In the Spring of 2017 I was really pleased to get involved with the ‘Get into Golf’ program for lady golfers running at Knutsford Golf Club.
“I had recently retired and was looking for something new.
“After a few sessions with our encouraging club professional, Tim Maxwell, I was hooked – second hand clubs purchased off ebay and initial handicap of 35 in place within a few months.
“I am a firm believer in volunteering to take on roles in organisations – the more I put in, the more I get back. I have had various committee roles at Knutsford Golf Club – Friendly Match Organiser, and Competitions and Handicaps Secretary.
“Playing in matches against local clubs is a real pleasure over the summer months.
“Last season I took on the role of results co-ordinator for the Plate Team Matches, and as from October 2025 I have been in post as Secretary of ECICS (East Cheshire Inter Club Shield). We have a very supportive and friendly committee.
“There is a wonderful community of people involved in golf and I have had so many great days out visiting clubs around the country and abroad with my new friends and my husband.
“Our favourite day out is a round of golf accompanied by our lively companion Barney, the cocker spaniel.
“This is a shout-out to the enlightened clubs that allow him on the course – Wentworth Golf Club setting a standard with special sausages at the Halfway House!
“At ECICS we are always looking for enthusiastic ladies to involve themselves with the running of the leagues. So please get in touch if you are interested and check out our website www.ecics.co.uk.”
Copy & image: Geoff Garnett
