DEFENDING champions Stoke by Nayland Golf Club have reached the Norman Plum Trophy semi-finals.

They beat last year's fellow finalists Theydon Bois in their quarter-final and won by the same 4-2 scoreline.

Stoke by Nayland's players won all three of their matches, in their home match.

At Theydon Bois it was a different story but Trevor Brace and Dan Goddard secured the win needed to ensure the overall victory.

Captain John Sandford and his team will now face Woolston Manor, in the semi-final.

Results: Home: Paul Nuttall/Steve Hewett won 2/1, Luke Bennett/Liam Wordsdell won 4/3, Mike Moore/Steve Evans won 5/4.

Away: Dean Brace/Byron Long lost 3/2, Trevor Brace/Dan Goddard won 5/3, Tim Dickens/Keith Hodgson lost 5/4.

Stoke by Nayland's Lady Vets played the Hilda Rule Rose Bowl Medal.

Despite the driving rain, the match was well supported.

The Rose Bowl was presented by the club's past Lady Vets captain Joce Mallett to Elaine Davidson, who won with a nett 77.

Maryan Griffiths was second with 81, ahead of third-placed Nora Hutchinson (83).

The club's social members joined the current players for a well-deserved lunch, where they shared their memories of times past.

Stoke by Nayland's Ladies had their weekly stableford competition, on the Constable course.

Jan Partner was the overall winner with an amazing 43 points.

A total of 33 ladies took part and the course was in great condition, benefiting from the recent rain fall which help to make the greens more receptive.

Result, Silver Division: 1st Bev Thompson 34pts; 2nd Pamela Randle 33pts ocb; 3rd Mal Went 33pts.

Bronze Division: 1st Jan Partner 43pts; 2nd Edel Rew 37pts; 3rd Alison Jennings 36pts.

Junior Flag Medal: 1st William Kibbler 78 – 12 = 66; 2nd Isaac Tombs 87 – 19 = 68; 3rd Max Toombs 83 – 12 = 71.