PUB landlord Tim Simpson has struck a hole in one – in his first round of golf.

Simpson bought the White Swan at Eardisland four years ago – and put last week’s success down to watching the film, Happy Gilmore.

“I did watch Happy Gilmore on television a few nights before I played my first game of golf,” he said.

“It’s about a rejected hockey player who puts his skills to the golf course to save his grandmother's house.

“I must have got lucky - I did not even know what a hole in one was.

“This was the first time I have had a game of golf but I will definitely be playing again.”

Simpson, 52, achieved his memorable feat with a five-iron on the seventh hole at The Grove. He finished the round in 57.

He was playing with head chef Ross Chance and friend Adrian Jeenes.

Roger Helme, who runs The Grove, said: “Some golfers go a lifetime without achieving a hole-in-one and Tim has got one the first time in which he has played.”

Simpson said: “I used to play rugby but I have been brewing my own beer - Simpsons Fine Ales.

“Golf is great for camaraderie and friendships and I have told Roger Helme that when I come back next time to the club I will bring a free barrel of beer to celebrate.”