A share of tenth place in the Cleveland Golf/Srixon Scottish Senior Open was the highlight of the former European Tour winner’s rookie season on the Senior Tour in 2009.

That was his first year back on Tour after a ten year sabbatical, during which time he coached Lincolnshire’s county team and managed his driving range and academy in Grimsby, Stephen Bennett Golf Academy.

Started playing golf aged 12 when four or five friends decided to try out Cleethorpes pitch and putt course.

A keen footballer, he immediately abandoned goalkeeping ambitions.

Turned pro in 1979 and won twice in Africa, the 1985 Tunisian Open and the 1986 Zimbabwe Open.

Coached by Eric Sharp, father-in-law of Gordon J. Brand. Saw Sharp for first time in five years before the 1998 Qualifying School - and won his card. Played against the USA in PGA Cup in 1998.