Only the fourth Wiltshire player ever to be capped for England, Ben Loughrey was picked to play against Spain at The Berkshire on 7 and 8th May. But before the play started a minutes silence was observed by the players, officials and spectators to mark the passing of the Spanish hero and legend of the game, Seve Ballesteros. After the silence the Championship Chairman, John Williams called for a round of applause...and it didn't stop. A heartfelt tribute from all who felt a connection to one of the all time greats.

Inspired in the morning the Spanish players were unbeatable, winning the Foursomes 3 1/2 to 1/2 with Ben and his partner losing a very tight match after 3 putting the 17th. In the afternoon Ben stood down and the side recovered to share the points from the singles 4 all but taking a 3 point disadvantage into the second day.

Scheduled to play both Foursomes and Singles, Ben teamed up again with James Burnett in the morning as the English team fought back. Another close match but Ben and James won the 17th and they looked comfortable as the Spanish pair found the trees up the last. But a great recovery to the back of the green was followed by a brave 30 foot par putt to force the English pair to two putt for the win. James rolled the ball down to the hole side and we breathed a sigh of relief! The Foursomes scores were reversed from the first day so the sides went into lunch with the match tied at 8-8.

In the singles Ben was drawn against Adria Arnaus, only 16 and quite a talent, remember that name. Spurred on by a large group of supporters that was joined by County Captain Kevin Phillips and tour player David Howell, Ben was always in control. Par and birdie golf, some great up and downs and a final pitch on the 14th to four feet for another birdie to cap a 5 and 4 win. The rest of the England team also responded to take the singles and the overall match by 13 1/2 to 10 1/2.

Well done Ben, the County is proud of you.

Ben drives off at The Berkshire...head down, good extension, great camera work!

Ben with a proud mum, Gill, and dad, Barry in the new England kit.