MEMBERS of Hexham Golf Club recently gathered to plant an oak tree in recognition of Her late Majesty's 70 years of service.

The planting, part of the Queen's Green Canopy initiative, was especially poignant following her passing, the golf club said.

The tree was planted at the western end of the avenue of trees between the fifteenth and seventeenth fairways by golfers Margaret Pickard and Matty Lamb.

Margaret won the English Amateur championship in 1960 aged 22, played for the GB&I Curtis Cup team in 1968 and 1970 and represented Northumberland in the county team for 33 consecutive years.

Matty was selected to play in last year’s GB&I Walker Cup Team in the United States and was the top points scorer for GB&I team winning 3 out of 4 points. He has just completed his rookie season as a professional.

The planting was followed by a celebration in the clubhouse, where plaques were unveiled in recognition of both of their individual achievements.