Prince Andrew at Cooden Beach

PRINCE Andrew made a surprise visit to Cooden Beach Golf Club.
By The Newsroom
Published 16th Sep 2004, 16:42 BST
Updated 7th Jun 2018, 20:09 BST

Members turned out in force for a trophy presentation night with a difference.

The Duke of York was visiting in his role at Patron of the Firemen's Sports Association.

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Cooden Beach member Martin Thompson has been secretary of the London Fire Brigade Southern Command Golfing Society for 15 years and was able, in conjunction with Buckingham Palace, to arrange the prince's visit.

The proposed trip had been kept quiet for security reasons.

Prince Andrew was in good form as he chatted with many Cooden Beach members before presenting the Duke's Shield to the winner of the Golfing Society's annual tournament.

Arriving by helicopter, the Duke was accompanied by the Vice Lord Lieutenant of Sussex, Peter Field.

Martin Thompson introduced the royal visitor to club captain Kevin Owen and general manager Keith Wiley.