RESIDENTS at Birkdale Tower Care Home in Southport swapped the grandstands of Royal Birkdale for their own putting green as they staged a special golf day to celebrate The Open Championship taking place just a stone's throw away.

The home, part of Sandstone Care Group, embraced the excitement surrounding 1 of golf's most prestigious tournaments by hosting its own friendly competition, complete with putting challenges, certificates and even a couple of hole-in-ones.

Residents Patricia Dutton and Angela Taylor both impressed fellow competitors by sinking a hole-in-1 during the event. In recognition of their achievement, they were presented with special awards, while every participant received a certificate to celebrate taking part.

For Angela, the occasion carried extra significance. A long-time golfer, she was previously a member of Royal Birkdale Golf Club and still enjoys playing the sport. She also continues to give speeches at the famous club, making the home's celebration a fitting way to mark The Open in Southport.

Liam Kenwright, home manager at Birkdale Tower Care Home, said:- "With The Open taking place right here in Southport, we wanted to make sure our residents could be part of the excitement. Having our own putting green meant we could bring a little bit of the championship to Birkdale Tower, and it was wonderful to see everyone getting involved. Patricia and Angela's hole-in-ones certainly stole the show, and Angela's long association with Royal Birkdale made the day even more special. Events like this are a brilliant way of keeping residents active while celebrating something that means so much to the local community."

Patricia Dutton said:- "I never expected to get a hole-in-1, so it was a lovely surprise. We all had such a wonderful afternoon and it was great fun taking part together."

Angela Taylor added:- "Golf has always been a big part of my life, so it was lovely to celebrate The Open with everyone here. The team put on a fantastic day and it brought back some wonderful memories of Royal Birkdale. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute."