Royal Wimbledon stalwart Chris Gotla claimed the Surrey Senior Golf Championship title at Bramley last week.

The 55-year-old was among three players who shared the half-way lead with a three over par 73 on the tricky parkland course.

Despite dropping three shots in the last four holes of his second round, Gotla still posted an excellent 71 to finish on 144, three shots ahead of runner-up Ron Burgess, of Hindhead.

"I went into the event not really knowing what to expect and I was delighted to come out on top," said Gotla, who was persuaded to take up golf at the age of 10 by his family in Leicestershire.

He honed his skills at St Andrews University and later became Leicestershire county champion.

After moving to south London, Gotla joined Royal Wimbledon where he became club champion.

It has been a hectic spell for Gotla, who, as a member of the R and A, was a referee and member of the rules committee at the 150th Open Championship at St. Andrews last month He also left his post as a director of Cannons Health Clubs to become club secretary at North Hants GC just two weeks ago.

"It is a terrific club and I have been made really welcome,"he said. "I suppose there might now be a bit of pressure on me to switch my county allegiance, but I will certainly be proud to defend my Surrey title next year."