The 40th playing of the Cheshunt Salver against Essex Boys concluded in a closely contested match, decided on the final green. With the overall scores level and Ollie Ockelford one up going to the 18th tee, he knew that a halved hole would secure outright retention of the trophy, while a loss would result in it being shared. Both players negotiated the par‑4 in exemplary fashion, halving the hole and confirming Hertfordshire’s victory.
The teams comprised twelve under‑18 players, six of whom were required to be under 16. Essex held a narrow advantage after the morning foursomes, leading 3½–2½ at lunch. Standout performances included Marcus Karim and Freddie Buck, who recorded an impressive 4&3 win against far older opposition. Home players Ollie Bannister and Louis Batrick‑Wren produced a decisive run of three consecutive birdies to turn a one‑shot deficit into a two‑shot lead, which they maintained to the finish.
Hertfordshire made a slow start in the afternoon singles, collecting just two half points from the opening four matches. However, victories from Luca Lancaster, Louis Batrick‑Wren, Nick Curran, James Andrews and Freddie Buck shifted the momentum. Despite two further defeats, Ollie Ockeford secured the crucial point that sealed a 9½–8½ overall win.
The county extends its thanks to Bishop’s Stortford Golf Club for hosting the fixture. The organisation and hospitality were excellent, and the course—particularly the greens—was presented in outstanding condition for the time of year.
