A golf club steward signed off in style when he retired after two decades of managing the '19th hole'.

David Howarth finished work at Chorley Golf Club last week 20 years to the day after he teed off in the job.

The 64-year-old celebrated with a party at the Hall o' th' Hill clubhouse, Heath Charnock.

David and his wife Margaret were joined at his retirement bash by the 20 club captains from each year of his time at the club and a further 100 family and friends.

He said: "I've loved every day of my time here. It's a wonderful job for someone who loves golf.

"The course is hilly and full of spectacular views of Rivington Pike and the moorland. I've made countless friends here and will leave with fantastic memories of the place."

It is not the end of David's association with Chorley Golf Club however, as he has been invited to become club captain beginning in February.

"To be asked is a terrific honour. I'm looking forward to it, although my handicap has risen to 18. But I'll have more time to practise my swing now," he said.

One of David's party pieces is his Elvis impersonation. But for his farewell he emulated another rock legend's famous video.

"I surprised all the guests by bursting into the room in drag, holding a hoover singing the Freddie Mercury song 'I Want to Break Free'. Well you don't retire every day do you?" he said.