One of Newark Golf Club’s favourite sons, former RAF Group Captain Walter Hughes who lived in Long Bennington, Nottinghamshire has died at the age of 88

A community sports club has mourned the loss of one of its most predominant members and shared fond memories of the man.

Walter Hughes who was widely regarded as the ‘Grand Old Man’ of Newark Golf Club, died at the age of 88.

He lived in Long Bennington and was a member of his beloved Golf Club for well over forty years.

A spokesman from the club said that Walter was one of their most respected and influential members.

Walter was appointed club captain in 1994, was elected to the board of directors three years later and became chairman in 1998, a position he was to hold for several years.

Fraser Macintyre, Newark Golf Club’s current oresident, paid tribute to

Mr Hughes, saying: "Walter was a thorough gentleman and always had the interests of the Club utmost in his thoughts.

"I and many others would consult Walter on many issues and he always gave help and advice when needed.

"When Walter spoke, you always listened.

"He will be sorely missed.’

Mr Hughes retired from the RAF in 1990, with the rank of Group Captain.

"With his luxuriant moustache and urbane demeanour he was every inch the image of a dashing pilot," said a club spokesman.

"However, when asked what sort of plane he flew, he would reply: I was a brown bomber, old boy, I flew a desk."

In his later years, Mr Hughes was a stalwart of the Club’s Seniors’ Section, whose secretary Paul Speakman said: ‘I am sure I speak for all Seniors who knew Walter.

"His knowledge, wisdom, friendship, and support will be greatly missed.”