Graham Webb’s outstanding commitment to golf in Leicestershire and Rutland as a player, captain, secretary, president and county and national referee has earned him the Gerald Micklem Award from England Golf.
Graham was recognised for his lifelong contribution to the game surrounded by many friends and colleagues at today’s England Golf AGM held at the National Golf Centre, Woodhall Spa.
The Gerald Micklem Award – named in honour of the former English Amateur champion and Walker Cup player – was set up in 1990 by England Golf. On an annual basis, it recognises those unsung individuals who have made a positive difference to the amateur game in England.
Born in Belgrave, Leicester in 1939, Graham’s interest in golf has burned brightly throughout his life and the game has allowed him to develop many relationships and friendships both in the local area and nationally. Having joined Kirby Muxloe Golf Club back in 1974, Graham then began a love affair with the club which saw him hold the roles of Honorary Secretary and Assistant Treasurer as well as his year as Club Captain in 1987.
Recognition on the county circuit was to follow as he became Vice-President then subsequently President of the Leicestershire and Rutland Golf Union, simultaneously taking up a role as a county referee.
Naturally, Graham’s achievements at county level were then recognised on the national stage as he became at tutor for England Golf’s rules schools as well as referee for eight Home Internationals and The Open.
Away from the course, Graham has played an integral part in the ‘Toys on the Table’ project led by the Leicestershire and Rutland Golf Captains for the past ten years. In 2022, almost 5,000 toys were donated to 15,000 disadvantaged children in the Leicestershire area as Graham and the society continue to seek ways of giving back to those less fortunate in their local community.
Outgoing England Golf president Les Wilson presented Graham with his award to warm applause from attendees at the AGM.
“It’s unbelievable. I’ve done all my roles throughout the years because I’ve thoroughly enjoyed them and got satisfaction from them,” said Graham. “I thought it was one of these joke letters when I received it so it’s staggering really.
“I must say a huge thank you to everyone at Kirby Muxloe Golf Club. It’s a great club with a fantastic social side and I only live five minutes away so it’s ideal for me. I’m just starting my 50th year on the club council without stopping and I wouldn’t have changed a minute.
“Refereeing for England Golf still gives me great pleasure even now and I absolutely love getting around the country and having good times and laughs.
“The work I’ve done outside of golf has been the best thing. The Toys on the Table project saw 15,000 toys donated to over 5,000 children in the Leicestershire area last year thanks to the Leicestershire and Rutland Golf Captains and that is something I’m tremendously proud of.”