Shropshire golf legend Sandy Lyle honoured

Shrewsbury-born Lyle along with fellow Brit Nick Faldo will join an elite group of players honoured by the home of golf.

Lyle grew up playing his golf at Hawkstone Park where his father Alex was the club professional.

The 57-year-old, who was awarded the MBE in 1987, won the Open Championship at Royal St George's in 1985 – the first home winner since Tony Jacklin in 1969.

He then became the first British player to wear the prestigious Green Jacket at Augusta when he landed The Masters in 1988. He won a further four events on the PGA Tour, including the 1987 Players Championship, and 16 events on the European Tour.

"I am delighted to receive this recognition," said Lyle. "It was a lifetime ambition for me to win The Open and I will never forget how it felt to lift the Claret Jug.

"Golf has given me a great deal over the years and I feel privileged to have been invited to become part of this great Club."

Along with Faldo and Oswestry's Ian Woosnam, Lyle led the resurgence of British golf around the world in the 80s.

Lyle also led the European Tour Order of Merit in 1979, 1980 and 1985 and represented Europe in the Ryder Cup on five occasions. He now plays on the European Senior Tour and the Champions Tour.

George Macgregor OBE, the Captain of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club, said, "Sir Nick Faldo and Sandy Lyle have enjoyed long and successful careers and are wonderful ambassadors for golf.

"They were instrumental in leading the resurgence of British golf and have undoubtedly been role models for subsequent generations of golfers. We are extremely pleased that they have accepted invitations to become honorary members of the Club."

Lyle and Faldo join fellow Open winners Peter Thomson, Gary Player, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Roberto de Vicenzo, Tony Jacklin, Lee Trevino and Tom Watson in becoming honorary members.