Plaxton named new England captain

Jonathan Plaxton is to become the new England captain following the English Golf Union's AGM on February 21.

Bloice annouced in the autumn of 2006 that he would be stepping down after four years in charge. Plaxton brings a wealth of experience to the role, having been capped as a player at every level, including starring as a full international between 1983 and 1985.

Plaxton, who was regarded as one of the country's finest amateurs in the early 1980s, also has plenty of captaincy experience, having led England as a schoolboy in 1978.

The highlights of his successful amatuer career include a victory in the 1978 Carris Trophy and qualification for the 1982 and 1983 Open Championships. He is currently a director of Fulford Golf Club, having served as captain in 2003. He also chaired last year's centenary committee.

His first match in charge of the England team will be the fixture against Spain at Royal Ashdown Forest on May 12 and 13. He is understandably delighted at being given such a prestigious role.

"It's a great honour to be asked to captain your country in a sport that I have always been passionate about," said the 45-year-old adopted Yorkshireman.

"When I was asked it came as a complete surprise. I hadn't anticipated it and it never crossed my mind that I would be given the opportunity. But I am delighted and looking forward to getting into the job."