GOLFERS at a Rochford golf club were invited to ‘break a leg’ on Sunday morning as their new captains took part in their inaugural drive-in dressed as characters from the hit musical Oliver!

Bob Paton, 61 and his wife Penny, 62, became the first married couple to hold the positions of club and ladies captain at Ballards Gore golf club.

The husband-and-wife team, dressed as Fagin and Nancy for the ceremony, were accompanied by seven children dressed as characters from the show including Oliver and the Artful Dodger.

Club members were invited to take part in a ‘Guess the Attire’ competition which raised almost £180 for the RNLI. Stalls and games run on the day also raised money for what is Mr Paton’s nominated charity for the year.

The costumes worn by the golfers were on loan from the Southend-based Theatrical Costume House store, which is creating all the costumes for the regional productions of the show.

Mr Paton said: “It was really good fun getting dressed up.

“When we did the drive-in Penny was given a dummy ball which exploded when she hit it, but on her second go she hit a really good ball. When it was my turn I managed to hit my ball into the lake!

“It was a lovely day and we really enjoyed it.

“All the members were so supportive and despite the fire which destroyed our club house the spirit was tremendous.”