Michael Parkinson, a founder member of the Anti-Golf Society, was yesterday installed at the new president of The Oxfordshire Golf Club, near Thame.

Michael ParkinsonThe famous television chat show host, a 16-handicap member of Temple and Wentworth, filled the void left following the death of the highly respected Myles Boddington.

Parkinson was appointed by Paul Gibbons, owner of the Leaderboard Group of golf clubs, who bought the club last summer.

"I've changed my mind about golf," said Parkinson. "It's a great game. I wish I'd taken it up earlier. I'm delighted to be president."