Jackie Gilson's previous sporting achievements and current profession were the twin themes as she drove into office as Studley Wood Golf Club's new ladies captain.

A former hockey player with Headington Ladies, until taking up golf seven years ago, Jackie is a physical education teacher at Bicester Community College,

So, wearing a mortarboard and cloak, and wielding a hockey stick, Jackie stepped on to the men's first tee for the official drive-in, along with the new men's captain Tim Harris.

"I know I looked pretty stupid, but I just about hit the golf ball beyond the ladies tee," said a relieved Jackie, who plays off a 15 handicap.

Tim, meanwhile, is likely to set a record for distance travelled during his year in office, as he has just bought a home in the south of France.

"I'll be travelling back to England about one week in four," said the eight-handicapper, who runs an electrical business.

The new captains' chosen charity this year is the Helen House Hospice, whose funds should be boosted if Jackie succeeds with her current sponsored slim.

"If I reach my target of losing two stone, and keep the weight off, I've been promised more than £1,000 in sponsorship for the charity," she explained.