Arnold Palmer letter shock for town golfer

Correspondence arrived after legend’s death

GOLFER Paul Broadhurst has described his shock at receiving a letter from golfing legend Arnold Palmer.

Broadhurst received the letter five days after Palmer passed away, congratulating him for his victory in the Pebble Beach Golf Links a fortnight ago.

The Fenny Drayton golfer, who celebrated the third win of his professional career in California since becoming a Senior golfer last year, received the letter upon his return home.

He said: “It was surreal really, initially I thought it must be an invite to his event in Florida.

“But then I started reading it and it was just to say well done for winning in America. It was overwhelming really. It was surreal as he has passed away by the time I was reading it.

“I never had the pleasure of meeting Arnold. So for him to take time out to write to me was really special. You could tell from what was in the letter he had watched me play as well.

“When you receive praise like that, well, it makes it all worthwhile. The letter is getting framed.

“Arnold was a fans’ favourite, he always had time for the fans, he is a true legend of the game.”

Palmer, who won seven major championships during his career, is generally regarded as one of the game’s greatest ever players.

He passed away on September 25, aged 87.

The letter read: “Dear Paul. Congratulations on your victory Sunday in the First Tee tournament at Pebble Beach.

“You certainly didn’t let that long wait you had at the last hole bother you.

“Solid birdie for the win. You are doing very well in senior golf, I must say.

“Sincerely, Arnold Palmer.”