Bruce Light, who is a member of Ripon City Golf Club, has taken office as president of the Yorkshire Union of Golf Clubs.
Bruce follows Pike Hills-based Martin Greaves in the role, while Garforth’s Alan Garbutt is set to become president in 2027.
“I’m honoured to have become president of the Yorkshire union,” said retired police officer Bruce. “I’m incredibly grateful to Martin for his support and the pathway he has created for me, and mindful of providing Alan with the same foundation.
“We have a great team on the YUGC board, and to be the caretaker of the presidency for a year is a privilege. I’m hoping to enjoy the role and make the absolute most of,” added Bruce, who took up the game in 2006 at the age 50 and will be supported throughout this season by his wife, Liz.
Since 2018, Bruce has been actively involved with YUGC as a director and member of the executive committee. Formerly chair of Handicaps and Competitions and a past chair of Greens, he started refereeing in 2015 and for the past three years has held R&A Level 3 referee and tournament administrator accreditation. He is also a member of England Golf’s Chief Referees Panel, leads course rating for YUGC, and in 2020 introduced Golf Genius software for YUGC events.“I see the presidency role as one focused on supporting those around me and enabling those who represent Yorkshire to achieve excellence. We also support 183 clubs and promote the game across the county, and professionalism and attention to detail across the board – from teams and championships to administration – will continue to be at the heart of everything we do.
“On a personal note, there are many events circled in my diary – including those hosted by my home club, where I’ve received tremendous support – and I’m looking forward to supporting the men’s, boys’ and seniors’ teams. While aiming to win is important, as president it’s also key to continue the tremendous camaraderie between the golf unions and I look forward to meeting up with friends across the country this season. I’ll also continue refereeing when I can, and will be at the Brabazon Trophy at Moortown.
“Having been part of the team at many championships, I’ve learned the power of a friendly demeanour, a relaxed attitude while taking the game seriously when competing, and a packet of Haribos – to players all the way up to the age of 70 and beyond – and I look forward to continuing to offer all three of those to all our players as president.
“I’m also very keen to continue being part of the County Members events and will be teaming up with Martin for those while playing as much as I can around my various commitments this season.
“I hope this year brings success for all the players who represent Yorkshire, and I look forward to meeting golfers at clubs near and far throughout the season.”
Bruce takes on the role from Martin, with the pair having formed a strong friendship since meeting as members of the executive committee. Regular playing partners, including in team events with their wives, they agreed their handover was an easy one.
“Serving as president was a fantastic honour, I thoroughly enjoyed doing it, and it was a pleasure to pass the reins on to Bruce,” said Martin, who served as president following eight years as County Members secretary.
“There were so many highlights, beginning with supporting Team Yorkshire and seeing the boys’ and men’s teams retain their respective Northern Counties league titles. I enjoyed every game and have built what I hope will be lasting friendships across the north with fellow presidents and officials.
“The various championships were also highlights. Having built relationships with so many players, it was tremendous to see some of them achieve fantastic results. It was particularly good to support the Rotherham team as they represented England at the European Men’s Club Trophy, while the success of all those who represented us in 2025, or have represented Yorkshire in the past, was great to see.
“I’d like to say a huge thank you to all those who have supported me over the last year – from all involved with the union to the clubs and counties who welcomed us. A special thank you must also go to my family for their unwavering support. I wish all the players every success in the year to come, and I hope Bruce enjoys being president as much as I did.”
The AGM at Pannal Golf Club also saw Alan confirmed as president-elect. A member of Garforth, Alan joined the executive committee in 2017 and has led the organisation of the county dinner in recent years.
“It was quite a surprise when I was asked if I’d like to be president for 2027,” said Alan, a project manager in the construction industry who has held many roles at Garforth over the last 30 years. “It’s a tremendous honour to be the fifth member from Garforth to be proposed as president of the union, and I hope to build on what each of them has done for our club and the county. I’ve enjoyed being involved in the county system for many years and I look forward to learning from the past presidents and Bruce, supporting our teams, and preparing for what lies ahead.”
