BOLTON'S lone representatives in the International Pairs golf trophies competition just failed to make the final cut.

Graham Fullarton and Alan Ramwell won the Turton men's pairs qualifying round which rewarded them with a trip to Ireland.

They joined almost 800 club golfers from across the UK which qualified for the semi-finals played in Ireland at nine venues.

The local pair played at Kilkea Castle and were impressed with the course.

Fullarton said: "It was a big course played around an old castle. Unfortunately we didn't make the final but it was a great trip and would recommend anybody to take part in the event."

The final was played at the Mount Wolseley championship golf course, designed by Christy O'Connor Jnr.

The event is open to men's, ladies and mixed pairs and costs £5 to enter. As long as 25 pairs from one club enter, the winners are guaranteed a free trip to Ireland to compete in the semi-finals.

For more information about the International pairs 2002 competition contact the event helpline on 0392827000.