A FORMER US Open champion urged youngsters at Knutsford Golf Club to not let bad scores leave them feeling down when he paid a visit.

Graeme McDowell came to town to hand out the prizes at the junior section’s annual presentation, during which he passed on his expert advice.

“He urged to put setbacks behind them,” said John Eccles.

“More than that, he encouraged them to use disappointment as a spur to move on to better things.

“Practice is the key to doing that.”

McDowell, 38, had travelled to Knutsford from Scotland along with caddy Ken Comboy, whose children are members.

The Northern Ireland star carded a final-day 67 during the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship at St Andrews to classify 15th overall.

Harry Cusselle, who received the President’s Day prize, will take over as junior captain.

“It’s a great honour for a lovely lad,” said Tim Maxwell, the club’s PGA professional.

Prize-winners

Professional’s Day, Poppy McClennon; Weston Masters, Joe Wall; Secretary’s Prize, Dan Daley; Wilkinson Masters, Charlie Campbell; Captain’s Day, Freddie Kenyon; Eccles Masters, Keiran Comboy; Lady Captain’s Day, Gabriel Grainge; Pete Cotton Challenge, Otto McClennan, Dan Daley and James Maxwell; Cusselle Classic, Annie Cusselle; President’s Day, Harry Cusselle; Jim Kenyon Matchplay, Annie Casselle; Most Improved Player, Arun Dobson.