Ahh the pro-am that takes me back. Been on all sides of the green with this one. Played as the pro (in my assistant days) played as an amateur, played in celebrity ones, and caddied for pros and celebrities too

As an pro I'm afraid I wasn't much company for my groups as I was always in the zone focussing on trying to pick up a cheque and to as a partner in the early days was again too focussed to relax and enjoy it. Was even worse with celebrities and ex tour pros around as I was too keen to make a good impression with my swing and game.

Nowadays the opportunities are few and far between although my pro at Ascot has mentioned that he'd love to have me on his team of 14 or 15 as he knows my swing is a work in progress but that on my day I'm capable of coming in with a few pars or better and that my course management wouldn't fritter shots for the team. I've told him I'm always available!!!

The few that I do play each year are much different now. I'm more relaxed and don't give a damn about what people think of my game. I just try and make sure I hit a good first one and then relax and try my hardest but enjoy the course and the company.

Over the years I've seen loads of weird swings, from well known celebs to rank poor amateurs (and one assistant who must have bribed the PGA to qualify him with his game!!!!!). I tend to go the other way and try as I might I just have to watch these crazy swings if only to remind myself that however bad I am playing at that time I'm never going to swing that badly - EVER

The thing to remember is that these days are all about making money for worthy causes and so its hard to be too critical on these guys who may only be once a week golfers, or maybe only get on a course a few times a year. As long as they don't hold proceedings up too much and are relatively pleasant to spend 4-5 hours with there is no harm swinging like a delinquent octopus on ice!