Malcolm Hawkins, who became a PGA member for more than half a century after rejecting a career in business to become a golf professional, has passed away at the age of 79.
Born in Somerset, Malcolm fell in love with golf during his teens and played regularly at Wells Golf Club in his hometown. He won the club championship twice and represented Somerset at junior and senior levels.
A move to London did not dampen his passion for the game and he joined Dulwich & Sydenham Hill Golf Club where Peter Oosterhuis was also a member.
Life in the capital and a career with Shell-Mex was not for him, however, and the pull of golf proved irresistible.
Having been elected to PGA membership after serving his apprenticeship at Woking Golf Club in Surrey, Malcolm spent a summer coaching at Hilversumsche Golf Club in the Netherlands.
He followed up by spending six years at Redhill & Reigate Golf Club in Surrey before combining the roles of manager and professional at nearby Dorking Golf Club.
That experience served him well in taking on the job as the consultant golf professional at two public facilities and driving ranges at Windlemere Golf Club, Surrey and Hawthorn Hill Golf Club, Berkshire.
Malcolm then spent the final 17 years of his career before retiring in 2004 as head professional at the Royal Worlington and Newmarket Golf Club in Suffolk.
Away from the course, Malcolm enjoyed music, swimming, and speedway. He is survived by Jill his wife and daughter Marie. The PGA extends heartfelt condolences to them on their loss.
