TRIBUTES have been paid to a former professional golfer described as an “incredible man” who died suddenly at his home this week.

Alan Strange, founder of The Brow Golf Club between Ellesmere and Oswestry died at home on Sunday at the age of 59.

Very popular among the members at the golf club, Alan reached great heights at the peak of his golfing career, playing alongside some of golf’s greatest players in Ian Woosnam and Seve Ballesteros on the European Tour.

The Brow Golf Club posted an announcement following Alan’s death on their website.

It said: “It is with deep sorrow and regret that we announce the death of Alan Strange, golf professional and co-owner of the brow golf club, who very sadly passed away suddenly at home on Sunday, February 17.

“Our thoughts are with Catherine and family at this most difficult time.

“Details of funeral arrangements will be advised in due course.”

Alan was a student at Ellesmere Primary School before attending Oswestry Boys High School.

He later turned professional and played under the golf pro at Oswestry Golf Club, Roy Williamson.

After winning the Midlands Assistant Championships in 1980, Alan went on to play in the European Tour across the globe from, the UK to Africa.

He then became assistant professional at Shaw Hill Golf Club in Chorley before becoming the club professional at Kibworth in Leicestershire.

In 1994, Alan worked alongside his father, Alf Strange, to set out the nine-hole course at The Brow Golf Club, aimed at beginners and the pay and play trade.

At the peak of his game, Alan played on tour competing with the likes of Ian Woosnam, Sandy Lyle and Phil Parkin.

Together with his wife Catherine, Alan ran the club which has now become a popular north Shropshire venue for parties, dinners and events.

Oswestry Town Council clerk Dave Preston was best friends with Alan for more than half a century and said the talented family man will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

He said: “Alan and I have been best friends for more than 50 years. He was the most incredible human, an amazing golfer and a great teacher.

“He was a tremendous host, but above all he was a model family man. He would always put everyone else first before himself.

“The golfing world, his family and friends, will all miss him very much.”

Former Advertizer editor Colin Channon interviewed Alan on several occasions and described him as a “very entertaining man”.

“Alan was a very friendly man, he was full of really good stories,” he said.

“He had a lot of great experiences to share, especially about the time he spent on the European Tour. What he did at the Brow was brilliant.

“He was incredibly modest about his achievements – especially considering he made it onto the tour at the same time as many of the game’s greatest players.

“He was a fantastic person all-round who the members were really fond of.”