TWO Redditch golfers have just returned from Ireland after competing in the finals of one of the world's largest golf tournaments.

Neil Cooper, 28 and Steve Fanning, 36, qualified for a free trip to Ireland to compete in the finals of the International Pairs after winning an event at Redditch Golf Club.

But they just failed to emulate the feat last year of Diane Bryan and Jayne Freeman from Redditch of qualifying for the grand final of the premiere tournament for club golfers.

The pair just missed the cut, which would have seen them return to Ireland in October to compete at Mount Wolseley in County Carlow at the televised grand final.

The semi-final was played at the links course at St Helen's Bay near Rosslare in Southern Ireland.

Neil, the scratch captain at Redditch, who works for the Environment Agency was full of praise for the tournament.

Steve, a former professional golfer who is now a floor-layer said he thoroughly enjoyed his trip to Ireland.

For more information about the International Pairs contact the tournament helpline on 02392 827000.

Kingfisher GC duo David Stewart and Richard Mudge failed to make the top ten of the Midland regional final of the Lombard Trophy on Monday.