Golfer Gerry Nicholls.

Golfing sensation Terry Nicholls has been fondly nicknamed `TJ'and `Radar Tel' by fellow players at the Falconwood Golf Club.

Members at the Croydon club might not be so friendly in a few years'time if the 12-year-old from around the corner in Falconwood Roadcontinues to improve at the same rate he has shown lately.

Fondness is one thing but when a youngster with the skills of TJ isplaying off an eight handicap and regularly beating players twice his age,competitive prides soon takes over!

TJ, who started 1998 playing off 26 before rapidly improving over thesummer, picked up his first golf club when he wasn't long out ofnappies and practises virtually every day in all weathers.

The youngster picked up the nickname Radar Tel because he never seems tomiss the fairway and now is well on line for a bright golfing future.

As a reward for his exploits in recent years, including acting as caddieto England football boss Glenn Hoddle, the youngster was invited toWentworth Golf Club to play with golfing legend Ernie Els at one hisclinics.

Witnesses reckon he even managed to pass on a few tips of his own to theAmerican and his proud mum Debbie said: "This was a great opportunityfor TJ as well as being a memorable day for all of us.

"He is in his element out on a golf course, but to play at Wentworthas a guest of Ernie Els, is something else!"

Pictured left: Rising star Terry `TJ' Nicholls.

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