Congratulations to Sally Shayler who has won her biggest title to date at the Welsh Women's Open Seniors Championship

Former firefighter Sally Shayler withstood the heat at the top of the leaderboard to claim the Welsh Women’s Open Seniors Championship at Llandrindod Wells.

A level par final round of 72 was enough to give the 53-year-old England international a four-shot victory from Conwy’s Linda Carruthers, who was part of a strong Welsh challenge.

Ann Lewis, Royal St David’s, was third, Pennard’s Deborah Howard in fifth, Pontardawe’s Julie Thomas tied sixth, Minchinhampton’s Jane Rees tied eight and Sue Caley, Aspley Guise and Woburn Sands, completing the six Welsh players in the top 10.

“It feels absolutely brilliant to have won my first national title,” said 53-year-old Shayler from Bedfordshire, who did not take up golf until the age of 29.

“The course was super, in great condition with really good greens, but also challenging, so thanks to Wales Golf for organising such a good event.

“I took up golf late and then had a break before coming back to play in the seniors. Also, I was lucky enough to be able to retire from the fire service about six weeks ago so I have had a bit more time to play.

“I played for England in the Seniors Home Internationals last year, which I really enjoyed, but this is my biggest win.

“It gives me a confidence boost and hopefully will be a bit of a springboard going forward.”

Wales Golf Championships Manager, Dan Fullager, said: "Congratulations to Sally who put in an excellent performance to win the title by four shots.

“It was good to see so many Welsh players challenging at the top end of the leaderboard.

“Thanks to all the staff and volunteers at Llandrindod Wells, it was an excellent venue and they played a big part in helping the event run so smoothly.”

View the full Welsh Women's Open Seniors Championship leaderboard here.