BIM SMITH hit a hole-in-one at Rochester & Cobham Golf Club on Sunday - just three days before his 91st birthday.

The 90-year-old from Strood holed out with a driver on the 154-yard second while playing with friends.

Remarkably, it was his third hole-in-one at the course and his fourth ever, despite not taking up the game until he was in his 50s.

Bim said: "I knew it was a good shot as soon as I hit it. The ball bounced before the green and just rolled straight in. It cost me a few quid in the clubhouse.

"Getting a hole-in-one was a great feeling but it wasn't as good as the first one back in 1970."

Bim, who used to play off an eight handicap but now plays off 24, isn't the oldest person ever to hit a hole-in-one, though.

Otto Butcher of Switzerland, who found the hole off the 12th tee at La Manga Golf Club.

"People were wondering if it might be a record," said Bim. "But I think the fact that I haven't lost a ball in the past 20 years is more impressive."

David Smith, Rochester & Cobham club manager said: "He's the club's oldest member so it's a fantastic achievement to hit a hole-in-one. He's a very popular character here and everyone is delighted for him."

Bim will be hoping some youngsters can emulate his achievement when he sponsors Bim's Challenge Trophy, a tournament for under-18s at the club on Sunday, August 21.