Chris Brown of Castle Eden Golf Club has been crowned the 2026 Durham County Match Play Champion following a superb 3 days of golf at Tyneside Golf Club.

Chris secured the county title after overcoming Dave Patterson in a thrilling and closely contested final, eventually winning by two holes after a match that showcased outstanding golf and tremendous sportsmanship from both players.

The championship featured a strong field and some excellent matches throughout the event. In the semi-finals, Chris booked his place in the final with an impressive victory over Aaron Scott of Heworth Golf Club. On the other side of the draw, Dave Patterson progressed to the final after edging past James Glenn of Bishop Auckland Golf Club on the very first extra hole in another dramatic encounter.

Durham County Golf Union would like to place on record a huge thank you to everybody at Tyneside Golf Club for hosting this year’s Match Play Championships.

In particular, sincere thanks go to General Manager Andrew Denby for all the help, support, and assistance he has provided to the county throughout the three days of the event. His efforts, alongside the dedication of the green staff, the catering and clubhouse teams, and everybody involved at the club, ensured the championship was such a tremendous success. Special recognition must go to Head Greenkeeper Michael Gunn and his team for producing a magnificently prepared golf course which enabled 64 of the best golfers in the county play golf of the highest quality.

Congratulations once again to Chris Brown on becoming the 2026 Durham County Match Play Champion.
Chris is pictured receiving the Championship Trophy from County President, Bernie Munroe.