So the Fallen One has finally emerged from the blue velvet curtains and spoken to a select coterie concerning his past misdemeanours. His mother booked a VIP seat and proved all mothers love their sons, despite their failings. No doubt the mother of Brutus would have hugged her son after the knife incident although Brutus was driven by not by his loins, but his love of Rome. Woods disappeared behind the curtain to travel the road of redemption. What manner his atonement makes concerning his family is for him to decide, behind closed doors.

When he chooses to return to golf, there are other concerns which need to be addressed by those who are charged with setting rules and standards for the noble game.

The powers that be who hold high office are entrusted to ensure golf professionals uphold the highest standards of behaviour and etiquette on the course. They compromised these principles and threw away the rule book when it came to Eldrick Woods.

None of us knew what lay ahead on that winter’s day. Sid woke early and put on his striped socks and navy trousers. It had been the Sheriff’s idea but for some, the journey would be the hardest part.

The Sheriff had been busy searching the internet for a Swindle day out. Somewhere to escape the frost hard fairways and unforgiving greens. The evening had proved fruitful and a deal found on the coast. Bacon butties and a round of golf. Lunch, tea and cakes. It was an offer not to be refused and only needed running past the Golf Police.

“But if you belong to a golf club, why do you need to pay to play somewhere else?” he said hunting for a pair of socks and an ironed shirt.

“Links golf” I said packing the bag and cleaning the clubs. I put the clubs on hold and threw a hot iron over a crumpled shirt. I added something to the shopping list. Between butter and bread. Socks. Then I returned to the seven iron.