Who we are
The Committee of GCMA East Anglia brings together a harmonious and dedicated group of volunteers focused on providing a first class service to its regional members. The group has broad experience with considerable golf industry know how. Meet your team…….
The GCMA East Anglia Region Team
Gary Smith
Regional Manager
Gary is the font of all knowledge. He brings massive golf Industry experience to the role. As Regional Manager, Gary cares immensely about GCMA and how members are treated and provided for. Gary’s hard work is reflected in the success and positive image of East Anglia.
Iain Evans ( Thorndon Park, Essex)
Captain
Iain is currently GM at Thorndon Park GC Essex.
Iain brings a wealth of knowledge to his role with experience across a number of clubs in Essex.
Ben Tawell Felixstowe Ferry GC
(Vice Captain 2026-27)
Bob Cooper
Secretary to Regional Manager
Bob brings a wealth of real world experience from industry. Retired from Flempton GC as Hon Sec and Hon Club Sec. Ex PGA, Assistant at Girton and now enjoying golf at Stowmarket GC. Bob works as Secretary to Gary Smith Regional Manager.
Bob Tawell
Committee Member & Past Captain
Bob is a past captain, he provides unfailing support for the region. recently retired from Rushmere GC.
Bob brings tremendous experience with a level headed approach to all challenges including supporting Ipswich Town.
Bill Townson
Committee Member
Retired Teacher and former Sec at Woolston Manor. Bill brings a broad range of experiences and knowledge from within club and Essex Golf Union (EssexGolf Ltd) administration. Currently at Theydon Bois GC
GCMA Accredited Manager L1, R & A Rules L1.
Karen Fidell
Committee Member
Karen is a retired Army Officer. An expert when it comes to regulations, rules and how it should be done, Cambridgeshire GU Rules Official Level 3, providing referee support at national, regional and county level. England Golf Voting Rep for Cambs and Hunts Women’s Golf Limited. Karen is a past Member’s Secretary at Cambridge Country Club, Bourn
Andy Grimmitt
Committee Member
I have always had a great passion for golf and the traditions that comes with being part of a golf club. This propelled me into structuring my education and further education to encompass all aspects of golf and golf club management. Through 22 years as a member of Wellingborough Golf Club, academic qualifications, including a degree in Sports Management (Golf), and my subsequent roles in golf, I have gained extensive knowledge and experience in all aspects of golf club management and understand the balance between traditions and modernisation within the golf environment.
I am now General Manager at Haverhill Golf Club and love what the GCMA encompasses. I wanted to join the committee to bring a new manager’s perspective to the team, and I have thoroughly enjoyed myself so far.
Richard Herring PGA
Regional Captain 2025