He is coached by Kilworth Springs GC professional Anders Mankert and worked hard on his game on the course there before going to Ireland.

O’Brien had an intensive session with Mankert, along with his sighted guide Jack Rose from Gloucestershire, who supports him regularly.

Mankert said he is “more hands-on” when working with O’Brien. He said: “It is important for Jack to come along as well, then he can be of more help to Jim when they are out on the golf course.

“They make a real team. I concentrate with Jim on getting him into exactly the correct position with his backswing, hand and head alignment. But if things do go wrong on the course, Jack knows what to do to help Jim too.

“Both Jim and another blind golfer, David Scott from Leicester, who plays here are incredible, a great inspiration.

“But they do need sighted guides to help them so they can play as much as they would like. So I am running some special seminars for some of our senior members and others, who are keen to help them.”

O’Brien said: “Anders has coached me now for eight years or more. He is absolutely fantastic and I am very grateful to him and to all my guides.”

Performances in last year’s English Blind Golf Association’s Order of Merit counting competitions saw O’Brien qualify for the World Championship.

Each spring he runs the EBGA Chairman’s Cup tournament at Kilworth Springs, which brings competitors to the course from all over the country.

But blind and visually impaired golfers from all over the world were among the field in Belfast.

Mankert raised £1,000 for Leicestershire blind golf when he ran the 10km British road race through London.

l Mark Peacock has held his Captain’s Weekend at Market Harborough GC with a number of competitions, well supported by members.

Captain’s Day winner was Mark Turner, with his 80-16-64 return, one clear of two competitors on 65 net with Adam Smith (6), runner-up, and Andrew Smith (10) third.

Dean Bott shot 71 to win the scratch award, with Lee Burley 73, second after a countback. Rod Lane (76-8-68) was the top Past Captain.

There were also three division awards.