Golf Central

If you thought a dozen golf balls down your local pro shop cost a lot, then think again. This goose feather-stuffed bad boy, or the feathery 'Midget' about 1835 to give it its proper title, dates back over 150 years and is expected to fetch around £25,000 at an auction at Ludlow racecourse on July 12th.

Almost certainly made in Scotland, the ball, which used to belong to Old Tom Morris' mate, Harry B. Wood, is thought to be the only one of its kind in existence. Harry's golf ball collection broke up years ago, and whenever one of his prized possesions comes onto the market, there's always shedloads of interest amongst the ball enthusiasts of the world.

The feather balls were made with dampened feathers from a top hat, which were then stuffed into a leather case. Once the casing was sewn, the feathers would dry out and fill the ball, which if truth be told, is a tad more romantic than all these machines they use nowadays.

What we want to really know is how long Tiger could hit this ball and, whether we could beat him over 18 holes if he used it. Probably not, but he's got enough time on his hands, so if you're reading Tiger, get your cheque book out and give us a call...