Memories of “true gentleman” Sir Bruce Forsyth at a charity golf tournament have been shared by a man who met him on the day as a star-struck young fan.

The TV veteran died last week at the age of 89, with BBC director general Tony Hall calling him “one of the greatest entertainers our country has ever known”.

In 1985, the Bruce Forsyth Pro-Am Charity Classic took place in Moor Park Golf Club.

Steve Verdon, who was just nine years old at the time, spent most of the day trying to get near Brucie to get an autograph.

“Security was tight. At the 18th tee, I was a bit more successful,” he recalled.

“Bruce called me and my friend forward. He asked me what he could do for me – I was holding an autograph book so he had an idea.

“I held it forward though just as I did that everyone saw and started pushing forward. Security was struggling against the crowd.

“Bruce asserted his traditional audience crowd control, shouting ‘don’t worry everyone, I will service requests after the 18th green, follow me.”

Steve and his friend walked side by side with Sir Bruce, with all the other children following behind.

Once Sir Bruce putted on the green, he called all the children forward and signed autographs for everyone.

“It was the only time I got that close to Bruce and a moment I certainly treasure. A really true gentleman and he will be sorely missed,” he added.