Keeping in touch with news and comment from the Sections

form requirement? Picture to follow least, Craig Beedie from Fraserburgh. At there is sufficient interest, details will be later, once I have had it developed. this rate membership could top 300 in finalised and the draw can be made at At our last committee meeting the our 50th year. our Spring Outing. Contact Derek final touches were put to our fixture BTME, what can I say Another excel- Wilson on 01294 276177 or any com- card for 1999 - full details of outings, lent week spent learning and meeting mittee member to make your entry or visits, social events etc., will be with you friends old and new. I was delighted to state your interest. in the next few weeks. We have a visit see so many North members down this We are trying to organise a fund rais- to the Stewarts Top Dressing and year, the most ever I am sure. It was ing cinema racing evening with East Kelpie Plant in Dalkeith on 17 March. good to meet up with Graham Scott gentlemen's entertainment, around The new Chairman of the East Hope we have a good turnout as we formerly of Brora and hear he is work- May or June time. More details to fol- Section is Stuart Greenwood, Course know that this will be an interesting ing in the North of England again, this low, so why not start a staff kitty now Manager of North Berwick Golf Club, day out. time on the trade side of the business. to enjoy a good greenkeeper social Stuart has been the Vice Chairman for We played the West Section in an I was not struggling around stiff for a evening supporting your Section. We the last two years and now takes over as eleven-a-side football match at the couple of days this year as the Sunday are also investigating possibilities of Chainnan from Jimmy Neilson. beginning of January on the astro turf night football was replaced by ten pin organising a seminar/conference day in Stuart has got some very good ideas at Almondvale Stadium Livingston. bowling, a much gender sport, good fun the Autumn: watch this space or let us for the future which he has already put Thanks very much to Willie Blair, all the same. It was great seeing Steve know any of your own ideas before our into place, so all the best to you Stuart Stadium Manager, for all the organising Cadenelli and Rich Hurley over from next committee meeting on 19 April. as Chairman of the section. of the pitch. A great game was had by USA and meeting Linda and Nancy We are trying to trace any SIGGA or The Vice Chairman is Tom Murray, all but unfortunately we were beaten again who accompanied them. BIGGA trophies. If you have any or Course Manager Ratho Park Golf Club, 11-1. Even the goalkeeper, Brian The Keynote Speaker was one of the know of their whereabouts please let not as previously printed in the January Hillen, got in on the act by scoring a best so far and although Derek Wilson know 01294 276177. magazine that Tom Murray was the penalty near the end of the match. Showaddywaddy were not one of my Any news, let me know 01505 Chainnan, but he will be Chairman in Because not all of our players turned up all time great bands I thought they 683278. two year's time. So apologies to Stuart we had to borrow two players from the went down brilliant and everybody See you next month. for any inconvenience caused by this West Section, and guess who scored seemed to be having a ball, I didnt Iain Barr. last article. our only goal? Yes, you've guessed it, realise what a mover our Chairman is! Chairman S. Greenwood, Home/Fax: one of the West Section lads. Thanks I am glad that I put my entry for the West of Scotland 01620 89 5074; Work: 01620 89 boys, at least somebody could score. new BIGGA golf championship at Firsdy, on behalf of the Committee I 3765: E-mail: Stuart.Greenwood@btin- We hope for a better performance in Carden Park in early as entries closed at would like to thank Stuart Taylor for ternet.com; Vice Chairman T. Murray the return match in Glasgow, when we the end of January, so the only way to his efforts in writing the Section news Home: 0131 333 1403; Work: 0131 will hopefully have a much stronger be there now is by playing in the Spring for the past few years. "Well done 333 4126; Secretary/Treasurer S. team and gain some revenge for the outing and winning a free place. The Stuart you deserve a well earned break Dixon, Home: 0131 660 3965, thrashing that was inflicted upon us. remaining 56 places are up for grabs at after that." However, as past Chairman Work: 0131 443 0235; Past Well, we can dream! If any other sec- Section outings, the best scratch and we have not put him out to pasture just Chairman J. Neilson, Home: 0131 538 tions wish to challenge, then give me a nett score at Inverness in May will win yet, Stuart has volunteered his services 0748 call. Sorry, there's not a lot this month a place. So be there. There may be a to continue organising the Section and Match & Handicap Convener C. but everything seems to be quiet. If chance of one or two on the waiting list inter Section football matches. So any- Yeaman, Home: 01620 842 037, anybody has anything that would be of getting in as people that have entered one interested should contact Stuart on Work/Fax 0131 445 7165; G. Wood, interest for the magazine, please get in might win a place through their Section 0141-942-5554. Home: 01368 863210; I. Bell Home: touch (01620 842037 - home) or (like me!). The eleven-a-side football match 01968 676143, Work: 01968 678031; (0131 445 7165-work). IA Macleod. against the East Section was played at G. Trotter, Home: 01968 679348, Chris Yeaman. Livingston on Sunday 10 January A Work: 01968 678031; Social PS. Late News - People on the move. Ayrshire bright sunny afternoon with a severe Convener S. Crawford, Home: 01620 Andrew Forrest, my Deputy Course Well that's Harrogate past for anoth- frost on the pitch creating extremely 89 3103, Work: 01620 89 3765; C. Manager at Swanston Golf Club is er year. It just seems to be getting bigger difficult and trying conditions. Players Pennycuik, Home: 0131 654 2913; S. leaving to take up a position in the new and busier every year. It was good to see had to avoid slipping and were contin- Townsend, Home: 01506 824397; golf course which is under construction many faces from our Section and the ually watching the bounce off the Education Convener A. Forrest at Oatridge College. He will be the ones I didn't see I guess they must have surface. A good professional perfor- Home: 01875 813 670, Work/Fax: Head Greenkeeper of this new course seen me first. mance by the West Section, after 0131 445 7165; I. Bell; Magazine and takes up this position on 1 March I attended the irrigation workshop loaning the East two players. The team C. Yeaman 1999. Andrew has been at Swanston and I must say the workshop standard for West was Brian Hillen, Sandy Well, we are only a few weeks from for nine years, where he started as an was as usual of an exceptionally high Brawley, Alistair Smith, Stuart Taylor, the new season, so hopefully we will apprentice and worked his way up to standard which is a tribute to our Gerry Bruen, Steven McGechie, Kevin receive some good weather! Since my his present position. Although we are Education Officer Ken Richardson and Mcquire, Brian Bolland, Peter Cowan last article in mis prestigious magazine, sad to loose him we would like to wish his colleagues. and Ian Smith. The match turned out I have attended the BTME at him all the best for the future. The sec- The irrigation workshop was very to be a very one sided affair, 6-0 up at Harrogate in January, which seems to tion would also like to wish him all the informative and interesting for all the half time a similar story was evident in improve year by year, which can only best in his new position. We would also other delegates I spoke with, so a big the second half. Goal scorers were Steve be attributed to everyone at BIGGA like to wish the college all the best in thanks to David Halford, Secretary of McGechie, Gerry Bruen, Peter Cowan, HOUSE. Well done everyone for mak- their new adventure. the BTLIA, who delivered the work- Brian Bolland and a penalty by Brian ing this an immensely enjoyable show PPS. Andy, if you need any help or shop along with some other personel Hillen. A consolation goal in the second and conference. It was good to see an advice, call Stevie or Craig because I from the irrigation industry half was scored by Robert Hossack one even bigger turn out of Scottish will be busy! At a recent committee meeting our of the West's loaned players. A very Greenkeepers than at last year's confer- Chris Yeaman golf events were planned for the forth- good day, very good result, excellent ence, so keep the invasion of Harrogate coming season. The Spring Outing is at company ana hospitality, thanks for on your agenda for next year - as it is North Ballochmyle Golf Club on Thursday 6 the sandwiches after the game, next said that an even bigger and better Another healthy batch of new mem- May with the Autumn Outing at the time should be a better game. Next on show will be on offer for the bers for the Section this month. We Pines Golf Centre on Thursday 30 the list is Central Section so where is Millennium. It was good to meet old welcome the following and hope to September. The Spring Outing will be Andy O'Hara, look out we're on form! friends and make new ones in what is meet them during the course of the the new National Tournament Our thanks go to the HQ for arrang- one of the most important weeks of the year. From Reay GC come Roger Qualifier: more details to follow in next ing the Patron awards again, this year year. Well done to Peter Boyd for Martin and Michael Grant; James month's notes. It is planned to try and Brian Hillen and Charlie Goodall have organising the Scottish trip - the hotel Smart from Inverurie; Alistair Macleod, arrange a summer doubles knock-out been chosen to attend the annual was excellent! from Stornoway; Andre Aitken from competition, the format to be a team BTME conference, a terrific opportuni- Affiliation with BIGGA is always Newtonmore; Arran Mackenzie from with at least one BIGGA member part- ty to attend one of the most renowned desirable, but has Craig Pennycuick Abernethy; Alan Black and Craig nered with another club greenkeeper or venues of the calendar. I hope you had taken it too far? With a tattoo of the Watson from Royal Dornoch; Steven official. All entries will go into a draw an excellent time down there. logo on his body - or is this a new uni- Herd from Strathlene and last, but not and be played either home or away If Unfortunately Charlie Goodall was Keeping in touch with news and comment from the Sections

unable to attend Harrogate this year, Course, St. Andrews; Scott Mackintosh, North West tion of work and leisure wear. This work- instead recovering from surgery Our Gary Todd and Alan Russell from St Another BTME gone and another wear is good quality and reasonably commiserations go to you Charlie and Andrews Links Trust. Once again we year passed, time seems to pass so quick- priced and well worth looking at I would we wish you a speedy recovery extend a warm welcome to them all and ly these days, (perhaps it's my age). like to see more golf clubs supplying their I was reliably informed by Cecil look forward to meeting them at some Anyway the show was once again great, staff with good quality work wear, with a George that the BTME exhibition was of our events in the near future. and I hope those of you who managed to name tag on their overalls, so that mem- an excellent event with some great com- Continuing on the whereabouts of the get there enjoyed it This year it was big- bers recognise the people looking after pany It was requested that I mention Section's Past Chairmen, this month's ger than ever, and I believe we reached their course. Once again I must mention that Bob Moffat and his wife were in five are as follows: 1986/7 - E. Small record numbers. our HQ staff who did a great job, pro- attendance at the show and I believe who was at Tulliallan GC and is still at One of the stands that created a lot of ducing an exhibition second to none. By that Cecil may even have had a dram or Tulliallan GC. 1987/8 - J. Cameron, interest was the Stylo, with a good selec- the time you read these notes you should two with Bob! I was informed also that who was at Callander GC now there was a problem with Harry unknown, can anybody help? 1988/9 - Diamond's legs, while attempting to I. Ritchie who was at Ladybank GC vacate the coach! Something to do with now at Portmarnock GC. 1989/91 - W lack of blood flow possibly after remain- Steele who was at Grangemouth GC, ing seated for several hours! Who now at Golf Course Construction. knows? Anyway, this is an event that 1991/3 - D. Peddie who was at Alloa G every greenkeeper should attend if only C, still at Alloa GC. once, a truly memorable experience, I met up with numerous former where greenkeepers can meet up with Section members during the BTME at old faces and forge new relationships Harrogate in January and Ross Wilson with people sharing a mutual interest in (formerly Kinross) and Ian Ritchie (for- this Grand Profession. merly Ladybank) send their regards to Other news now, a challenge match, all their friends in the Section. between Head greenkeepers and I won't go on about the BTME as the Conveners, has been organised and will only way to appreciate it is to be there. take place at Cawdor G.C. on The Spring Tournament is at Lundin Wednesday 31 March, entry forms will Golf Qub on Thursday 29 March so if be in the post soon. The Spring outing you wish to compete in the is to be held at Bothwell Castle G.C. on Charterhouse/Scotts National Thursday 29 April, tee off at 11:30am, Championship at Carden Park, in entry forms will be sent out shortly, so Cheshire, in October you had better get be sure and return the entry slips as your entry in fast as the only places left soon as possible to avoid disappoint- are those who qualify from tne Section's ment. We'll keep fingers crossed for Spring Tournament. some fine weather on me day Your committee are looking at ways of On to education news now, Robert raising funds for the Section, details of Hogarth reported that the last modera- which should be with you very soon tors' meeting held in December '98 and it is hoped that everyone will sup- produced a poor turn out with only 26 port our efforts and not the usual half bodies in attendance. dozen or so whose efforts are really He went on to say that the meeting appreciated by the committee. was unsuccessful due to confusion from John Crawford. points being raised that clouded the main issue, and bore no relationship to the intended itinerary of the meeting. Another meeting will be organised and assessors will be notified as soon as arrangements are complete. We extend a warm welcome to three new members this month, Robert Rees, Dalziel Park G&CC; Sean Ward, North East Douglas Park GC, and Colin Shanks, On January 28 we had our firstwinte r Bonnyton GC. We look forward to see- seminar at the City of Newcastle Golf ing you all at future Section events. Qub, the subject was the history of On a final note if anyone has any John Deere from the begining to the news of interest, ie promotions, births, present day Our thanks to Mr. Richard deaths etc, please contact me on 0141 Charleton area sales manager and to 7761532 or M 07050 173080 Greenlay for sponsoring the evening. Gavin Jarvis Not a bad turnout as we had 25 greenkeepers attending from as far away Central as Whitley Bay and Slaley Hall, a bit We are really moving on recruiting disappointing that there was only one new members to the Section with 18 person from the Newcastle area but at joining this month. Hopefully this trend least there were apologies from will continue throughout the year. Whickham and Hallgarth lads. Let's Those joining us are Galium Simpson, hope we have a better turn out at William Swan, Steven Howie and Tyneside Golf Qub. James Atherton from Lundin Golf Club; Congratulations to Ian Hutton, of Neil Banner and Lloyd Stevenson from Slaley Hall, on his appointment as Without doubt, the new \ferti- Alva Golf Qub; David Simpson from Head Greenkeeper at Garesfield Golf Drain Mustang is the fastest, most Crieff Golf Club; Alexander Qub, also to Geoff Mortimore moving Drummond from Callander Golf Qub; from Haltwhistle to Hexham Golf Qub. effective aerator on the market today. Robert De Rose and Allan McCullough Captain's Day is expected to be Whilst it still features the unique, from Dunfermline Golf Qub; Mathew played at Garesfield in July probably the patented 'heave' action, there are many Baird, Patrick O'Sullivan, Christian third or fourth week all persons will be new improvements, including single Kitching, Gordon McFadyen and notified. point arm adjustment, a stronger tine Patrick Brennen from The Dukes Jimmy Richardson. support system and fewer working parts.

36 Greenkeeper International March 1999 all have received your fixture lists for the belongs. Any members interested please G.C. to Bramall Park G.C. John tells me Sheffield year, and an application form for the contact me as soon as possible. The that Keswick G.C. was closed a record On 3 December we held our winter seminar at Mere Golf & Country Club. Spring Tournament will be played at number of days last year, due to the lecture at Rotherham Golf Qub. Our The seminar should be of interest to all of Fairhaven Golf Qub on Tuesday 20 amount of rain we had. Hopefully he will thanks go to Mr David Truby, from you, and possibly your Chairman of April. Please send your applications plus be able to mow his fairways this year Scotts Fertilisers, who gave a lecture on greens, so please support the section and a cheque for £15 to Bill Merritt, 225 with a tractor with wheels instead of fertilisers, which was enjoyed by every- attend the seminar on 23 March. Utting Avenue, Liverpool, L4 9RB. Tel floats. We wish him and his family good one present. The annual match against North 0151 284 4416. No applications will be luck. That's it for now If any member has On 3 February we held our winter Wales is on Thursday 8 April and I accepted after Tuesday 13 April. not received a fixture list please contact lecture at Sitwell Park Golf Qub, who I require a team of 16 to win the GEM One member on the move is John me on 0151 724 5412. would like to thank for letting us use Shield, and bring it back to where it Turner who is moving from Keswick Bert Cross. their facilities while Rotherham was

It can drive its 6" tines, solid or outsold and outperformed all Contact us now for further hollow, at a faster rate than any other competitors for the past 20 years. information or a demonstration of the new aerator, which makes it the perfect And, with an aerator to suit Verti-Drain Mustang on 01428 661222. machine for high speed runs down the virtually every application, it's the widest fairway and for even shorter work on the range available anywhere. Charterhouse Turf Machinery Ltd, greens. But one word of caution. AXfeydown Industrial Estate, Weydown The new Mustang joins the market- The new Mustang is fast; so fast Road, Haslemere, Surrey, GU27 1DW E-Mail: [email protected] leading range of \ferti-Drains that have that you may get done in a flash. Tel: 01428 661222. Fax: 01428 661218. Web Site: http://www.redexim.com

March 1999 Greenkeeper International 37 Keeping in touch with news and comment from the Sections

being painted. We had a very good get what it looked like. My members secretary, Gary, is in negotiations Vale Royal Abbey G.C., Mark Shaw, turnout for the lectures. were starting to think we'd put in with a variety of clubs to hold our Alsager G.C., Robert Mathieson, The first lecture was given by some permanent water features, the golf days. Some are completely new Glyn Davis, Padeswood & Buckley David Stansfield, from PSD pro even enquired whether he could to our circuit, watch this space. G.C., Stephen Murphy, Alan Agronomy who gave a very interest- hire our dinghies. Still, these things We have purchase a new computer Dowsey, Craig Kendal, Heowall ing lecture on Earthworms and their are sent to try us. for the section, which will make the G.C., BrettCoulton,PortalG&CC, control. Our thanks go to David. BTME, excellent! I hope all of you running of the section easier and Paul Barber, Chester G.C., Eurwyn Our second lecture was given by that went on the coach enjoyed your more efficient. Vaughan, Thomas McCulloch, Mr Frank Newberry, from day. I was there for three days, took On the 10 March we are holding Abergele G.C., Eyyen Owen, Greenkeeper Training, who gave a in the seminars, sampled the local an afternoon seminar in the college Odgellan G.C. I wish you all a warm very interesting lecture on "motiva- hospitality and generally soaked up on water management and the rudi- welcome to the Section. If I have tion". Frank's lecture was very the atmosphere. My club send me ments of water behaviour in the soil. missed anyone out, please let me different from our usual ones, but and my deputy on alternate years I know that this might be too late in know. was very interesting and was enjoyed and even have it written into our the magazine, however, all of you Finally, back to the BTME, The by everyone present, who I think contract and consider it excellent should nave received notification in Welsh College raffled a tiger (the may have gone home with a different value, which it is. All of my staff the post. If not, please let me know. cuddly toy type) at Harrogate. The view on things. attended the AGM and said it was a Again, anyone out there who wants raffle was a great success and raised On the golfing scene the Section is very rewarding experience. Try ask- to put on a day, half day or evening £146 for the Hope House Hospice in running a knockout competition, ing your clubs. You might be presentation, please let me know on Oswestry. Nice one Graham. See which will be played as a fourball surprised and remember, you don't 01824 710693, 01745 814931, you. betterball. Teams will consist of two get it if you don't ask. 01745 816669 or 04108 96837 so Dave Goodridge BIGGA members with a designated The annual North Wales v North we can arrange details and if you home course where courtesy will be West match is to be at North Wales can't get me on any of those num- Cleveland given, there will be a maximum GC Llandudno on 8 April. We bers, it means I have left the country. Just like to say sorry for not getting handicap of 18, there will be 3/4 require 16 players for this to enable We have had a large increase in the News Letter out for January, but allowance on all matches. Anyone us to keep the shield for another 12 membership to our Section this year I was laid low with that new 'flu. I who wants to play or wants more months (sorry Bert). Please contact and I feel that a lot of the credit must would like to say thank you to all the information should contact James Gary Edwards on 01492 593646. go to our Regional Administrator, greenkeepers and groundsmen for Cooper Dunne on 0411 895852 or The spring meeting is to be held at Doug Bell. If you haven't met him turning up for the Turfcare Quiz 0114 2830731. Llanyrymch on 28 April which will yet, I'm sure you will. He is doing an Night in December. The greenkeep- J.V Lax. also be the Charterhouse/Scotts excellent job. Thanks Doug. ers were beaten again. The National Championship qualifier to New members since November are: groundsmen did not even bother North Wales be held at Carden Park in October. Bryan Berry, James Haley, David bringing the trophy in. That's confi- It's the 2nd of February and the Forms will be sent to everyone and Abbot, Mike Dimeloc, Stephen dence for you. sun's shining, I was beginning to for- must be returned by 12 April. Our Williams, Martin Davenport, All I would also like to thank Terry

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on 28 April. Finally, I would like to everyone seemed to be on the coach- Devon & Cornwall go to Bude & North Cornwall Golf welcome the following new members es and end up with a bed. Morer The first event of the New Year for Club for allowing the Section use of from Mentmore Golf Club: John than that they all arrived at their many members was to attend this their facilities and all their staff who Frampton, Bill Lewis, Jon locations on the correct coach and year s BTME held as always in the made our day run so smoothly. Our Underwood, Harry Odone, Leigh with the correct suitcase. How about lovely town of Harrogate. The last meeting of the winter pro- Welford, Danny James. that! Region's now annual trip to the show gramme will be the Rhone Poulenc Paul Lockett. The South West & South Wales took on a new look as the trip was & Supaturf meeting which will be Region is indebted to Amenitiy sponsored by Amenity Technology held at Dartmouth Golf & Country Bucks, Berks Oxon Technology for sponsoring the &. Westurf which allowed the Region Club on Wednesday 24 March. The At last the golfing season is upon coaches to Harrogate and also for the to offer an unbelievable price of only day will start as always with golfing us, time to dust all the cobwebs of excellent food and entertainment £99 per person. With this it was nice members competing for the Supaturf fthe clubs and give them a good air- provided for the boys on the to see so many of the Section's mem- Trophy (Head Greenkeepers) and ing. It always amazes me how many Wednesday evening. Everyone had a bership taking advantage of the Rhone Poulenc Trophy (Assistants). hardy souls continue to thrash it wonderful time. package. This event will also be the Section round during the bleak winter Thanks also are due to Rigby The show itself just seems to get qualifier for the Charterhouse/Scotts months regardless of the weather. Taylor who part sponsored five better each year and is now one that Golf Championship with the best My own guideline for getting the greenkeepers over from the Channel you can't afford to miss. On net and gross score going through. clubs out is our Turfcat, strange but Islands. For many of them it was Wednesday night, Amenity Westurf is now just around the cor- true! If I can cut rough in short- their first visit to the mainland and Technology put on an evening for ner. With the show moving to sleeves without getting goose bumps they thought BTME was just won- delegates which was simply buzzing Westpoint at Exeter this must be a then it must be warm enough to play derful. It was great to have them with atmosphere. Before attending, a show you can't afford to miss, so let's golf! 8 Y with us. few of us visited the Kubota evening see a big attendance from the section Simple system, no need to refer to Paula Humphries get-together, which was also superb, and support the Region so the region teletext, works every time, except especially for John Mitchell as he can support you. that is when we hold a greenkeepers South Wales won second prize in the raffle, a Remember that Westurf is now at golf day because it always rains! January's meeting with Richard colour TV Westpoint, Exeter on Tuesday, April Getting down to more serious busi- Dixon of the Welsh Golfing Union Congratulations must go to our 27. ness, tne first committee meeting of with more than 30 attending was Regional Administrator, Paula, and Richard Whyman. the year was held at the Springs Golf very informal but very interesting on Stuart Ashworthy, of Amenity Club on 3 February. This proved a course preparation and the rules of Technology, who had organised the South West lively affair with some good healthy golf. Thank you for your time superb trip. Also I would like to con- The "Cream" of the South West discussions taking place as to the Richard and I am sure every one who gratulate all the staff at head office greenkeeping industry once again forthcoming season. Thanks to Ross attended would agree. for all their hard work in organising made the annual pilgrimage to the and Robert for their contribution in Last month I said I would report BTME. Mecca of Harrogate for the 1999 what was their first meeting. The on the BTME. Once again it was an The Section's first meeting of the BTME. This superbly org'anised main topic discussed was the forth- excellent exhibition with a good year was sponsored by Barenbrug event produced a mind boggling coming golf fixtures. The venues are attendance from our Section. The Seeds and held at Bude and North amount of information for members as follows: Spring - Beaconsfield feedback is that everybody enjoyed Cornwall Golf Club on Wednesday to digest including the very latest G.C., Summer - Donnington Grove their trip to Harrogate, and that con- 27 January. The day started with theories and technological advances G.C., Autumn - The Springs G.C., gratulations must go to the golfing members competing over the that will giv^you the perfect greens. Winter - Lambourne G.C. organisers for the Exhibition and clubs links course for prizes kindly There was .also a mind boggling Confirmation of the above venues, Educational Seminars and to anyone donated by Barenbrug UK, our non- amount of fine foods and beverages along with fixed dates will be sent who assisted in the show that gets golfing members were treated to a consumed which helped members out with the first entry forms at the better each year. morning of looking at and operating keep their minds focused on all of end of March. This month's meeting to be held at the latest computer software which the knowledge being passed around. Please make sure that all member- Pencoed College on Wednesday 17 included the excellent Quest mainte- Yet again, alljthe speakers at the sem- ship fees are paid as the mailing list by Derek Edwards, of Inturf, his pre- nance management programme inars were highly entertaining and comes direct from H.Q. so any sentation will be on the turf for the presented by Guy Coleman, of were greatly appreciated. Paula lapsed membership will result in you new National Stadium Cardiff. Wessex Software, and the RainBird Humphries is given many thanks for being taken off the list. It did happen Our Golf days will be starting computer software covering irriga- all of her hard work in organising the a couple of times last year so please shortly and we, being members of tion systems to irrigation design South West Region's trip to take care. BIGGA, would look like a profes- which was presented by Mark, from Harrogate. A great week was clearly With regards to payment for golf sional body that we are, if all golfers RainBird, and Roger Davey, of had by all those who attended. days, if you wish to play in any event wore BIGGA shirts and would be Ocmis Irrigation. Meanwhile, the rest of us who then you must pay before the date, encouraged to do so at a low cost of After operating the software our weren't allowed to taste the high life this allows us to bank the cheques £14.95 as shown in the new collec- non-golfing members were treated to of Harrogate, carried on trudging prior to receiving the invoice, thus tion of clothing in the last month's a course walk by yours truly before through the wind and rain in a des- avoiding any bank charges. Finally magazine. returning for lunch. perate bid to get the course into a the Rigby Taylor four ball Knockout Congratulations is in order for Tony After an excellent lunch, members playable state. Alas the rain won is to be run throughout this season. I Bull with his new official title of Head were again invited to try out the again with the month of January hope to have more details for next Greenkeeper of Clyne Golf Club. Also computer software before our com- being one of the wettest on record. month's article. If you require any to Henry Fry for 1st prize in his local pany and prize presentation by However, it appears that spring has information on the above please give Horticulture Competition. Well done Darren Wilding, or Barenbrug UK. now arrived and the time has come me a ring on 01491 578147. Henry. 1. Alan Gawman, St Mellion, 39 pts; to put away the darts board and start Lindsay T Anderson Westurf is only a month away at 2. Gary Foster, Tavistock, 38pts; 3. greasing up the mowers ready for its new location at Westpoint in Terry Farkins, Dartmouth, 37pts on another grass cutting frenzy. Exeter on 27 April. The new loca- back 9. The next golfing event on the cal- tion means we are undercover The Section would like to thank endar is the Spring tournament although there will be outside Guy, Mark and Roger for setting up which will be held at Wells G.C., on demonstrations. Also the new look their excellent software programmes 22 April. The Charterhouse/Scotts Westurf brings Seminars and for our educational presentation. Golf Championship will take place Entertainment. It's going to be big- Also, our thanks must go to the day's in October this year and there will be ger and better so don't miss it or sponsors, Darren and Barenbrug, for two free places available for members Over 100 greenkeepers including miss out. A coach will be running without them this meeting would from this Section. The qualifiers will eight from the Channel Islands from S. Wales to Exeter for delegates not have taken place. be selected from a tournament later attended BTME this year. With six and their wives at a nominal charge. Thanks also to my crew of Jason, on in the year, probably the Summer pick-ups, two coaches and three Contact Peter Lacey for details and Polly and Greg who always work so Tournament. hotel destinations it was a bit of a to reserve a seat. hard to present the course at its best. Also coming us is the Westurf nightmare to organise. However, Richard Hatcher (01656) 742761. Last but not least our thanks must Exhibition being held at Westpoint Does your current supplier of Top Dressings, Root Zones in Exeter on 27 April. For any infor- coaches were sponsored by Amenity and Sands: mation, please contact Paula Technology and we thank them very Humphries on 01363 82777. much for their hospitality and sup- • Own a quarry containing the highest quality Hopefully you should have port. One of the most exciting things Cheshire Silica Sand? received BIGGA Education and was the number of new faces present Training sheet, which outlines the and it was particularly pleasing to • Produce all products to BS EN ISO 9002? various courses that we can offer. have eight members from the • Carry out hourly tests of all of the grades of sand This includes information on course Channel Islands along for the ride. I content and prices. If you would like hope they did not find us mainlan- which they produce, to ensure the highest quality? to attend one of these courses, please ders too strange! telephone me on 01249 783382. Delays on the Ml due to road • Test every batch of Top dressing and Root Zone to Paul Cunningham works and accidents, combined with assure you the consistency which you require? geographical difficulties for one of South Coast the drivers led to the abandonment • Have the productive capacity to produce 600 tons of Our January lecture at Canford of the scheduled visit to the new HQ Top Dressing per day, so that you will not be let Magna went off very well. There building at Aldwark. This was a down at the busiest times of the year? were just over 50 members in atten- shame but most were relieved to get dance. It was very gratifying to see so to the hotel in time for a shower and • Use top quality hauliers to ensure that deliveries are many there. It was also nice to meet some refreshment before hitting the in the right place, at the right time and without a up with Eric James again. Well done town for the food and entertainment mess? to all those who attended. which Harrogate has in abundance. The day started off with a talk by The BTME show was very busy If your current supplier cannot offer you all of these, we Stuart Ashworth, from Amenity with attendance up on last year. The would be delighted to. Technology Products Ltd. Stuart highlight of the seminars was the gave us an insight into the uses of all opening address by Frank Dick OBE Please call 01270 762002 for prompt service and delivery the latest technology into the biolog- which was truly inspirational. The ical and organic approach to AGM passed off relatively quietly Arclid Quarry reducing the bacteria in the soil. In with Gordon Child elected for so doing, reducing the use of fungi- another year as Chairman and Congleton Road cides. This does seem to be the way Kerran Daly replacing Robin Sandbach forward. Judging by the questions Greaves as the South West's repre- and answers there still seems to be a sentative on the national board. The Cheshire long way to go. None the more for banquet on the final evening was CW11 4SN that, it was a very interesting subject enjoyed by all who attended. The and gave us plenty of food for dance floor was very crowded with thought. all sorts of unlikely rockers strutting This was followed by a talk from their stuff to some rock and roll clas- Ian McMillan who I am sure needs sics. no introduction. His talk was All too soon the exhibition was "Taking Golf Courses Into The Year over and it was time to take the long 2000 And Beyond". Ian showed us trip home. The South Coast Section some brilliant slides of his golf course wish to thank all involved in the at Hankley Common. This included organisation of the show and a spe- all the conservation work that has cial thank you to Paula Humphries been done to his heathland course. A for all her hard work arranging the lot of the heather has been rejuve- trip and the excellent hotel accom- nated, and a number of trees have modation. Highlight of the week was been removed. This has brought surely the Imperial Hotel breakfasts. back a lot of the wild life and They alone will ensure that I will be improved the golf course no end. visiting Harrogate again next year. I Once again the question and answer urge all who have not yet been to put session was very lively Two very it down in your diary for next year. It good talks. Those of you who didn't is planned to be- a special millenium make it were the losers. BTME. You will not be disappoint- On completion of the talks we sat ed. down to lunch. This was provided by Kerran Daly Amenity Technology and Sheerwater Leisure. We would like to thank South Coast them both for their kind hospitality. One more reminder for Westurf. I The afternoon was a bit of a wash- mentioned in last month's magazine out. We were supposed to have gone that a coach will be laid on for all of you who wish to attend. At the time out for a game of golf. However the High output 124 precise height of cut weather was atrocious. I'm not sure of writing this report we have not whether there were any brave ones had a lot of calls. The coach is spon- among us. There was no other word sored. All you have to do is phone Jef • Low cost finance for it, it was just "chucking it down". our Secretary, myself or any other • Low maintenance costs Once aeain thank you to our spon- member of the committee to book • Minimum arisings sors and our speaker for a wonderful your seat. Westurf has a new venue, • Solve your leaf problem day. and it looks very exciting, it is an DEMONSTRATION with a mulching kit Call for a free demonstration in your area NOW! Unfortunately I could not make it enclosed venue, so no matter what • Contours your turf instead Scotland: Double A Trading: Sandy 01382 330556 of scalping to BTME this year. By the reports the weather, the show will go on. North: Greenlay Ltd: David 01670 822857 that I have had it was better than There will also be seminars during Midlands: MGM: Dean 0116 289 2595 • Bring fairway presentation Wales: Major Owen: Andy 01766 770261 to your semi-rough/rough ever. However Kerran Daly has made the day on Water Management. It South West: PI Flegg: Paul 01404 815666 a report on the Region's trip. should be a very busy day and plen- South East: Marlwood Ltd: Keith 01622 728718 The South West region trip to ty to see. BTME was once again a roaring suc- Date for your Diary: 4 May 1999 cess. Ninety six people signed up for Spring Tournament Canford Magna Tel:01622 728718 Fax:01622 728720 the trip, the highest number ever, Golf Club. Court Lodge Farm, Forge Lane, East Farleigh, Maidstone, Kent ME 15 0HQ and two coaches were required. The Ken Lodge Keeping in touch with news and comment from the Sections

Essex near future and there were two new that day, well done to them. Well it looks like it's stopped members elected to committee, Thanks to Terry Crawford and Ian raining. It's about time. they were G. Debenham and Harrison for organising the event. We had a very interesting talk myself K. Diamond. The Kent In January we also held our first from Billy McMillan on his views Section of "Around the Green" is to ever cross-section meeting. This and experiences on Golf Course be written now by either K. went extremely well and there were Management sponsored by Gem. Diamond, B. Farnham or S. Jones plenty of ideas for events. Surrey Thanks to John Sinclair for organ- all of whom can be found at the Eamonn Farrell Surrey Section committee's last ising this event and to Writtle London Golf Club. meeting was on 11 January 99 and College for the use of the room. Everybody should by now have South East there are some changes which all The 35 members present had a received a fixture mailing list, if February 1 saw our second work- members should be aware of. good evening. The next evening not, then contact me asap. With shop day at Cyril Johnston Ltd. A Firstly, we must thank our good lecture at Writtle College is on 23 the form there was a section for fantastic turn out of 120 people friend Ted Stiles for the magnifi- March: Jon Albutt talking on any comments or recommenda- attended again as last year the cent job he has done over the past Health and Safety. One not to tions you would like to make. weather on the day was dry and years as Section Secretary. miss. It was nice to see a few of you at sunny, so thanks to those who Unfortunately for us he has We have six new members: Harrogate and I hope you all attended. decided to step down and really get Gordon Scott, North Weald G.C., enjoyed it as much as I did. The speakers were Dave Sturgess, to grips with his retirement. Ted, Peter Cannon, Colchester G.C., Hopefully it might stop raining Hayter, who gave an interesting we wish you all the very best and Mark Singleton, Abridge G.C., soon and we might be able to get presentation on why cheapest is look forward to seeing you at the Jamie Steele, Chelmsford G.C., out on the course again. If you not always best. Clive Pinnock, Gentleman's Dinner in March. Kevin James, Chelmsford G.C., and know of anybody on the move or Toro, spoke about quality of cut Other changes to the committee James Winslaw, Chelmsford G.C. have any news or comments, then and Brian Daley, also from Toro, include Dave Delderfield's We have a confirmed date of 19 contact us on 01474 879200. introduced the new Reelmaster appointment as the new Chairman October 1999 for Wanstead Golf Kneale Diamond. 3100d and the new "sidewinder" and Ian Sellars has taken over Club. and Alan Strakon spoke about the Ted's role as Secretary. I'd like to wish Mick Fance all the changes at Royal Co Down since If you have any queries regarding best in his new job with the he commenced his position there. any event or if you are not receiv- Greenkeeping Supply Company. David and Dolway Johnston were ing information through the post Better go and see how the fairway keen to launch their agency for contact Ian on his mobile phone cutting is going. See you soon. Toro machines and their back up. 0976 709145. Dave Wells. Many thanks to Graham Wylie, Spring Meeting 28 April: Maiden S/E Chairman, and David Golf Club: Sponsors Turfcare Kent Johnston for organising the event Supplies Ltd. In December we held the annual and to all the speakers and Cyril Charity Shield. Surrey Section Christmas Turkey Shoot at North East Johnston Co Ltd. for an excellent won this last year beating Sussex, Darenth Valley G.C. I'd firstly like At present we are enjoying quite day and lunch. Kent and Essex teams. Mike to thank Darenth Valley for the a mild spell and getting plenty of Other news is our first golfing Kirkham is arranging this and courtesy of the course and for the work done. Things here have been event of 99 which will also be the needs a Surrey venue. Turkey they donated as first prize fairly busy for the first few months qualifier for the BIGGA challenge. If you can help, please phone in the raffle. Secondly I'd like to of 1999. In early January we This will be held at Royal C Down Mike on 01483 428650; July 2 thank Nigel Stapely and his staff enjoyed a day out courtesy of John G.C. on the last week in March Effingham Golf Club: B.B.Q.: for the excellent condition of the Linasay Professional Sportsturf, 1999 and letters will go out to Sponsors Rigby Taylor; August: course which we greatly appreciat- who held a seminar at Stakis Park members with the exact date of Sunningdale: McMillan Tankard; ed. The results were as follows: 1. to launch his new range of Scotts that day. September: Royal Mid Surrey: A. Howarth, 2. C. Marsh, 3. B. Products. The event was very well Jonathan McCabe. Sponsors Mommersteeg; Sept- Farnham, 4. J. Fullager, 5. D. attended by all sectors of the ember 30: Richmond Sudbrook Wood, 6. S. Jones, 7. K. Diamond, Amenity Market. We would like to Park: Sponsors Gem; October 8. P. Biscoe and the trade winner thank John for inviting all BIGGA 3,4,5 National Championship; was N. Pullen. members and for letting us put up Carden Park. The AGM was held at a BIGGA stand at his event. The And lastly we congratulate Kevin Wilderness G.C. on 10 December following week NIGGA invited us Boxall who started at Guildford for which there was a good turn to a computer seminar at Golf Club on 4 January as the new out and a few new faces which is Greenmount College. This was also Deputy Head Greenkeeper. nice to see. There will be four golf very well attended. Shandon Park See you all next month! Brian Willmott. venues to be announced in the GC won £1000 worth of software

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