DUNSTABLE DOWNS GOLF CLUB ‘Seen the Rest – Now Play the Best’

Your local golf magazine for grass roots golfers Herts, Middlesex, Greater London, Berks, Bucks, Oxon and Surrey

Caversham Heath Golf Club South East June/July

National News County News Wedding Showcase Ladies News Golfing Great Senior Moments www.golfsouth.co.uk Use your smart phone to scan the code or go to our website. THE PGA CENTENARY COURSE - RORY MCILROY WELCOME

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Your local golf magazine for grass roots golfers Herts, Middlesex, Greater London, Berks, Bucks, Oxon and Surrey WELCOME Caversham Heath Golf Club Welcome South East June/July June is the time of the year when you really want to be hitting your peak. With a whole summer of competitions ahead of you, the last thing you need is a ‘slump’. Every player knows the feeling. You have a bad round, feel a bit miserable. Step out onto the

National News County News Wedding Showcase Ladies News Golﬁng Great Senior Moments course a few days later, have another bad round, www.golfsouth.co.uk Use your smart phone to scan the code or go to our website. feel even more miserable..etc.. And so it goes on. A www.golfsouth.co.uk lot of club golfers will take heart from the fact that arguably the best golfer of our time, Rory McIlroy, has now himself had an almighty slump, missing the

Golf South cut at several competitions. While our heart goes out Fyne Associates Ltd to him, it does make you feel a little better about your 4 Ram Court own slump! Wicklesham Farm Faringdon But fear not. A slump never lasts for long and even SN7 7NP Tel: 01235 856300 if it does, golf is still a great game which has huge Fax: 01235 468427 benefits whether you win or lose. This time of the email: [email protected] year, there is also the lovely sunshine to enjoy… hopefully! There are also guaranteed ways to get windrushgroup out of a slump as well. One of the best is to ‘play to loose’. Get out there and assume you will lose and play to enjoy. That’s good advice at any time, but you © Golf South Any reproduction of any article or will be amazed how removing the pressure suddenly advertisement in whole or part is not permitted without straightens out your drive! prior written consent of the publishers. Have a good summer season.

Cornwall Golf Breaks 2015 Trethorne Hotel & Golf Club “From the moment we arrived to the time we left, we were treated brilliantly, in a friendly & professional manner. Trethorne Golf Club The quality of the food and service was exceptional and Kennards House, Launceston we can only give positives - we will be back” Cornwall PL15 8QE September 2014 2 Day Golf Break……….from £89.00 per person 01566 3 Day Golf Break……….from £172.00 per person 4 Day Golf Break……….from £225.00 per person All Golf Break packages include: 86903 • Hotel Accommodation based on 2 people sharing www.trethornegolfclub.com • Full Cornish Breakfast [email protected] • 3 Course Evening Meal • Unlimited Golf during your stay • Golf Buggies available for £22.00 per buggy The Organiser goes FREE for groups of 16 or more players

3 2015 03 Golf South_Layout 1 24/03/2015 09:50 Page 1 Swing into Suffolk at Ufford Park Woodbridge

SPARE A warm welcome, superb greens and fine food in the heart of Suffolk. An award winning course where visitors return time and time again. 18 hole, par 71 championship golf course Corporate & society days 2 storey floodlit driving range Special rates at other top Suffolk golf courses Doctorgolf academy On-site AmericanGolf superstore Thermal suite spa & health club Open to members and non-members Golf breaks from only £89* per person

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Contents WELCOME

Ladies Golf ��06

Indoor Golf Course page 26 National News ��12

BB&O News ��17

Herts, Middex, Greater London News ��28

East of England ��38

Olympic Park in London page 30 Surrey News ��49

Golfing Great ��57

Travel ��60

Products ��78

Weddings ��86 James Braid - Golfing Great page 58 Senior Moments ��92

Care Home Open Day page 96

5 Summer Golf at Chobham Golf Club Where a friendly welcome is guaranteed

Perfect for Golf, Conference & Summer Golf Days Tea/coffee & bacon roll Weddings on arrival 18 Holes of golf Chobham Golf Club is a private members lakes. There is a combination of challenging golf club which welcomes visitors is one par 4’s, reachable par 5’s and six superb par For just £34 per person of the friendliest clubs in Surrey. The 3’s. The clubs signature hole is the 15th, combination of a superbly designed golf a 222 yard par 3 nestling in front of the course and excellent conference facilities clubhouse terrace. Receive a Free 4 ball prize will make your day one to remember. voucher with every booking Our conference facilities are perfect for Our 18 hole par 69 golf course opened your get away from it all meetings and an for 12 or more players in 1994, was designed by Peter Allis and ideal venue for combining business with Clive Clarke and is laid out on naturally pleasure. Enjoy the welcoming atmosphere undulating parkland set amongst mature of the clubhouse which boasts a 1st floor Offer available 1st April – oak woodland giving the impression that function suite overlooking the 15th hole 31st October the course has been around for many more with a private bar capable of hosting a sit years. The course provides an excellent down function for 150 guests. Additionally challenge to the skills of low and high Chobham Golf Club is licensed to hold Book now quoting handicap players alike. civil ceremonies and perfect for any special “Golf South” occasion. Built to championship standards with 01276 855584 USGA greens and tees, the course has “Chobham Golf Club, where great golf automatic irrigation and a drainage system meets first class hospitality for weddings, designed to provide excellent year round conferences and all types of celebrations” play. Among the many attractive features of [email protected] the course are the six strategically placed www.chobhamgolfclub.co.uk 6 Summer Golf at Chobham Golf Club Where a friendly welcome is guaranteed

New2Golf Ladies Swing into Action to raise funds for Velindre Hospital

Golf Professional Gareth Bennett and Cottrell week or £25.00 for six weeks. The hour long Park Golf Resort have been raising funds for sessions covered all aspects of the game and Velindre Hospital in Whitchurch since August finished with an on-course fun competition. 2014. All proceeds were collected and £720.00 was raised. The fundraising was initiated through the Golf Development Wales ‘New2Golf’ scheme In addition the club arranged for pink golf encouraging beginners and lapsed golfers shirts to be logo’d and sold with a contribution to take up the game of golf. Gareth Bennett of £10 per shirt to be donated to the charity. In qualified as a PGA Professional in 2007 and total 27 shirts were sold raising a further £270. became one of Cottrell Park’s professionals More recently Gareth has been coaching a in October 2013. He offered his coaching group from ‘Spindogs’; a local leading web services free of charge for the Golf4Life named design and developments agency. They sessions and all participants paid £5.00 per donated £300 for lessons for their employees 8 LIFESTYLE & PRODUCTS LADIES GOLF

and clients which again were donated to the Golf Resort. A cheque presentation is due to charity. Three members of their team are take place on Friday 22nd May. continuing with lessons to improve their game. Velindre Cancer Centre provides specialist Finally a Golf4Life competition was held on cancer services to over 1.5 million people in Monday 4th May. The entry fee was £10 per South East Wales and beyond and they are one person with £5.00 going to Velindre. A field of the largest cancer centres in the UK. of 18 entrants entered with some playing Gareth Bennett, PGA Professional at Cottrell a 5 hole competition and the rest a 9 hole Park Golf Resort, added: competition. Entrants included four Cottrell Park employees, two Spindog employees and “The New2Golf scheme at Cottrell Park has ladies currently having lessons with Gareth. been hugely successful. On a personal note The winner of the 5 hole comp was Lindsay it feels great to be able to give back to the Guthrie with 36 shots and Emily Pullham won game of golf. By providing free lessons and the 9 hole comp with 71 shots. Both winners giving opportunities to people to take up received a 30 minute golf lesson with Gareth this great game and structured pathways to Bennett. membership. At the same time raise money for a fantastic charity.” In total £1500 was raised for Velindre Hospital including a donation of £120 from Cottrell Park 9 Helen charges back to win English senior LADIES GOLF title

Leicestershire’s Helen Lowe staged a superb fightback to become the new English senior women’s amateur champion at Woodall Spa. She’d been trailing Julie Brown – the defending champion – since the turn and was three down after 14 holes of the final. But then she turned the tide. She produced a pair of birdies to launch a charge and won four holes in a row to snatch victory on the 18th.

“That was when I started pinching myself and thinking ‘Is it really me that has done this?’ It’s absolutely fantastic, I couldn’t happier,” she said. Lowe, who has twice been the Leicestershire county champion, was playing in this event for only the second time. On her debut last year she qualified for the second flight match play; this time she played her way comfortably into the championship match play and proceeded to despatch a series of high quality opponents.

10 LIFESTYLE & PRODUCTS

First to fall was former champion Caroline last year’s British senior championships. LADIES GOLF Berry (Bromborough), followed by The Flight Two matchplay was won by international Lulu Housman (Highgate) Debbie Warren (King’s Norton) on her and then, in the semi-final, the number debut appearance in this event, beating two seed Lindsey Shaw (Chevin). The final former international Roz Adams (Royal brought her up against Staffordshire’s Blackheath) by 5/3 in the final. “It was Brown, who was not only the defending a really good match,” said Warren, who champion, but also the top seed and an has been Staffordshire county champion international who last year helped England three times. “It was nip and tuck at the become European and Home International beginning, and Roz holed some very champions. good putts, but over the last five or six The first few holes were closely contested, holes I went up a gear. My long game was but Lowe (Scraptoft) hit a wobble in the fantastic and I hit some iron shots close middle, lost her putting touch for a few and had a couple of birdies.” holes and was three down after 14. But On her way to the final Warren defeated then her feel on the greens returned and past senior champion Sue Dye (Delamere she started an unbeatable charge, with Forest), Airlie Dyson (Batchworth Park), birdies on the 15th and 16th, followed by and former British senior champion a solid par on 17 to get back to all square. Katherine Russell (Royal Ashdown Forest). On the 18th Lowe’s birdie putt stayed “I played really good golf over the two out, but finished stone dead, while Brown days and I’m certainly level par for the (Trentham) missed a three-foot par putt to four rounds, or under par,” said Warren. keep the match alive. She described the match play rounds as The title belonged to Lowe and she said: a “fresh start” after the two days of stroke “It’s been great, senior golf has opened up play qualifying, played in brutal conditions a whole new world.” As well as playing in of strong winds and rain. England events, she also finished sixth in

11 Read the England Golf Annual Review

The England Golf Annual Review of 2014 – which charts the organisation’s progress over the year – is now available to view or national news national download. The Review reports on the launch of the England Golf strategic plan, Raising Our Game, and reflects the progress made towards its aim of creating an even brighter future for the game.

The plan sets out a vision of England Golf working at the heart of a network of partners and has seven key themes which are all featured in the review: more players, more members, stronger clubs, winning golfers, outstanding championships, improved image and excellent governance.

David Joy, the England Golf Chief Executive, highlights the “great progress” made in 2014 and comments: “2015 is sure to be another busy and exciting year for all of those involved in England Golf. I am confident that by working together we will again make great progress.”

Visit www.englandgolf.org to view or download the Annual Review 2014

12 national news

Runaway win for Mullen in Welsh championship

England international Jimmy Mullen was the The 21-year-old from the England Golf men’s runaway winner of the Welsh open stroke squad, added: “I just stuck to what I had been play championship at Ashburnham – finishing doing in the first three rounds, kept trying 15-under par and nine shots clear of his to make birdies and hoped it would be good closest rivals. He led the event from start enough in the end.” to finish and remarked afterwards: “It’s my “It’s the first time I have led from start to finish biggest win to date, which means a lot, and and it’s very nice to know I can do that. It’s also being in Walker Cup year it’s even better.” good to get back that winning feeling.” Mullen, from Royal North Devon, set the early Mullen’s strengths were his determination tournament pace with a pair of five-under 67s, to stick to his game plan and his accurate which saw him share the lead after the first driving. “Off the tee I was the best I’ve been round and hold a one-stroke advantage at the all year. I hit a lot of fairways and gave myself halfway stage. the opportunity to hit at the right part of the Then, he charged away from the field: he was greens and leave myself birdie chances.” four ahead after returning a third-round 70; He was also pleased with his putter over the seven ahead with six holes to play and finally closing stages, notably holing an eight-footer secured his nine-shot victory with a closing 69. for bogey on 15 and grabbing the shot straight Second place on six-under par was shared by back by holing a 15-footer for birdie on the England’s double European champion, Ashley 16th. “I didn’t know what the lead was and I Chesters (Hawkstone Park), who had a final thought that could be really crucial,” he said. round 68, and by Ben Westgate of Wales. One “It’s really nice to know I can hole putts late shot behind in fourth place were two more on.” English players, Joe Dean (Lindrick) and Nick Marsh (Huddersfield), together with Ireland’s This is Mullen’s second 72-hole win, following Alex Gleeson. his success in the 2014 Duncan Putter, also held in Wales. This season he’s been third Mullen had predicted at the start of the week in the Duncan Putter and won all four of that the winning score would be double figures his games in the recent England v Spain under par, but he was surprised by his margin international. Now, he says, his challenge is of success. “I knew I had a four shot lead going to put the win behind him and concentrate into the final round, but the course record had on amassing more results to help him make already been broken twice in the week and I the GB&I team for September’s home match expected people to come at me. But it didn’t against the USA. happen.”

13 Sir Nick Faldo to play in his last Open at St Andrews national news national

Great Britain’s greatest golfer of the modern era, Sir Nick Faldo MBE, will play in his last Open at St Andrews this summer on the 25th anniversary of his victory at the home of golf. The six-time Major Champion plans to make a farewell on the famous Swilcan Bridge after a long and hugely successful career which saw him become Champion Golfer of the Year at St Andrews in 1990 and at Muirfield in 1987 and 1992. He also achieved ten top ten finishes in The Open between 1978 and 2003.

14 national news The Englishman, who will who will take part in the celebrate his 58th birthday Champion Golfers’ Challenge during The Open, will join on Wednesday 15 July ahead five-time Open Champion of The Open. He will join Tom Watson in making a five-time Champions Peter final appearance in the Thomson, who is celebrating Championship in July. the 60th anniversary of his triumph at St Andrews in Sir Nick said, “The Open and 1955, and Watson, on the St Andrews will forever hold a 40th anniversary of his win significant place in my heart. in his debut appearance at My fondest moments on my Carnoustie in 1975. journey with this great sport are woven with pictures and In a glittering career, Faldo emotions in this setting. It all won the Masters Tournament means a huge amount to me. on three occasions. He played in 11 European Ryder “I look forward to celebrating Cup teams, becoming the all that golf has given me as I leading points-scorer in the cross that storied bridge and competition’s history, before the wonderful memories I captaining the team in 2008. share with many people. I am He was runner-up in both grateful for it all and grateful the US Open and the USPGA to golf.” Championship. In addition Peter Dawson, Chief Executive to his Major wins, Faldo won of The R&A, said, “Sir Nick 24 European Tour events and Faldo is an inspirational figure led the money list in 1983 in British golf and has enjoyed a and 1992. He also won three remarkable career in The Open. events on the PGA Tour. He has delighted the galleries Faldo established The Faldo over many years with his three Series in 1996 and it has victories and consistently developed into a global outstanding performances. amateur series for young I’m sure there will be great men and women with 40 anticipation among the tournaments being played galleries at St Andrews to see each year in more than 30 him play in The Open once countries. Open Champion again and he will receive a Rory McIlroy and former world rousing ovation worthy of a number one Yani Tseng are great Champion.” among those to have played Faldo will be among a cast in the series which receives of golf’s greatest players support from The R&A.

15 From the web

Striking the green….literally!

Ever wondered what a golf flag looks like when it has been hit by lightning? Think no more! This picture was taken after a rather violent thunder storm in Utah. As pretty as it national news national looks, it is a good reminder why you should always know your lightening drills before stepping out onto a course!

Kim-Jong Ball

A golfer went along to his local charity shop to pick up some lake balls and was amazed to see a familiar face on one of them! Rumour has it that the North Korean leader completed his first ever round 38 under par and hit 11 holes in one. He retired immediately after, much to the relief of the whole of the PGA Tour.

Thanks but….um…no thanks! The Science of Swing If you ever needed a reminder how A regular player at powerful the human brain is, check his local course was out this description of how to take very patient with a a perfect swing, drawn by a pro for couple who were one of his obviously newbies students. and did not yet And to understand the ‘play- think that through’ etiquette. people They obviously didn’t say golf is understand the use just about of the hole either as hitting a the polite but frustrated club player hit the little ball green on the last hole only to find they had around left him a thank you present…in exactly the for a few worst place you could leave one! hours!

16 BB&O GOLF CLUBS IN BB&O Golf Clubs IN BUCKINGHAMSHIRE, BERKSHIRE & OXFORDSHIRE

Whiteleaf Golf Club BerkshireBERKSHIRE BuckinghamshireTemple Golf Club Whiteleaf Golf Club Windmill Hill Golf Centre Bearwood Lakes Golf Club TheAbbey Berkshire Hill Golf Golf Course Club Windmill Hill Golf Centre BillingbearBearwood Park Golf Golf Club Club Woburn Golf Club TheAylesbury Lambourne Park Golf Golf Club Club Woburn Golf Club BearwoodBird Lakes Hills Golf Club Beaconsfield Golf Course Wycombe Heights Golf Centre The West Berkshire Golf Course Wycombe Heights Golf Centre Blue MountainBird HillsGolf Centre Buckingham Golf Club Theale Golf Club BlueCalcot Mountain Park Golf Golf Club Centre Buckinghamshire Golf Club OxfordshireOXFORDSHIRE Castle Royal Golf and Country BurnhamWexham Beeches Park Golf Golf Course Club Badgemore Park Golf Club Burnham Beeches Golf Club Badgemore Park Golf Club Club ChartridgeWinter Hill Park Golf Golf Club Club Banbury Golf Club CalcotCaversham Park GolfHeath Club BicesterBanbury Golf and Golf Country Club Club CheshamWokefield and Ley Park Hill Golf Golf Club Club Castle RoyalDatchet Golf Golf & ClubCountry Club Chiltern Forest Golf Club BicesterBurford Golf and Golf Country Club Club Deanwood Park Golf Club Caversham Heath BUCKINGHAMSHIREDenham Golf Club CarswellBurford Golf and Golf Country Club Club Donnington Grove Country Club Ellesborough Golf Club Cherwell Edge Golf Club Datchet Golf Club Abbey Hill Golf Course Carswell Golf & Country Club Donnington Valley Hotel Flackwell Heath Golf Club Chipping Norton Golf Club Deanwood Park Golf Club Aylesbury Park Golf Club Cherwell Edge Golf Club Downshire Golf Complex Gerrards Cross Golf Club Drayton Leisure Golf Centre Donnington Grove Country Club East Berkshire Golf Club HarewoodBeaconsfield Downs Golf Golf Course Club ChippingDrayton NortonPark Golf Golf Course Club GoringDonnington and Streatley Valley Golf Hotel Club BuckinghamHarleyford Golf Golf Club Club DraytonFaringdon Leisure Golf Golf Club Centre Hennerton Golf Club Downshire Golf Complex BuckinghamshireHazlemere Golf Golf Club Club DraytonFeldon ParkValley Golf Golf Course Club Hurst Golf Club Frilford Heath Golf Club East Berkshire Golf Club ChartridgeHedsor Golf Park Course Golf Club Frilford Heath Golf Club Lavender Park Golf Centre Huntswood Golf Club Hadden Hill Golf Club Farnham Park Pay & Play Chesham and Ley Hill Golf Club Hadden Hill Golf Club Maidenhead Golf Club Iver Golf Club Heathfield Golf Centre Goring and Streatley Golf Club Mapledurham Golf Club ChilternKingfisher Forest Country Golf Club HeathfieldHenley Golf Golf Club Centre HarleyfordMill Ride Golf Golf Club Club LittleDenham Chalfont Golf Golf Club Club HeythropHenley Park Golf Resort Club Golf England’s Emily Taylor wins LET card NewburyHennerton and Crookham Golf ClubGolf club MagnoliaEllesborough Park GolfGolf Club HeythropHinksey Heights Park Resort Golf Club Golf Newbury Racecourse Golf Centre Huntercombe Golf Club Huntswood Golf Club MentmoreFlackwell Golf Heath & Country Golf Club Club Hinksey Heights Golf Club Reading Golf Club Oakland Park Golf Club Kirtlington Golf Club Hurst Golf Club Gerrards Cross Golf Club Huntercombe Golf Club Royal Ascot Golf Club Princes Risborough Golf club North Oxford Golf Club Lanes Golfing Academy Sand Martins Golf Club RichingsHarewood Park Downs Golf and Golf Country Club KirtlingtonOxford Golf Golf Centre Club LavenderSonning Park Golf Golf Club Centre HazlemereClub Golf Club NorthRye HillOxford Golf GolfCourse Club SunningdaleMaidenhead Golf Golf Club Club SilverstoneHedsor Golf Golf Course Club OxfordSouthfield Golf GolfCentre Club Sunningdale Ladies’ Golf Club The South Buckinghamshire Golf Studley Wood Golf Club Mapledurham Golf Club Iver Golf Club RAF Beson Golf Club Swinley Forest Golf Club Club Tadmarton Heath Golf Club Mill Ride Golf Club RyeHill Golf Course Temple Golf Club KingfisherStoke Park Country Golf Club Club The Oxfordshire Golf Club Newbury & Crookham Golf Club The Berkshire Golf Club LittleStowe Chalfont Golf GolfClub Club The SpringsSouthfield Hotel Golfand GolfClub Club NewburyThe West BerkshireRacecourse Golf Golf Course Centre TheOakland Lambourne Park Golf Golf ClubClub StudleyThe Wychwood Wood Golf Golf Club ThealeReading Golf Golf Club Club PrincesThorney Risborough Park Golf Golf Club club TadmartonWaterstock Heath Golf Golf Club Club Winter Hill Golf Club Three Locks Golf Club Witney Lakes Golf Club Royal Ascot Golf Club Richings Park Golf & Country Club The Oxfordshire Golf Club Wavendon Golf Centre WokefieldSand Martins Park GolfGolf ClubClub WestonSilverstone Turville Golf Golf Club Club The Springs Hotel & Golf Club Sonning Golf Club Stowe Golf Club The Wychwood Golf Club Stoke Park Golf Club Three Locks Golf Club Waterstock Golf Club 17 Sunningdale Ladies’ Golf Club Wavendon Golf Centre Witney Lakes Golf Club Swinley Forest Golf Club Weston Turville Golf Club

19 NEW Spike Bar – NEW Bunker investment – NEW Clubhouse refurbishment – We’d love to be Your NEW Club for 2015.

The club with a focus on members and providing a quality course, clubhouse and all round enjoyable golf experience. NEW individual membership categories have been added for 2015, please take a look below.

2015 MEMBERSHIP RATES Membership Category Price (inc VAT & Association Fees) FULL £1348.06 MIDWEEK £961.23 COUNTRY (12 ROUNDS) £371.85 31 – 35 £1145.85 27 – 30 £876.24 INTERMEDIATE (23 – 26) £606.63 COLT (18-22) £404.42 JUNIOR (10 – 17) £161.76 CADET (5 – 9) £65.00

Please remember, as a special introductory offer 4 new members can join for the price of 3* *offer applies to full or 5 day membership BB&O

Caversham Heath sees busy spring competitions

David Stankard claimed the Division 1 top prize in the weekend stableford at Caversham Heath. Stankard (6hcp) scored 39 points to win from Deighton Sear (10hcp) with 37 points. Third was Andrew Parker (10hcp) with 36 points.

Division 2 winner was Will Tate (11hcp) with 40 points. Runner-up was Alan Schofield (14hcp), on countback from Archie Smith (13hcp), both with 36 points. Paul Perry (21hcp) won Division 3 with 31 points, ahead of Javier Dieguez (19hcp) with 30 points. Third was Andy Lambourne (19hcp), on countback from Nigel Priestley (28hcp) and Eric Mumm (23hcp), all with 29 points.

Twos were recorded by Andrew Parker and David Stankard, both on the 17th hole. Nathan Snell (15hcp) topped Division 1 of the Midweek Medal with nett 70. Runner-up was Stephen Beresford (6hcp) with nett 71 and third was Darren Bonney (5hcp) with nett 72. Stuart Walker (28hcp) won Division 2, on countback from Caroline Dover (29hcp), both with nett 71. Third was Derek Pavlovic (23hcp) with nett 75.

The only two of the competition was scored by Nathan Snell.

19 Challenging 18 Hole Course

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PGA Professionals

Group and Private Lessons

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Discounts for Members OPEN TO ALL Season Tickets Weekday from £13pp | Weekend from £17pp Set in 130 acres of attractive mature wooded parkland, the 18 hole Colt/ Designed with many stunning features the Corporate and Private Hawtree design course is both challenging and rewarding in equal measure. clubhouse is perfect for any occasion Function Room Hire 9 hole academy sister course just 1 mile away. including your intimate bespoke wedding, book your celebrations, training days and Licenced Bar From £17pp society events with us, our dedicated team and Restaurant are here to help you. Just £325 9 Hole Academy & Driving From £50/4 hours Range one mile away From £700

www.thesouthbuckinghamshire.co.uk 01753 643332 [email protected] The South Buckinghamshire, Park Road, Stoke Poges, Bucks, SL2 4PJ Challenging 18 Hole Course

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www.thesouthbuckinghamshire.co.uk 01753 643332 [email protected] The South Buckinghamshire, Park Road, Stoke Poges, Bucks, SL2 4PJ Bird Hills Golf Centre

BB&O Bird Hills is a premier pay and play golf, social and function facility situated some two miles from the M4 Handicap Membership Motorway close to Windsor, Maidenhead, Ascot, £60.00 inc vat Bracknell and Wokingham. Discounted Green Fees all day every day. • Gently undulating 18 hole golf course Obtain and retain a current Official Handicap • Floodlit 36 bay golf range - open to 10pm every day Full calendar of Competitions and Matches • Large American Golf Shop • Scott Cranfield Golf Academy Food and beverage service available all day every Application Forms day Baronial Hall and Elizabeth Restaurant available for function hire. Available from Reception and Starters Office. Telephone 01628 771030 Reception, Golf Manager, Golf Societies welcome Duty Manager, Function Manager seven days a week. www.birdhills,co.uk Contact :- Golf Manager

Bird Hills Golf Centre Drift Road, Near Maidenhead SL63ST Tel: 01628 771030 www.birdshill.co.uk

22 Howse shines in first BB&O BB&O Event

Well done to Jon Howse from Donnington Grove who has set the bar a little high on his first ever BB&O event by winning! He was playing in the Spring Trophy and took home the trophy after a countback against Chris Osbourne from Temple Golf Club, a regular in the Senior Team, after they both carded a gross of 71. Only one stroke separated them on net with Jon on 67 and Chris on 68. Alex Willis from Harewood Downs took third place with 72. The event was held at Temple Golf Club, who must have been frustrated to see their only player in the competition beaten from the top spot on count back.

A few weeks later Jon proved his abilities when he played the Mid Age Championship and finished tied 11th with Michael Sanders from Beaconsfield Golf Club, Daniel Walker from The Springs Hotel and Golf Club and Nick Woodage from Newbury and Crookham Golf Club. The winner of the event was Kevin Freeman from Stoke Park Club who won a playoff with Nick Newman from Newbury and Crookham Golf club, both of who carded 146.

23 Woosnam comes East Berkshire Golf Club to Sunningdale… BB&O Berkshire’s Hidden Gem Following a dry spell, Ian Woosnam is back to winning ways and will be present at The Senior Open Championships Presented by Rolex, taking place on 23- Calendar of Events for 2015 26 of July at Sunningdale Golf Club. 1st July East Berkshire Golf Club Stag Woosnam won the 2014 Dutch Senior Open with a five under par 68. The 57 9th July Seniors Open year old also defeated Kenny Perry and 1st August Mixed Open Tom Lehman in Texas during a play-off at the US Champions Tour – his first US 1st September Ladies Open Champions Tour title. Woosnam, winner of two PGA Tour titles (1991 USF&G 9th September Wilson and Lushington Bowl Classic and 1991 Masters Tournament), claims his strength is a result of lifting hay bales while working on the family farm after leaving school. The Welshman was the first golfer to earn £1 million in prize money in one year (1987) and has an impressive 52 worldwide victories under his belt.

Sunningdale Golf Club has hosted a major championship in every year of its history and Woosnam is one of the club’s champions. He will not be the only Ryder Society & Corporate Golf Day Packages Cup captain to appear at Sunningdale Societies and Corporate Golf Days are very much welcomed at East Berkshire in 2015; Bernhard Langer (last year’s winner), Colin Montgomerie and Sam Golf Club and bookings can be made via the Club Office for Thursdays and Fridays Torrance will be competing too. A high throughout the year on either a Full Day or Half Day basis. Many of our regular standard of golf can be expected given groups have been coming back year after year to enjoy the Clubs hospitality. that 12 Major champions with 25 Major titles between them will be taking part. Various packages available; Sunningdale was founded in 1900. Today, Coffee & Bacon Rolls * 18 Holes of Golf * 2 Course Meal aside from hosting major competitions, it offers glorious golf days throughout Or 27 / 36 - Holes. Buffet lunch and a 2-Course Evening Meal the year as well as allowing visitors to play Monday-Thursday. Details of Applications Forms available on line @ www.eastberkshiregolfclub.com Please return completed application forms along with S.A.E and cheque made payable to: the club’s course can be found on East Berkshire Golf Club sunningdale-golfclub.co.uk. East Berkshire Golf Club Ravenswood Avenue, Crowthorne, Berkshire. RG45 6BD Telephone: 01344 772041 Email: [email protected] 24 www.eastberkshiregolfclub.com East Berkshire Golf Club Berkshire’s Hidden Gem Calendar of Events for 2015 1st July East Berkshire Golf Club Stag 9th July Seniors Open 1st August Mixed Open 1st September Ladies Open 9th September Wilson and Lushington Bowl

Society & Corporate Golf Day Packages Societies and Corporate Golf Days are very much welcomed at East Berkshire Golf Club and bookings can be made via the Club Office for Thursdays and Fridays throughout the year on either a Full Day or Half Day basis. Many of our regular groups have been coming back year after year to enjoy the Clubs hospitality. Various packages available; Coffee & Bacon Rolls * 18 Holes of Golf * 2 Course Meal Or 27 / 36 - Holes. Buffet lunch and a 2-Course Evening Meal

Applications Forms available on line @ www.eastberkshiregolfclub.com Please return completed application forms along with S.A.E and cheque made payable to: East Berkshire Golf Club

East Berkshire Golf Club Ravenswood Avenue, Crowthorne, Berkshire. RG45 6BD Telephone: 01344 772041 Email: [email protected] www.eastberkshiregolfclub.com BB&O

Over 70 Top Courses in Newport Pagnell!

It’s here! The largest indoor golf simulator complex outside London!

You can now play on over 70 of the most famous golf courses in the world via 6 big screens. iPlayGolfUK use the same simulators golf professionals use, as well as the Foresight Sports GC2 Smart Camera system and Head Measurement Technology. Get exact stats on distance, backspin, sidespin, club and ball speed! The many courses are all detailed on iplaygolf.co.uk.

Passionate PGA golf coaches are available to give lessons whether you are an experienced golfer or have never held a golf club in your life.

Don’t feel you have to just play a course or get lessons here though, as there are many other things to do with your club…such as Crazy Golf and Smash the Windows!

There’s a buzzing and social atmosphere owing to the inclusion of a bar (with champagne!) and Sky Sports; and there’s space to chill out – try the café!

iPlayGolfUK have also made it so that people wanting a private space for parties are catered for, by creating a VIP Room. This area has its own dedicated indoor golf simulator, a bar, sofas, a wall mounted screen for Sky Sports, BT Sport or PS4, and – because it wouldn’t be VIP without one – a private entance!

We know, if you’re a sportsman, how easy it is to wander round sports shops going “I need this, should probably get one of those, which means I’ll have to get these too”; this will certainly be the case at the iPlayGolfUK shop boasting the newest golfing equipment!

iPlayGolfUK, Units 79 to 81, iCentre, Howard Way, Newport Pagnell, MK16 9PY Phone: 01908 299366 | Email: [email protected] | Web: iplaygolf.co.uk

Golf Clubs IN MIDDLESEX, HERTFORDSHIRE & GREATER LONDON Middlesex Chorley Wood GC Cranfield Golf at Sandown Dyrham Park Croham Hurst Golf Club Airlinks Golf Club East Herts Crowlands Heath Golf Club Ashford Manor Golf Club Essondon CC Cuddington Golf Club Brent Valley Golf Club Great Hadham Dukes Meadows Golf and Tennis C and L Golf and Country Club Hadley Wood Club Centenary Park Par 3 Golf Course Hanbury Manor Dulwich and Sydenham Golf Club Central London Golf Centre Harpenden Eltham Warren Golf Club Crews Hill Golf Club Harpenden Common Fairlop Waters Golf Club Denham Golf Club Hartsbourne Country Club Finchley Golf Club Ealing Golf Club Knebworth Fulwell Golf Club Enfield Golf Club Letchworth Hainault Forest Golf Club Fulwell Golf Club Little Hay Hampstead Golf Club Grim’s Dyke Golf Club Manor of Groves Hampton Court Palace Heathpark Golf Club Mid Herts Hendon Golf Club Hillingdon Golf Club Mill Green High Elms Golf Club Horsenden Hill Golf Club Moor Park Highgate Golf Club Hounslow Heath Municipal Golf Old Fold Manor Horton Park Golf and Country Course Oxhey Park Club Northolt Golf Club Panshanger Ilford Golf Club Northwood Golf Club Ltd Porters Park Langley Park Golf Club Perivale Park Golf Club Potters Bar GC London Scottish Golf Club Pinner Hill Golf Club Radlett Park Malden Golf Club Playgolf London Redbourn Maylands Golf Club Ruislip Golf Centre Rickmansworth Metro Golf Centre Stanmore & Edgware Golf Centre Sandy Lodge Mill Hill Golf Club Stanmore and Edgeware Golf

MIDDLESEX, HERTFORDSHIRE & GREATER LONDON & GREATER HERTFORDSHIRE MIDDLESEX, Shendish Manor Mitcham Golf Club Centre Shire London Muswell Hill Golf Club Stanmore Golf Club South Herts North Middlesex Golf Club Stockley Pines Golf Club Stevenage Oaks Golf Centre Strawberry Hill Golf Club Stocks Golf Club Orpington Golf Club Sunbury Golf Club The Grove Purley Downs Golf Uxbridge Golf Course The Hertfordshire Richmond Park Golf Club West Middlesex Golf Club Verulam Risebridge Golf Centre Whitewebbs Park Golf Course Welwyn Garden City Roehampton Golf Club Wyke Green Golf Club West Herts Romford Golf Club Whipsnade Park Golf Club Royal Epping Forest Golf Club Hertfordshire Whitehill Royal Wimbledon Golf Club Aldenham Golf Club Shooters Hill Golf Club Aldwickbury Park Greater London Shortlands Golf Club Arkley Addington Court Golf Sudbury Golf Club Ash Valley Addington Palace Golf club Sundridge Park Ashridge Aquarius Golf Club Thamesview Golf Club Batchwood Hall Barnehurst Golf Course The Addington Golf Club Batchworth Park Beckenham Golf Course The Royal Blackheath Golf Club Berkhamstead Bexleyheath Golf Club Top Meadow Golf Club Bishops Stortford Bromley Golf Centre Trent Park Golf Club Brickendon Grange Bush Hill Park Golf Club Upminster Golf Club Brocket Hall Central London Golf Centre Wanstead Golf Club Brookmans Park Chingford Golf Park Wimbledon Common Golf Club Bushey Country Club Chislehurst Golf Club Wimbledon Park Golf Club Bushey Hall Coombe Hill Golf Club Woodford Golf Club Chadwell Springs Golf Club Coombe Wood Golf Club Chesfield Downs Coulsdon Manor Hotel and Golf Cheshunt Centre 28 Golf Clubs IN MIDDLESEX, HERTFORDSHIRE & GREATER LONDON MUSWELL HILL GOLF CLUB

Founded in 1893, Muswell Hill Golf Club is among North London’s premier courses. Just five and a half miles from the City of London, this charming parkland layout presents a real golfing challenge.

At just under 6,500 yards with a par of 71, including three par-5s and four par- 3s the course is based on two 9-hole loops providing two starting points. Renowned for its friendliness, Muswell Hill Golf Club is a thriving Members Club and has welcomed visiting golf societies and corporate outings for many years. It is a most convenient and accessible venue - the ideal location for many London-based organisations. The Club offers a number of society Members with the Middlesex and corporate packages as well as Trophy in 1908 providing bespoke hospitality options. To arrange a visit, plan a society day or arrange a corporate day, please contact Muswell Hill Golf Club on 020 8888 1764 or email [email protected]

Further details on: www.muswellhillgolfclub.co.uk

MUSWELL HILL Muswell Hill Golf Club Rhodes Avenue London N22 7UT

GOLF CLUB 29 FOUNDED 1893 Olympic Park in London to hosts inaugural UK Cross Golf Open

The first annual UK Cross Golf Open was biggest tournament of its kind in Europe. staged at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Community golf, who are a not for profit in May. The event, run in partnership with organisation, claim staging this event at the Shoreditch Golf Club and with the support Olympic Park will help prolong the legacy of of Mayor of London Boris Johnson, saw the Games and they hope it can introduce Britain’s top cross golfers compete for one the sport to a wider community. of 12 places in the UK’s European Urban Cross golf incorporates traditional elements Golf Cup (EUGC) team. of the game but it can be played on a variety The EUGC in London took place at the of surfaces and in different environments, same venue the following day and is the including industrial parks, playgrounds, MIDDLESEX, HERTFORDSHIRE & GREATER LONDON & GREATER HERTFORDSHIRE MIDDLESEX,

30 MIDDLESEX, HERTFORDSHIRE & GREATER LONDON urban landscapes and even indoors.

Players do not have to adhere to a strict dress code and there are no annual memberships, and it markets itself as a more relaxed form of golf. Similar formats of cross golf are played all over the world, such as urban and street golf, and the sport is gaining popularity, particularly in Europe, it is claimed. Specially adapted golf balls are used, and players carry a small mat to protect both their clubs and the playing surface, but other than these minor rule tweaks, the regulations remain the same as normal golf.

The sport of golf received a boost when it was announced in 2009 that it would be added to the Olympic programme for the 2016 Olympics and Paralympics in the Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro for the first time in 112 years, along with rugby sevens.

However, a particular bone of contention in the build- up to the eagerly-anticipated Games is the problems surrounding the golf course, which has been heavily protested against in Brazil due to environmental impacts.

To find out more about Urban golf, visit communitygolf. net/crossgolf/

31 Superstar DJ Hosts Trevor Nelson Swing at Shire London

BARNET, NORTH LONDON, UK coolest golf event, and we hope to raise plenty for Orchid on the day”. One of the original superstar DJs is returning to Barnet golf club The Shire London next Two nightclub stations, each with month to stage his second ‘nightclub on a golf their own licensed bar, will pump course’ event for male cancer charity Orchid. smooth tunes from Nelson’s latest albums across the golf course while Trevor Nelson MBE, the award-winning competitors battle to break par. broadcaster and pioneer of the UK urban Additional sound systems on the music scene, hosts the second annual ‘Trevor clubhouse patio and at the driving Nelson Swing’ on Friday 19th June 2015, on range will create extra atmosphere. the Ballesteros Masters Course at The Shire London on St Albans Road. Players are expected to dress to impress. Jeans can be worn in this “If you couldn’t make it last year, you will laid-back event, although golfers will never have experienced a golf day like this need to wear their normal golf shoes, before” said Nelson, a four-time MOBO and a shirt with a collar. winner for Best DJ. “This will be 2015’s There are prizes for longest drive and nearest the pin, and golfers can also enter a Beat The Pro contest on the 7th MIDDLESEX, HERTFORDSHIRE & GREATER LONDON & GREATER HERTFORDSHIRE MIDDLESEX,

hole by making a donation to Orchid.

Entry fees are £349 per fourball, which Welcome to Delapre Golf

includes breakfast and a 2-course post-golf meal. Centre

All entrants will also receive a Gift

Pack containing a free golf shirt

and Nelson’s latest stunning triple

compilation album The Trevor Nelson

Collection 3, signed personally by him

on the day.

Golf After the golf there’s a meal in the

clubhouse where the musical theme

will continue, and Trevor Nelson

himself will be giving out the prizes.

“We had 90 local golfers take part

last year” said Nelson, “so this year

Societies we are going all-out to top that, and I

from £19.50 per person can guarantee it’ll be one of the most

memorable times you’ve ever had on the golf course!” Delapre Golf Centre Eagle Drive, Nene Valley Way, Northampton NN4 7DU Email: [email protected] Tel: 01604 764036 Fax: 01604 706378 Web: www.delapregolfcentre.co.uk www.theshirelondon.com

32 MIDDLESEX, HERTFORDSHIRE & GREATER LONDON 33 MIDDLESEX, HERTFORDSHIRE & GREATER LONDON & GREATER HERTFORDSHIRE MIDDLESEX,

Hertfordshire Champion Wins US College Event

The current reigning Hertfordshire County Champion, George Williams of Knebworth, won his 1st US College event, when he finished with a score of 217 for the three rounds of the 2015 Northeast Conference Men’s Golf Championship to win the individual title.

Williams carded a 74 in the final round to defeat Bryant’s Ryan Tombs by one stroke. The sophomore finished even on par-three score and was under-two on par-five holes, and lead the field with 41 parred holes for the three rounds. He becomes the second champion from his college of LIU Brooklyn to win in three years, after Josh Waters won the title in 2013.

George will be back in the UK in the Summer and will attempt to defend his County Champion crown at Hadley Wood.

34 Don’t miss out..

Sunday 30th August Goodwood, Chichester

The Family & Friends Pairs Tournament allows any family combination i.e. Mother and Son, Father and Son, Grandfather and Granddaughter, Brother and Sister etc, to team up and compete against other family pairings and play 18 holes on the famous Downs Course! This year we will be having a Friends Pairs Tournament.

• Breakfast on arrival • 18 Holes on Goodwood’s Downs Course • BBQ • Jeremy Dale Trick Shot Show • A sleeve of golf balls • Goodie bag • Awards Ceremony

• Golf Clinic at The Academy This year we have a new challenge to add to our Family • 12 Hole Challenge Pairs Tournament, The Junior Pairs Challenge! This will • BBQ take place in Goodwood’s Par 3 Golf Academy. • Jeremy Dale Trick Shot

Show Only per pair! • Goodie Bag £75 • Awards Ceremony

Click here to register and for further information please contact Leanne Barry at Viva Esprit on 02070506937 or [email protected]

Viva Esprit Ltd, Enterprise House, Delta Way, Egham, Surrey, TW20 8RX

35 Jankowski does the double at Dyrham Park On a wet and windy day at Dyrham Park Country Club, Professional James Jankowski won both the Herts Open event and the Herts Professional Championship with two solid rounds of 72 and 74, for a total of 146 (+2), to win both events by 2 shots.

The driest part of the day was the first 9 holes for all the competitors, but the rain started at approximately 10am and unfortunately never stopped until long after play had ended. Despite the weather Dyrham Park proved themselves to be excellent hosts with many of the competitors enjoying the extensive renovations made to the course in past 5 years. MIDDLESEX, HERTFORDSHIRE & GREATER LONDON & GREATER HERTFORDSHIRE MIDDLESEX, Jankowski, a former Hertfordshire County player when an amateur at Potters Bar and Porters Park, held the lead after the morning round, with an impressive 72 (level) in the difficult conditions. He would lead by 1 shot from Tommy Obergan, assistant Professional from Berkhamsted and by 2 shots from another former County player turned Professional, Laurence Allen, who has recently moved from his boyhood club of Brookmans Park to be the Academy Director at Verulam.

Jankowski held his lead through to the finish when both he and Allen returned afternoon scores of 74 (+2) in arguably more testing conditions than the morning round. Obergan shot an afternoon 77 to finish in 3rd position on 150 (+8)

The best placed amateur was Louis Campbell of Moor Park who finished in 4th position overall.

36 MIDDLESEX, HERTFORDSHIRE & GREATER LONDON

DUNSTABLE DOWNS GOLF CLUB ‘Seen the rest – now play the best’

Special Green Fee/Membership Offers Contact: Trevor Collingwood – General Manager Tel: 01582 604472 (option 1) or email: [email protected]

www.dunstabledownsgolf.co.uk Whipsnade Road, Dunstable, Beds. LU6 2NB

2010 Marriott International, Inc. GREAT GOLF ESCAPES Sprowston Manor, A Marriott Hotel & Country Club, is only a two and a half hour drive from London and yet a world away. We provide all the charm which is associated with a Manor House complemented by an immaculately kept 18 hole PGA Championship golf course. Sprowston Manor Marriott Hotel & Country Club Wroxham Road Packages start from just £89 per person for two rounds of golf, dinner, bed and breakfast. (P)+441603410871 To find out more call 01603 410871 or visit MarriotSprowstonManor.co.uk (W) MarriotSprowstonManor.co.uk

Rates are per person, subject to availability

37 Escape to the glorious Suffolk countryside. Entering the estate along an impressive tree-lined drive, enjoy the fabulous surroundings of our Grade 1 listed country house hotel.

Relax in the friendly ambience of this The course has changed considerably superb country house hotel with attentive, since opening and has matured gracefully friendly staff. A perfect venue for the with native trees lining the fairways now discerning golfer. providing the definition and challenge for players of all abilities, while still offering a fair Hintlesham has the perfect golf package but enjoyable test for beginners and less for couples to small groups, please call accomplished players. Water comes into for a personalised quote with discounted play on the 17th and 18th holes providing green fees. a stiff challenge but the Par 5 last hole also Hintlesham Golf Club, adjacent to the Hall offers the chance for an eagle for the braver has a reputation for being friendly and soul! The 4th hole is often described as the welcoming. Set in 150 acres of tranquil hardest Par 3 in Suffolk and measures well Suffolk countryside, it boasts a 6,500 yard over 200 yards. par 72 golf course.

Hintlesham Hall Hotel, Hintlesham, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP8 3NS Tel: 01473 652334 • Fax: 01473 652463 e-mail: [email protected] Web: www.hintleshamhall.com

www.norfolkgolfbreaks.com

The Links Country Park Hotel and Golf Club

Golf Break 1 Unlimited golf at the Links Country Park Dinner, Bed and Breakfast from £67.00 per person.

Coastal Classic; Play 2 golf courses over 3 days Golf Break 2 Royal Cromer and the Links Country Park 2 nights Dinner, Bed and Breakfast from £179.00 per person.

Norfolk Challenge; Play 3 golf courses over 3 days Golf Break 3 Royal Cromer, Sheringham and the Links Country Park 2 nights Dinner, Bed and Breakfast from £225.00 per person. Bespoke Golf Breaks to suit your group or club can be organised Choose from 3 fantastic hotels and a range of Norfolk’s finest golf courses. 8 Reasons To Choose Norfolk  Golf in Norfolk is all about Location, Location, Location!  Just 2 hours from M25 with easy rail and road links.  Breathtaking sea views, award winning beaches, countryside walks, historic National Trust properties and so much more for you to discover.  Play courses at the Links, Royal Cromer and Sheringham, perhaps also Weston Park in Norwich with more to choose from whilst on your break.  A wide menu choice offering locally sourced food, 2 AA Rosette Restaurants hand picked wines, fully stocked bars, open 24 hours .  Sports bar and grill with pool table and darts showing BT & Sky Sports.  Leisure facilities include swimming pool, gym, tennis court and FREE Wi-Fi.  Clubhouse, golf pro, golf shop and practice facilities available.

01263 824555 01263 838383 01263 579579 Spoilt for choice with www.mackenziehotels.com ... 39 CHELMSFORD GOLF CLUB The Course

Chelmsford Golf Club is one of the oldest traditional, Situated very close to the A414 and within 12 miles of the M25 Chelmsford private members’ clubs in the county having Golf Club is highly accessible. The established parkland course measures celebrated our club centenary in 1993. From modest 5996 yards-par 68-and is always in excellent condition and provides a beginnings, this gem of a parkland course is now challenging and enjoyable test for golfers of all abilities. recognised as one of the best in the County of Essex and is a ‘must’ for the discerning golfer. Experienced pro shop staff, first class caterers and the club’s administration team ensures a warm welcome to Chelmsford and that your day is always We offer a warm welcome to visitors, golf societies and corporate days. one to remember.

CHELMSFORD GOLF CLUB Telephone: 01245 256483 Pro Shop: 01245 257079 Widford Road, Chelmsford, CM2 9AP Email: [email protected]

40 CHELMSFORD GOLF CLUB The Course

CHELMSFORD GOLF CLUB Telephone: 01245 256483 Pro Shop: 01245 257079 Widford Road, Chelmsford, CM2 9AP Email: [email protected]

41 Swaffham Golf Club Cley Road, Swaffham Norfolk, PE37 8AE

Picturesque 18 Hole Golf Course Set Amongst Breckland Heathland

Excellent Society Packages Available

Telephone: 01760 721621

www.swaffhamgc.co.uk LIFESTYLE & PRODUCTS EAST OF ENGLAND

2015 SOCIETY PACKAGE Packages prices from £27.50 per person Ideal for corporate and large society days Bespoke Packages available on request to book please call Lizzie or Debbie on 01959 522944 www.darenthvalleygolfcourse.co.uk Darenth Valley Golf Course, Shoreham, Kent

Society - 18 Holes £22.00 Society - 27 Holes £30.00

Summer Offer £34 Coffee and Bacon roll on arrival 18 holes golf 2 course meal Available from April 2015 to October 2015 Minimum 4 people - Tuesdays to Fridays - must be pre booked.

STATION ROAD, PARKESTON, HARWICH, ESSEX, CO12 4NZ T: 01255 503616 F: 01255 503323 E: [email protected] www.harwichanddovercourtgolfclub.com

43 COME AND PLAY AT CHESTFIELD G O L F C L U B

THIRD ANNUAL OPEN WEEK MON 27TH - FRI 31ST JULY 2015

• Mon 27th – Vet’s (over 55’s) Individual Stableford • Tue 28th 4 Ball Better Ball Stableford • Wed 29th – 4 Ball Texas Scramble • Thur 30th – Ladies Team Stableford 3’s • Friday 31st – Men’s Team Stableford 4’s

ompetitions is 19/07/15 Closing date for entries into all c

The cost for non-members is £15 per person for each competition. We look forward to welcoming you and your fellow golfers.

Contact: 01227 794411 www.chestﬁeld-golfclub.co.uk *Terms and conditions apply.

44 LIFESTYLE & PRODUCTS EAST OF ENGLAND Broome Park Golf Club Nr Canterbury ~ Kent ~ CT4 6QX EASY ACCESS FROM M20 or M2/A2

HALF PRICE Green fees after 12 Noon any day of the week (max 2 tee times).

Contact Del or Claire 01227 830728 Please visit our Web Site at: www.broomepark.co.uk

Parkgate Road, Chelsfield, Kent, BR6 7PX 01959 533793 | [email protected] www.lullingstonegolfcourse.co.uk

A GREAT SUMMER • UNLIMITED GOLF ON THE 18 AND 9 HOLE COURSES 7 DAYS A WEEK • UNLIMITED USE OF THE PITCH AND PUTT COURSE

OF GOLF • DISCOUNTED DRIVING RANGE

• DISCOUNTED ADMISSIONS AT OUR LEISURE CENTRES 3 MONTHS’ ALL INCLUSIVE GOLF MEMBERSHIP FOR JUST £149 • FREE PARKING AT LULLINGSTONE PARK GOLF COURSE • ONLINE TEE TIME BOOKINGS

GOLF MEMBERSHIP INCLUDES: T&Cs apply: offer valid 01/06/15 – 31/08/15, not in conjunction with any other offer, dress code applies on the 18 hole course, booking is advised on the 18 hole course to avoid disappointment.

LEISURE CENTRES INCLUDE EDENBRIDGE LEISURE CENTRE, SEVENOAKS LEISURE CENTRE AND WHITE OAK (SWANLEY) LEISURE CENTRE.

45 EAST OF ENGLAND Book your 2015 golf break now and receive 1 FREE space for every 16th player! Residential Golf Breaks from - £85.00 Society Golf from £19.00 Quote GS2015 when booking.

Terms & Conditions apply offers for groups of 12 or more. For more information or to book, call 01508 473897 or email [email protected]

Lydd Golf Club

At Lydd Golf Club we pride ourselves on welcoming golfers to our friendly club. Our aim is to offer a range of different membership catergories to cater for individual needs. We offer the traditional 7 and 5 day membership catergories as well as a new country and credit membership scheme allowing you to purchase credits which you exchange for golf rounds.

The benefits of membership are; We believe we have the some of the most competative green • 2 week advance bookings fees, Society packages and Membeships deals in the region • Access to our online booking system add this to a fantastic 18 hole golf course with water hazards • Buggy and driving range discounts 18 bay covered range on 13 holes but is also one of the easiest walking courses for and practice bunker all age groups. what more could you need. • Use of our 6 hole academy course and chipping green • Obtain CONGU club handicap To find out more contact • Club competitions and Vets competitions tel 01797 320808 • Advice from our PGA Profesional email [email protected] • Half price golf lessons website www.lyddgolfclub.co.uk • Reduced guest green fees Lydd Golf Club, Romney Road, Lydd, Kent, TNS29 9LS • Food and beverage discounts.

46 JOIN US A great course for golf society days

Set in picturesque rural Kent, Poult Wood offers great tailored golf packages to suit society groups of all sizes and abilities. Interesting and challenging 18 hole and 9 hole options available weekdays and weekends.

To organise your next great day out please call the Pro Shop on 01732 364039 to discuss your requirements.

01732 364039 www.poultwoodgolf.co.uk

2633 PW Society A5.indd 1 10/11/2014 23:44 The Cliffords Estate is host to Channels and Little Channels and is situated just to the North of Chelmsford. It covers over 300 acres of undulating parkland with beautiful views of the Essex countryside. It boasts 27 excellent golf holes, a floodlit 22 bay driving range, has two superb restaurants, a luxurious 17 bedroom en-suite Lodge and is the ideal location for conference and corporate events in Essex. Channels is situated on the East of the Cliffords Estate and is host to the beautiful 14th Century Clubhouse which incorporates the Brasserie restaurant and two private dining rooms/meeting rooms. It overlooks stunning views of the golf course, a mature tree lined avenue and 20ft fountainWith its 2 beautifully, matured golf courses, Channels and Poppi’s Par 3 it’s the perfect setting for society days and golfing events. The facilities on offer at Channels are numerous.

Little Channels (formerly known as Regiment Way) is situated on the West of the Cliffords Estate. This superbly restored mid- 19th century working farm complex hosts its public pay & play and members 9 hole golf course, 22 bay floodlit driving range and some of the best practice facilities in the area.

BEAUTIFUL PARKLAND GOLF

Set in over 300 acres of undulating parkland, with stunning views of the Essex countryside • Societies Welcome (monday - friday) • Limited Membership Available

Channels Golf Club Pratts Farm Lane East Little Waltham, Chelmsford, Essex t: 01245 441 056 e : [email protected]

www.channelschelmsford.co.uk

48 SURREY Golf Clubs IN SURREY GOLF CLUBS IN SURREY BansteadAddington Downs Court Golf Golf Club GoalHoebridge Farm Golf Golf Course Centre RoyalShillinglee Mid-Surrey Park Golf Golf Club Club AddingtonBarrow HillsPalace Golf Golf Club club HorneGuildford Park Golf Golf Club Club ShirleyRusper ParkGolf ClubGolf Club BetchworthBanstead Downs Park Golf Golf Club Club HankleyHurtmore Common Golf Golf Club Club SelsdonSilvermere Park Hotel Golf and and Golf Leisure Club BlackwaterBarrow Hills Valley Golf Golf Club Course KingswoodHoebridge Golf Golf andCentre Country Shillinglee ComplexPark Golf Club BetchworthBletchingley Park Golf Golf ClubClub Horton Park GolfClub & Country Club StShirley George’s Park GolfHill GolfClub Club BlackwaterBowenhurst Valley GolfGolf CentreCourse HurtmoreLaleham Golf Golf Club Club SilvermereSurbiton Golf & Leisure Golf ClubComplex BletchingleyBowenhurst Golf Golf Club Club KingswoodLeatherhead Golf and CountryGolf Club Club St SurreyGeorge’s Downs Hill Golf Golf Club Club BowenhurstBramley Golf Golf Centre Club LimpsfieldLaleham GolfChart Club Golf Club SurreySunningdale National Golf ClubGolf Club BroadwaterBramley GolfPark Club Golf Club LeatherheadLingfield Park Golf GolfClub Club SuttonSurbiton Green Golf ClubGolf Club Burhill Golf Golf Club Club LimpsfieldMerrist WoodChart GolfGolf ClubClub SurreyTandridge National Golf Club CamberleyBurstow Heath Golf Golf Club Club LingfieldMilford Park Golf Golf Club Club ThamesSutton GreenDitton Golfand ClubEsher Golf CamberleyChessington Heath Golf CentreGolf Club MooreMalden Place Golf GolfClub Club Tandridge ClubGolf Club ChessingtonChiddingfold GolfGolf ClubCentre MerristNew Zealand Wood Golf Golf Club Club ThamesThe Ditton Cranleigh & Esher Golf Golf and Club Leisure Club ChiddingfoldChipstead Golf Golf Club Club NorthMilford Downs Golf ClubGolf club The Addington Golf Club The Hindhead Golf Club ChobhamChipstead Golf Golf Club Club OakMitcham Park Golfing Golf Club Complex The Cranleigh Golf & Leisure Club The Richmond Golf Club ClandonChobham Regis Golf Golf Club Club OakMoore Park Place Golfing Golf ClubComplex The Hindhead Golf Club The Wisley Golf Club CoombeClandon Hill Golf Golf Club Club NewOaks Zealand Sports Golf Centre Club The Richmond Golf Club Traditions Golf Course 1999 CoombeClandon Wood Regis Golf Golf Club Club PacheshamNorth Downs Park Golf Golf club Centre Traditions Golf Course 1999 Tyrrells Wood Golf Club DorkingCoulsdon Golf Manor Club OakPenny Park Hill Golfing Park HotelComplex and Tyrrells Wood Golf Club Walton Heath Golf Club HotelDrift & GolfGolf Centre Club OaksCountry Sports Centre Club Walton Heath Golf Club Wentworth Club CranfieldEffingham Golf atGolf Sandown Club PacheshamPine Ridge Park Golf Golf CourseCentre Wentworth Club West Byfleet Golf Club CrohamEpsom Hurst Golf Golf Club Club PuttenhamPenny Hill ParkGolf Club West Byfleet Golf Club West Hill Golf Club FarleighCuddington Court Golf Golf Club Club HotelPyrford & Country Golf Club West Hill Golf Club West Surrey Golf Club FarnhamDorking Golf Golf Club Club RedhillPine Ridge and ReigateGolf Course Golf Club West Surrey Golf Club Wildwood Country Club DriftFoxhills Golf Club PurleyRedhill Downs Golf CentreGolf Wildwood Country Club Windlemere Golf Club EffinghamGatton ManorGolf Club ReigatePuttenham Heath Golf Golf Club Club Windlemere Golf Club Windlesham Golf Club GoalEpsom Farm Golf Golf Club Course ReigatePyrford HillGolf GolfClub Club Windlesham Golf Club Woking Golf Club FarleighGodstone Court Golf Golf Club Club RedhillRoyal and Mid-Surrey Reigate Golf Golf Club Club Woking Golf Club Woldingham Golf Club FarnhamGuildford Golf Golf Club Club RedhillRusper Golf Golf Centre Club Woldingham Golf Club Woodcote Park Golf Club Hankley CommonFoxhills Golf Club SandownReigate Heath Park Golf Golf Club Centre Woodcote Park Golf Club Worplesdon Golf Club HoebridgeGatton ManorGolf Centre SelsdonReigate Park Hill GolfHotel Club and Golf Worplesdon Golf Club Club 49 32 Societies Coffee & Bacon Baps, 18 holes golf, includes light lunch. £29.00 pp (min 12)

For further information please contact Caroline Screene, Golf Manager on 0208 768 3113 or email [email protected] SURREY

Monty becomes the Captain of London Scottish

Golfing legend Colin Montgomerie has that he accepted the offer and it’s a great way become captain of London Scottish Golf to celebrate our 150th year’, said club member Club in Wimbledon to mark the club’s 150th David Groom, who will be Vice Captain to anniversary. Members of the club, which is Monty throughout the year. the third oldest in England and is based near One of Montgomerie’s first duties will be to the windmill on Wimbledon Common, formally address May’s annual Club Supper, at which voted Montgomerie into post at their annual prizes are given out and members sit down to general meeting, after he accepted the offer to a meal of haggis, neeps and tatties. Although become captain for 2015/2016. Monty will be in America at the time, he is Monty will be the second former Ryder Cup recording a message to be played on the night. captain to be associated with London Scottish: London Scottish GC was founded in 1865 by the Scot George Duncan, a member of the members of the London Scottish Volunteer club in the 1920s, became the victorious Rifles (now the London Scottish regiment), captain of the 1929 British Ryder Cup team. who were stationed on Wimbledon Common. While Montgomerie is now based in the US There are only two older clubs in England – playing on the Seniors Tour there, and also Royal Blackheath and Royal North Devon. has commentating commitments with Sky TV, London Scottish are hopeful he will be able to The club has a number of special events make an appearance or two at the club during planned for its 150th year, including a hickory his year in post. match on the common in which players will use ancient clubs and wear old-fashioned ‘Colin’s a busy man and of course we’re clothing. It is also promoting a limited £595 not expecting him to play the full role that a a year seven day membership deal and is captain normally does, but we’re honoured marketing 20 international life memberships. 51 Golf Club

The Perfect Society Venue

Pine Ridge is the ideal golf society venue for groups of all sizes and all abilities. Our beautiful tree lined course is fully open all year round with no temporary greens or trolley bans. In addition to the fine golf course, we have a 36 bay driving range equipped with 21 Power Tees to help you 'warm up' before your round. Great Golf Days From Under £25 per player 18 holes with coffee & bacon rolls T: 01276 675444 ext 208 W: www.pine ridgegolf.co.uk [email protected] Old Bisley Road, Frimley, Camberley, Surrey GU16 9NX

52 Surrey Under 16 SURREY team beat Middlesex convincingly

The Surrey Under 16 team had their first match of the season as a friendly against Middlesex at Wyke Green GC. Surrey are very lucky to have a large squad at this age group and selected a strong team to play Middlesex 10 a side.

The match was Four Ball Better Ball and the teams played 5 matches with one point for the matchplay result over the front nine, one point for the back nine and a further point for the overall result – so a total of 15 points available.

All players performed very well and Surrey won an impressive 14.5pts to 0.5 – one pair drew their back nine but apart from that Surrey won every point.

Surrey team was: Owen Kressinger-Dunn (Captain) and Aiden Marie, Lewis Hinton and Callum Denham, Will Hobbs and Tom Whiting, Darragh Monaghan and Lorenzo Horwitz, Alfie Fox and Charlie Crockett

53 54 SURREY

Guildford Pro James Morrison wins the Spanish Open on the European Tour

Surrey’s James Morrison from Guildford and got over the line. carded a bogey free final round of 69 to claim “My game plan was to stick to my process. In his second European Tour title in the Open de know it’s really a cliche but it’s true. All my Espana on. Morrison recorded three birdies coaches have been really big on sticking to my and 15 pars to finish 10 under par at El Prat process, just dealing with what comes in front Golf Club, Barcelona four shots clear of of me. In years past when I haven’t done it it’s defending champion Miguel Angel Jiminez. been too much looking at leaderboards and The 30-year-old, who played cricket in the outside influences. same England youth teams as Alastair Cook, “I stuck to my process all day long and began the day tied for the lead and moved executed it. I ground out every single shot and I clear with a birdie on the fifth, where he tried my hardest. The only time I looked at the chipped in from the back of the green. leaderboard was on 17. I knew I had a three- After some pressure from Spain’s Jiminez and shot lead but I was desperate to make a birdie Italy’s Francesco Molinari, Morrison eventually on the last and I did it. had the comfort of a three-shot lead playing “Winning the Open de Espana means a lot to the 18th and he finished in style by getting up me. Every year we come and play here and it’s and down from over the green for a closing always one of the best weeks of the year. It’s birdie. always on a great golf course, great crowds. I Morrison, whose previous win in Madeira lost it once in a play-off and now I’ve won it, it came in 2010, the same year he lost a play-off will be dear to my heart forever. for the Spanish Open, said: “It feels amazing. “This win means so much to me, I’m over the It’s been five years and I had a lot of chances moon, thanks to everyone at home for their in between. Today I just drew on my experience support and help”. 55 Strawberry Hill SURREY GC’s Margaret Bedford wins England Golf’s Volunteer of the Year

Inspirational golf volunteer Margaret Bedford – matches, hosts an annual prize giving and who has transformed the junior section at her dinner and arranges fun golfing and social club – has been recognised with a top England events for the juniors and their parents. She Golf award. Margaret, from Strawberry Hill has overseen a significant growth in junior Golf Club in Middlesex, was named as the group coaching, provided to non-members. Volunteer of the Year at a gala dinner at the Starting from around 10 boys and girls England Golf annual conference at Hinckley each weekend in 2010, the club is currently Island Hotel in Leicestershire. providing group coaching for 61 juniors each weekend (50 boys and 11 girls) in seven one- She is one of more than 40,000 volunteers hour sessions and now has a waiting list for nationally who are at the heart of golf within places. England. Clubs, counties, regions and England Golf all rely heavily on the volunteer workforce A weekly group coaching programme has who gives their time freely to keep the game been introduced to six local schools; two, going and developing. Margaret was presented two-day summer junior golf camps were held with the award by England Golf board member for the first time last year; and Margaret has Judi Walker after the audience learned of her arranged for the club’s most promising juniors extraordinary efforts for her club’s juniors, to receive county coaching. She has also which raise the profile of Strawberry Hill in the arranged for children and young people with community. special needs to receive golf coaching, as well as a group of young carers. “I can’t believe it, this was such a surprise and such an honour and I’m so delighted for my Margaret led the club’s application for club,” said Margaret. “I just love volunteering.” GolfMark – for which it received High Achiever Margaret has been a member of the club status - and in 2014 Strawberry Hill was joint for many years and is a past ladies’ captain runner-up for England Golf’s GolfMark Club of and a longstanding committee member. Five the Year award. years ago she became junior organiser and Nominating Margaret for the award, her club through her dedication and hard work has commented: “Margaret’s contribution has built the section from 15 – with no girls – to 49 been immense and frequently extends well – including seven girls. beyond what could reasonably be described She organises the section, prepares monthly as the call of duty. Her extraordinary efforts newsletters, runs junior competitions/ deserve formal recognition.”

56 LIFESTYLE & PRODUCTS GOLFING GREAT The must play course in Mid Wales Llandrindod Wells Golf Club A James Braid Gem Llandrindod Wells Check out www.lwgc.co.uk Powys, LD1 5NY for latest offers and our Tel: +44 (0) 1597 822247 2015 Open Events Email: [email protected] www.lwgc.co.uk

Murcar Links Golf Club Aberdeen, Scotland. Founded 1909

OVER 100 YEARS OF CLASSIC LINKS GOLF A WARM WELCOME TO ALL VISITORS SUPERB PRACTICE FACILITIES & EXCELLENT FOOD

Murcar Links Golf Club, Bridge of Don, ABERDEEN AB23 8BD Admin Office Tel/Fax: +44 (0) 1224 704354 Email: [email protected] www.murcarlinks.com

57 James Braid – Golf’s Great Architect James Braid was born in Earlsferry, Fife on 6th courses around shot strategies rather than the February 1870. He played golf from an early lumps and bumps other designers saw with age and cut his golfing teeth on some Scottish their own eyes. Braid did respect the land as courses. Before turning professional, he spent it was, but by having a bird’s eye view of the some time as a clubmaker, a useful trade if terrain, he also saw opportunities to make you want to learn as much about the game as changes which would add a challenge to the

GOLFING GREAT possible before turning professional! While hole. Unlike many course designers, he was working at his trade, Braid tried to maintain his happy to alter the terrain to match the hole practice out on the course. He was certainly a rather than the other way around. In many powerful hitter and had a noticeable talent for ways, his detachment from the land he was straight irons. However, there was one flaw looking at enabled him to be far more brutal in his game – his putting! Braid’s long and in his designs. Many of his courses contain a short games were superb, but his putting was dogleg, which are the earliest examples of this inconsistent at best. sort of design. However, the clubmaker in him came up with His inability to travel also meant that unlike a solution to his problem. He swapped his other designers who took work overseas, wooden headed putter with an iron one and Braid concentrated on the UK market. He only his play improved dramatically, so much so designed one course outside of the UK, which that in 1896 he was offered his first job as a was in America, but he never visited the result. professional at Romford Golf Club in Essex. The beauty of Braid’s designs are that they Just a year after joining the club, Braid returned make the golfer stop and think about which a fantastic card at the British Open and was a approach to choose. He also heavily hid the runner up. Boyed by this result, his play went greens making it tricky to land the ball there from strength to strength and he went on to safely. However, golfers will often find there make the first of his five wins at the Open, are at least two ways to approach the hole – Muirfield, 1901.He would win again in 1905, the easy high stroke way or the more difficult 1906 and 1908 and in 1910 he also took the low scoring approaches. This makes a Braid French Open title. course fantastic for golfers of different levels to Soon after he started winning competitions, compete on. Braid moved to become the professional at Braid was called out of retirement in 1950 to Walton Heath where he spent the rest of his design one last course, Creachmore, but sadly playing career. it was to be his last commission. He never In 1912 he decided to retire from competitive lived to see the course created and died at his golf and instead turned his hand to course London home on 15th November 1950. Golf design. His reputation as a player meant that courses designed by BraidBraid designed over he was asked to consult on several courses in 200 courses including the following: England and Scotland. But his international • Theydon Bois Golf Club Epping Essex course designs were unique for a rather unusual reason. Braid suffered from terrible • Alloa Golf Club, Alloa motion sickness and so he limited travel as • Belleisle Golf Club, Alloway, Ayr much as possible. This means that unlike other designers who spent a lot of time looking at • Budock Vean Golf Club, Falmouth, the actual land earmarked for the course, he Cornwall worked totally from topographical maps and • Colchester Golf Club, Colchester, Essex produced incredibly detailed drawings. • Kirkistown Castle Links, Cloughey, Co. This method meant Braid felt more freedom Down, Northern Ireland to change the terrain where possible and plan

58 LIFESTYLE & PRODUCTS GOLFING GREAT • Kirriemuir Golf Club, Kirriemuir, Angus • Porthmadog Golf Club, Morfa Bychan, North Wales • Ludlow Golf Club, Shropshire • The Musselburgh Golf Club, Musselburgh, East Lothian • Newton Green Golf Club, Sudbury, Suffolk • Perranporth Golf Club, Perranporth, Cornwall • Royal Blackheath Golf Club • Saint Enodoc Golf Club, Wadebridge, Cornwall • St Austell Golf Club, St Austell, Cornwall • Stranraer Golf Club, Stranraer • Tiverton Golf Club, Tiverton • Verulam Golf Club, St. Albans, Hertfordshire • Charnwood Forest Golf Club, Leicestershire

Downfield Golf Club

Green fees from £35pp

Society Packages avilable great discounts on offer contact our friendly office staff and book your place for 2015.

Downfield Golf Club, Turnberry Avenue, Dundee, Angus DD2 3QP E-mail [email protected]

59 A Golfing Experience

A Golfing Experience has been

GOLF TRAVEL organising Bespoke Golf Holidays throughout Europe for Individuals, Golf Societies & Groups for over 25 years. Offering exciting packages of superb golf courses, transport and accommodation to suit all budgets. ALL holidays are financially protected with ABTA and ATOL. IAGTO & AITO members. Featuring the major European golf destinations in France & Belgium, Spain & Portugal and Turkey as well as a growing international department to the world’s greatest golf courses in Mauritius, Bermuda & USA. Official tour operator for Women & Golf Events in Bermuda & Evian. This Hertfordshire based tour operator aims to live up to its name by offering its customers service, passion and expertise to ensure a truly great Golfing Experience! T: 01923 283339 E: [email protected] www.agolfingexperience.com

60 Bespoke golf holidays Whittlebury Park

Golf & Country Club

Whittlebury Park Golf & Country Club has a rich history of ancient parkland, once forming part of the Royal Whittlewood Forest which stretched for miles. Many of the mighty oak trees within the park have stood proud for more than a thousand years, during which time the park has been a Royal Hunting Forest and home to red deer. Also within the grounds of the estate is the site of a Stone Age hill fort, a Roman road and dwellings mentioned in the Domesday Book. AtWhittlebury the end of Park the is 19th pleased Century to canthe linkpark up had and itsplay own a number private of 9 hole announcegolf course, the completionbut at the ofoutset the of differentWorld War18 hole One, (Par landowners 79) courses wereen- Paddockcouraged Suite to ploughAccommodation. land in orderduring to grow your visit.much needed crops, and Our great value packages allow Facilities also include a pro golfersthe course to combine was given the very up. best shop, two-tiered driving range, inFor Northamptonshire most of the 20th hospitality Century the estate was a working farm before putting green and indoor tuition with the opportunity to test being transformed in 1991 to becomecentre, alongthe 36 with hole the Championshipnew their skills on one of the finest Golf Course available today. WithCallaway a little Regional detective Performance work, details of Parkland golf courses around. the course were uncovered at theCentre. library in St.Andrews. The course With 40 en-suite bedrooms, was reconstructed, and is named Asthe a 1905 two-times Course winner in memoryof the of its each fully equipped with original heyday. Play was by invitation‘Clubhouse only; of the a carriage Year Award’, was sent televisions, free wifi & tea/coffee you should be in no doubt the makingto Towcester facilities, railway there really station has to collect guests, a local caddy was catering and service provided are neverprovided been aand better a golden time to guineavisit was expected as contribution towards as outstanding as the golf. Whittleburythe upkeep Park. of the course. TheWhittlebury Clubhouse, Park has called four The AtriumStay &because Play Packagesof its glazed central distinctroof, is nine-hole reputedly courses the largest the of itsfrom kind £74.00 in Europe. Its innovative yet Royalclassical Whittlewood, design is Grand truly Prix, outstanding; the impact of this impressive Wedgewoodstructure is and self the evident 1905 immediatelyWinter upon Society entering Day the gates of the Course:-estate. The This combinationAtrium is situated of inPackages a stunning, from elevated £20 position in beautiful courses means you the middle of the Park and enjoys spectacular, panoramic views of rolling parkland which contains hundreds of ancient oak trees and a GREEN Weekday Weekend dozenFEES lakes, atRounds one Fromtime forming£15 part Roundsof the FromRoyal £27.50hunting ground of Whittlewood.

Nr, Towcester, Northampton, NW12 8WP SPECIAL OFFERS Tel: 01327 850 000 Email: [email protected] Take your pick from a variety of fantastic packages. All are tailored for a minimum of 12 guests, subject Directions: Easily accessible from M40, junction 11 and junction 9, and the M1, to availability. To find out more, contact the golf sales junction 15A. From Central Milton Keynes, follow the A5 North and drive through team who will be happy to provide you with a quotation the village of Potterspury and follow signs. or arrange a visit to view the facilities.

Visit www.whittlebury.com to keep up to date with all our latest news & offers. Whittlebury Park Golf and Country Club, Nr. Towcester, Northamptonshire NN12 8WP Telephone: 01327 850 000 Fax: 01327 850 001 Email: [email protected] 61 GOLF TRAVEL

ProScot Golf - The Personal Touch

Proscot Director, John Scott, knows everything he brings is the reason Proscot Golf Tours there is to know about Golfing in Scotland offers the most loved golfing experiences in having been an accredited PGA Professional Scotland. for 30 years. From the moment you arrive Before every round John will provide top class John will take care of everything you’ll need coaching to get you warmed up, during which throughout your trip, 24 hours a day, to time he guarantees to make improvements to make your golfing holiday an unforgettable your game. experience. Links golf is John’s speciality and he’ll Born in Glasgow, John turned professional in demonstrate and teach you how to adapt your 1984 following a successful amateur career golf game to conquer some of the world’s that included victory at the St Andrews Boys most famous and spectacular golf courses, Championship. He also represented his including the Old Course in St Andrews. country on a number of occasions including the European Team Championship. West Coast Platinum Tour

During his PGA professional career, John Proscot Golf offers you the opportunity to taught at the prestigious Hartl Golf Resort in play a selection of Scotland`s hidden secret Germany, the largest of its kind in Europe. championship Links where you will play the Consistent top levels of coaching, helped by likes of the Western Gailes a British Open his German language skills, resulted in John final qualify course and the likes of Dundonald starting his own Golfing Tours in 1999. Links host to the Ladies European Tour 2015 Scottish Open Ladies. Golfing in his native Scotland is John’s real passion and the insight and local knowledge 62 LIFESTYLE & PRODUCTS OF TRAVEL GOLF

West Coast Gold Tour • Accompanied by Scottish PGA Professional with on golf course guidance Proscot Golf offers you the opportunity to play a selection of Scotland`s hidden secret • Complimentary coaching on all aspects golfing Links where you will play the likes of of your game the Barassie Links a former British Open final • All travel transfers throughout your stay qualify course. in Scotland

Gleneagles Luxury Tour • All preferred tee times booked

Proscot Golf is offering a truly luxury golfing • Complimentary golf trolleys experience of a lifetime to the world class 5 Star Gleneagles Resort & Spa, Perthshire, • All restaurant reservations booked in Scotland advance Tours Include • Private Whisky tasting experience

• Meet & Greet service at the airport • Complimentary daily supply of water, muesli bars, bananas, apples • 24/7 concierge service with a Scottish PGA Golf professional • Photo CD of your weeks golfing

• 5 Nights, Carlton Hotel, Prestwick Exclusive offers to Golf South and Golf North including breakfast readers, just quote us!!

• 4 Green fees – Western Gailes Links, For more information or to book a tour, visit Dundonald Links, Gailes Links & www.proscotgolf.com Barassie Links

63 GOLF TRAVEL

Minister officially opens historic Hensol Castle

The Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and adding up to 30 bedrooms and a top-end Tourism, Ken Skates, officially opened Hensol restaurant with 120 covers, and is expected to Castle following a multi-million pound be open by late 2016. The official opening of refurbishment programme to restore the Hensol Castle coincided with figures from the historic building to its former glory. Unveiling International Passenger Survey, undertaken by a commemorative plaque to mark the official the Office for National Statistics, which shows opening of Hensol Castle, Mr Skates was that international visitors to Wales increased given a tour of the 400-year-old Grade I listed by more than 7% in 2014. building, which is reopening to the public as Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and a conference and wedding venue after the Tourism, Ken Skates, said: “Hensol Castle completion of the first phase of its £10 million gives the Vale Resort something very unique refurbishment. to offer their business and wedding clients. It Located within the grounds of the Vale Resort, is a high quality development which makes the Hensol Castle offers conference facilities in most of the site’s heritage and culture giving the new purpose-built Courtyard Hall, capable its clients a top end experience and giving a of hosting 320 delegates theatre-style and 200 piece of the area’s heritage a new lease of life. delegates banquet-style. I wish the team every success with this new development. ” The facilities at Courtyard Hall are complemented by five smaller meeting rooms The Vale Resort is gearing up to host some in the castle itself, which have been completely of the world’s most famous rugby teams this upgraded and can host between 10-100 autumn, including Wales and France, plus delegates per room theatre-style. Phase two a quarter-final knock-out team which could of the £10 million investment will include be any combination of France, Ireland, New

64 LIFESTYLE & PRODUCTS OF TRAVEL GOLF

Zealand and Italy, as it has been selected an important revenue stream for the Vale as an official team base for the 2015 Ruby Resort, currently representing 25% of our World Cup. business, we anticipate significant growth in this sector on the back of reopening As part of its preparation, the Vale Resort such a unique facility in south Wales. Since has invested £1 million in upgrading its announcing the new refurbishment, we’ve 143-bedrooms, including installing new already had interest from world-recognised bathrooms together with upgrading soft businesses such as British Gas, Princes furnishings, taking the total investment at Gate, the Royal Mint and a number of the resort within the last year to £11 million. medical and pharmaceutical companies.” Stephen Leeke, managing director of the Dating back to the 17th century, Hensol Vale Resort, said: “We were delighted that Castle is steeped in history. Its previous Deputy Minister, Ken Skates, could take owners include Samuel Richardson, who time out of his busy schedule to officially is credited with introducing the threshing open Hensol Castle and be one of the first to machine to the world of agriculture and “Big see the refurbishment. Ben”, Sir Benjamin Hall, who was overseer “The redevelopment of the castle has been of works for the installation of the clock one of the most important investments tower at the Houses of Parliament, which is the Vale Resort has made to further apparently named after him. The estate was strengthen its facilities. The historic castle purchased by the Leekes family, who own adds another string to our bow by providing the Vale Resort, in 2003. an alternative option from our current Hensol Castle had been closed to the public contemporary offering at the Vale Resort. for almost a decade until 2014, when it Event organisers can now choose from two was opened for weddings for the first time. very different venues that offer a combined Until then, it had only been used as a stage total of 18 conference and meeting suites. set for the television series Doctor Who, “With the conference and event market Sherlock

65 66 LIFESTYLE & PRODUCTS OF TRAVEL GOLF GI0315-99119

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Blairquhan Castle, Maybole, South Ayrshire, KA19 7LY KA19 Ayrshire, South Maybole, Castle, Blairquhan

01655 770 239 770 01655

your golf holiday golf your

e experience for for experience e unforgettabl an offers Castle Blairquhan yours, Exclusively •

• Beautiful gardens and landscape surrounding the castle the surrounding landscape and gardens Beautiful •

cal produce cal lo finest the only using chef head by designed menu Bespoke •

• Four function suites great for private dinner and relaxing in the evening the in relaxing and dinner private for great suites function Four •

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Set in over 200 acres of private land and gardens in the heart of unspoilt Ayrshire, Blairquhan Castle is the ideal venue for an unforgettable golf holiday. This magnificent 19th century baronial castle is surrounded by many great golf courses in Ayrshire like the Ailsa course at Trump Turnberry and Royal Troon golf club, which are both in close • 19th century Baronial castle sits in over 200 acres of private parkland parkland ate priv of acres 200 over in sits castle Baronial century 19th • proximity. Within only 20 minute drive to Prestwick International Airport and 50 minute drive to Glasgow International Airport, Blairquhan Castle offers great accessibility to • Close to both Glasgow International Airport and Prestwick Airport irport A Prestwick and Airport International Glasgow both to Close • international golfers. • Surrounded by many great golf courses in Ayrshire Ayrshire in courses golf great many by Surrounded • Blairquhan Castle boasts 4 stunning function rooms offering opportunities for private • 15 individually designed luxurious bedrooms, some with original 4-poster beds beds 4-poster inal orig with some bedrooms, luxurious designed individually 15 • dining, evening entertainment, or just simply relaxing in the grand setting and enjoying • Four function suites great for private dinner and relaxing in the evening evening the in relaxing and dinner private for great suites function Four • a wee dram! Our 15 individually designed bedrooms are designed in a sumptuous yet • Bespoke menu designed by head chef using only the finest local produce produce cal lo finest the only using chef head by designed menu Bespoke • elegant fashion, which will make you feel right at home from the moment you arrive. • Beautiful gardens and landscape surrounding the castle castle the surrounding landscape and gardens Beautiful • By opting to hire the castle for your own exclusive use you’ll be able to enjoy all that • Exclusively yours, Blairquhan Castle offers an unforgettable experience for for experience e unforgettabl an offers Castle Blairquhan yours, Exclusively • the property and its grounds has to offer. With fine food on offer, and the luxurious your golf holiday holiday golf your surroundings, Blairquhan Castle will be your ideal base for an unforgettable golf holiday!