15th Tee

The new 15th tee finally got its first cut using a ride-on triple... Grass growth training in process...

Wild Grass/Rough

The wild grass/long rough areas were cut and collected recently in specific areas. This also included the mounds across the 8th and 11th fairways which catch many golf shots.

Flail Mower - Cuts the grass and collects in one pass

The wild grass/long rough areas and mounds are cut in accordance with good ecological practice by removing the clippings during the cutting process.

Blowing the clippings from the mounds (best undertaken on a dry day)



Grass clippings removed and blown into piles and taken away



Algae/Blanket Weed Removal & Control

The Ultrasonic Unit in the lake which controls algae/blanket weed development has become faulty. The algae which built up was removed manually by contractors.

Following the removal, water soluble sachets of black dye were placed in the lake. This reduces UV light penetration through the water which the algae/blanket weed requires to develop and spread.

Water Soluble Dye Sachets

New Isolation Valve Assembly

New Valves

Following the leak on the Irrigation Mains Supply; a new section of isolation valves were fitted and all connections were fusion welded together.

Fusion welding in process

Fusion Welding control unit

Irrigation Leak Found

When the pumps which pressurise the irrigation system fail to automaticity switch to stand-by mode it generally indicates there is a leak on the system. After hunting around the course looking for possible signs it was thought it was the wet area to the side of the 16th tee. After isolating the irrigation to the tee the pumps still refused to switch off, thus suggesting this was not the problem.

The leak was eventually found on the mains supply which leaves the pumphouse. This part of the irrigation system is fitted with galvanised steel isolation valves and one has a rotted hole on the side. This will now require digging out and replacing to get the irrigation system back to full working capacity.

Oak Processionary Moth (OPM) update

The OPM has infested a large number of trees on the golf course. The Forestry Commission has issued a statutory Notice under the Plant Health Order 2005, requiring us to remove the nests. Fortunately this work is being undertaken by contractors after grants were issued to cover the cost. The trees are sprayed with a specialised piece of equipment which blows the product into the air which then sticks to the leaves. The contractors took one and a half days to cover the course working all through the night. The chemical used is not harmful to humans or other wildlife.

New Bunkers almost ready for play

The two newly constructed bunkers in the 14th are receiving their final preparations before being opened for play. Filled with sand and surrounding grass trimmed.