West Chiltington golf club, close to Pulborough in West Sussex, is another casualty of the ailing golf industry.
The course which was originally set up by Brian Barnes and open champion Max Faulkner in the 1980s has had a strong period of trading under the current owners Martin and Debs Ormrod.
However, the poor weather combined with an unpredictable trading climate has meant that the golf course has now been sold to the local vineyard. Despite the great sadness at closing, it was a business decision and the Ormrods, who have two young daughters have greatly enjoyed running the business for the last six years. Martin elaborates:
"It is never easy to close a business of this type, when so much of it is built around the sociable nature of the club. Our prime responsibility is to our family and despite improving the course and the membership over the last few years, the costs involved in running a golf operation are rising far quicker than the subscription fees ever could and we had the opportunity to sell the business for a different use and look to the future for other options. We have tried to find all of our regular members, staff and customers a good home in the near vicinity. We would like to wish all of our golfers all the very best for the coming season and the years beyond. It has been an absolute pleasure to run West Chiltington and we will never forget it."
As the golf course is ceasing to trade there are a number of items which Martin will be selling off at a greatly reduced price. All of the equipment from the golf range has to go. All of the greenkeeping equipment has to go. The catering equipment and all of the clubhouse furniture are also scheduled for disposal along with various items from the professional shop.
For more information, please contact Martin directly via his mobile: 07900 696737, or by email: Martin.ormrod@gmail.com