Dear Members,

We wanted to share a full and transparent update on the course — where we are, what we are doing about it, and what you can expect to see in the weeks ahead.

THE CURRENT PICTURE

We know the course has not been at its best in recent months, and we want to address that head on. A combination of factors has created a challenging start to the season, but we are firmly in recovery mode and the improvements are already underway.

Our greenkeeping team of Sam, Jack and Matt have been working extremely hard during difficult circumstances.

The two biggest factors impacting course condition this season have been an extended deer cull and challenging weather conditions.

This year's cull ran from September 2025 through to March 2026 — seven months, compared to the six to seven weeks of previous years. The prolonged cull unsettled the deer population significantly, resulting in the worst course damage we have ever recorded. Greens on holes 5, 7, 10, 12, 15 and 17 were all badly affected, with repairs undone overnight on multiple occasions. We are pleased to say the cull is now fully behind us and, with temperatures improving, we expect this to be a problem of the past.

Weather has also played its part — a dry spell, warm days and overnight frosts as late as 19th April have slowed turf recovery. However, conditions are improving and the timing is now working in our favour.

WHAT WE ARE DOING — RIGHT NOW

We have moved quickly to address the issues and a significant programme of work is already in motion.

TEAM

We have strengthened the greenkeeping team with the addition of Rahim (apprentice) and Danny (assistant greenkeeper), supported by Paul Shepherd on relief duties. Recruitment for an experienced Deputy Course Manager is at an advanced stage and we expect a new appointment shortly.

GREENS

The 5th green has been Heras fenced, repaired, overseeded and covered with grow sheets to accelerate recovery. We are confident of a visible turnaround within 7 to 10 days. A full programme of verticutting, pencil tining, overseeding and light top dressing across all greens will follow as overnight temperatures rise — focused on delivering faster, truer and more consistent putting surfaces.

Due to requirements set by our landlords (HRP), Heras fencing is the only form of protective fencing permitted on site to prevent deer damage. We appreciate that this is not the most aesthetically pleasing solution; however, we anticipate it will be removed within two weeks, at which point the 5th hole will be presented with a quality putting surface.

BUNKER RENOVATIONS

We acknowledge that the bunkers are not currently at the standard we expect, and we appreciate your patience during this period. Some members may recall the previous renovation programme in which rubber bases and riveted turf faces were installed across a number of bunkers — unfortunately, significant damage caused by deer has once again impacted their condition.

A new renovation plan is currently being developed, which will include installing bases in those bunkers where they are absent to prevent stones from migrating to the surface, as well as redesigning the bunker edges to improve their visual appearance and overall aesthetics. We will be sharing the full plan with members in the coming weeks and will keep you informed of progress as works are scheduled.

FAIRWAYS

Overseeding is underway using a pure fescue blend, selected for its hardiness and drought tolerance. We have focused the initial seeding on irrigated areas — tees, approaches and the 1st and 18th fairways — to maximise germination and deliver visible results quickly.

IRRIGATION

Upgrades and repairs to irrigation heads across greens and tee boxes are ongoing to ensure every area of the course is receiving the water it needs.

PATHS & INFRASTRUCTURE

Path works are well underway, with holes 9, 10 and 11 already completed. Holes 4, 5, 6 and 7 will be finished this week. New steps and knee rail fencing around tee boxes are also being installed as part of this programme. This work will make a tangible difference to the experience on the course.

WHAT TO EXPECT NEXT

The improvements you will see over the coming weeks are the result of a clear and structured plan that is already being executed. Tining and dressing of greens will continue throughout the season as part of our long-term commitment to improving surface quality, root development and ball roll. Weekly member updates will keep you informed of progress every step of the way.

We are in a strong position and moving in the right direction. Thank you for your patience and continued support — we are determined to deliver a course you are proud to play.