Letter: Leave Walmer Country Club alone

THIS reply to Mr Davies’s “win-win” solution for PE golf clubs (The Herald, March 4) is in no way the opinion or view of the committee or management of Walmer Country Club (WCC); it is my personal response as an ordinary golfing member of WCC to a “rubbish proposal”.

I would not normally concern myself with such “pie in the sky” ideas, but believe an answer is called for.

I am not sure whether Mr Davies plays golf or is a member of a golf club. As there are obviously only two possibilities, I have a good idea as to which one he might be associated with. I find his letter disrespectful to WCC and of an arrogant nature.

Yes, the goal for the members is to get a new clubhouse with access that will not be disrupted by public protest. I would also suggest you do not concern yourself with the cost of such a clubhouse and the procurement of equipment and how it will be paid for.

The management and committee at WCC have done a sterling job in getting the financial position of the club manageable. When the deal/deals are finalised, WCC will be in a healthy position and the notion that we will have to sell parcels of land to stay liquid is nonsense, unless you are privy to the finances of WCC and know something we don’t.

I agree that a clubhouse does not bring new members. However, I believe a safer access to the club will. I also believe that people join a golf club to enjoy the test of golf that the course provides as well as the ability to make it an enjoyable experience.

WCC does and will continue to provide that experience and facility, and that is why we have golfers as well as bowlers and squash players who have been members for many, many years.

I am also in agreement that all golf clubs are struggling financially, and unless the clubs do something positive to remedy the situation, they will fold. Clubs have to do what they have to in order to survive.

We have been badmouthed enough by other clubs and now the suggestion that as wealthy orphans we would gladly be given membership to these clubs. I don’t think so.

I disagree with you and find your suggestion that WCC land should be exchanged for the land at PE Golf Club to be malicious and offensive.

The members of WCC will decide the way forward for its members, which incidentally also include bowls and squash players.

Do you for one minute think that your suggestion would be viewed as “win-win” by any right-minded WCC member? I am proud to be a member of WCC and do not see myself losing my identity and being swallowed up by a club that is actually only interested in the money.

Do not hold your breath and do not expect WCC to come to the financial rescue of any other golf clubs.