Course Notes - 13.01.26

🌿 Course Notes

🗓 13th January 2026

✍ From Tom, Course Manager

❄️ Course Conditions

As expected for mid-winter, we are experiencing a full range of challenging weather conditions. December recorded 115mm of rainfall, close to the monthly average of 118mm. Since the start of the year, continued wet weather combined with a prolonged freezing spell has made both play and course maintenance more difficult.

⛳ Greens Update

We aim to cut the greens 1–2 times per week, when ground conditions allow the team access. During freezing conditions we are unable to carry out routine tasks such as mowing or moving hole locations and we appreciate your patience and understanding during these periods.

As mentioned in last month’s update, once soil temperatures consistently exceed 10°C, we will begin our spring programme of feeding, aeration, topdressing and over-seeding.

We would also greatly appreciate increased attention to pitchmark repair, as many are currently being left unattended.

🏐 Range Ball Collecting

Hand collecting range balls remains challenging at this time of year. Thank you for your patience while the range is closed during morning collections - our aim is to reopen by 09:00 each day.

During freezing conditions, it is not always possible to wash and clean the balls to our usual standard, so we apologise if ball cleanliness is occasionally below expectations.

💦 9th Ditch – Water Flow Management

Some members have asked why water flow into the ditches crossing the 9th fairway has been restricted. This is a preventative measure to reduce the risk of overflow during heavy rainfall.

The first section of the ditch is particularly prone to flooding, which can impact the 5th and 8th greens, often resulting in the loss of 1–2 days of play due to water-logging. Managing flow helps minimise this disruption where possible.

📝 Next Update: February

— TN