April has arrived – No showers as yet, but the weather has warmed up, the sun is out, all is well in the Allen household. Amazing what a little sunshine will do.

I arrived early for the March Medal, only to be greeted by the presence of Gary the Head green keeper. “We’ve had cattle on the course” he said, “What there is no pasture land anywhere near by, how far have they travelled, where have they gone, what damage have they done”. Gary and his staff had donned their ten gallon hats put on their spurs and the rodeo was over in a jiffy. They herded them away and they were last seen heading towards Elmbridge. “What attracted them” I said, “the lush grass or the Garlic treatment Gary has been spreading on the greens”. Who knows but the green keepers’ freezers are full of prime beef! Well done to Gary and his staff who have worked hard and repaired the damage to the 3^rd, 4^th and 13^th greens.

On April 21^st we are having a Divot party, why its called a party I have no idea, but it was interesting and rewarding work last year, it also gives you a chance to meet the green staff whilst helping to maintain our course. All are welcome, it starts at 6.00pm, bring a bucket and hand trowel to make it easier to apply the divoting material. Some of us are having a meal afterwards, Lasagne or Curry – if you wish to join us please contact Simon and Shirley giving them as much notice as possible.

On Sunday 25^th April we are having an Open Day; our aim is to promote our club and to attract existing golfers to join us subject to interview. Details of the Open Day information pack are on display but we will be inviting prospective members to play a few holes over the front nine from 1pm. Although we anticipate a good response, we hope to minimise disruption for members but feel that the opportunity to attract new members is worth the inconvenience. I hope that you feel the same. We will also be targeting those new to golf and juniors.

You can help us in two ways:

·        Promote the Open Day and spread the word,

·        Volunteer your services to 'meet and greet' or as a 'playing ambassador'.

As always, your committee welcomes ideas and suggestions. If you have something you wish to share or suggest, why not talk to us.

On the Social front, Simon and Shirley are putting on a Thai food theme night on Friday 23^rd April, contact them direct, but hurry because these events fill up fast.

I am trying to organise a Line Dancing Evening for Saturday 15^th May at 8.00pm. There will be no charge and you can just turn up on the night, learn to line dance with Stuart, dress for the occasion, jeans if you want. Some people may like to have food, this separate so please pre book with Simon and Shirley well in advance.

Our Joint Captains Charity Ball is on 12 th June. Click here to see poster and menu, please book you place early to avoid disappointment as this function normally fills up very quickly.

That’s all for now, but a little reminder that the Company AGM is on Thursday 22^nd April

Clive Allen