Due to the extensive damage caused to the course during recent winters by the wheels of electric trolleys, Council has passed a motion restricting the use of electric trolleys on the course except for those fitted with 'winter wheels'.

This restriction will come into effect on Tuesday the First of November 2016 or such other date as the Greens Convenor should see fit if weather conditions dictate. It will apply to all categories of membership and visitors alike.

It is envisaged that the restriction will remain in place until the start of the new golf season at the end of March 2017.

'Pull trolleys' are unaffected by this restriction.

There are several different designs of winter wheels in common use and some examples of these appear below but the common thread between them is that they are designed to prevent wheel spin. This is accomplished by either the presence of an open lattice structure across the surface of the tyre or by the use of rubber studs (often referred to as 'Hedgehog wheels').

(For the avoidance of doubt, wheels which are merely wider than average (designed for use on hilly courses) are not recognised as winter wheels as described above. These are not permitted to be used during this restriction.)

Our Professional -Ricky Duckett- stocks several brands of recognised winter wheels. He has indicated that if sufficient numbers of people place early orders with him he will be able to negotiate a better price with his suppliers and be in a position to pass this on to the members. It should be emphasised that this can only happen if the orders are placed with him as soon as possible. 

It is recognised that this restriction may be unpopular with some but members should bear in mind that its purpose is to protect the golf course during the wet winter months thereby ensuring that it can be better presented during the playing season. It is also noteworthy that in previous years a significant number of members have voluntarily ceased using their electric trolleys (and used light carry bags etc) due to the obvious damage being done by the wheels - this remains as a further option open to the members.

Michael Tierney (Greens Convenor)

Common types of Winter Wheels

Conventional

'Hedgehog'