Golf club pledges further investment and new jobs

A MIDLAND golf club has completed a £1m investment programme. Work on the Gaudet Luce Golf Club in Droitwich has involved a new-look clubhouse, the installation of a state-of-the-art driving range and a new par three course.

The club is owned by Martin Fernihough, his son Alec and daughter-in-law Jenny. It was founded in 1995 since when the investment has been ongoing.

The 18-year overhaul has also included the planting of 30,000 new trees and course improvements including drainage, new bunkers and a tee renovation programme.

Despite the tough financial climate, operations director Alec Fernihough pledged a further £50,000 would be ploughed into the club this year with the construction of an indoor coaching facility and clubhouse upgrades.

He said: “Our family has owned and ran the club for 18 years and during that time we have put so much work into remodelling the 18-hole course, building the new par three course and developing a number of facilities alongside our award-winning coaching programmes.

“That has taken a big commitment on a number of levels but it is fantastic to see that hard work beginning to attract more people than ever to the club.

“It is no secret that times have been tough for all businesses over the past few years but we’re determined to keep offering first-class facilities for members and visitors by continuing to invest.”

Mr Fernihough, who has just agreed to join the board of directors for UK Golf Club Owners Association also said that the club, which has over 800 members, is looking to expand its 36-strong workforce.

“The investment is beginning to pay off but we’ve also put a lot of work into making the course appealing and welcoming to people. That has been helped greatly by our fantastic team – whether that’s on the golf side, in the pro shop or within our wedding and conferencing department,” he added.