Charm of village life and an expanding golf course
THE Burton Mail shone a spotlight on the village of Stretton in November 1984 in a bid to portray its charm to unaware readers.
The piece read: “Originally a small agricultural village, Stretton has grown considerably in recent years as a result of major housing development.
“The east access to the A38 has made Stretton a very popular residential area for people working in the Burton and Derby areas.
“The village itself retains very much a rural character and offers excellent facilities for shopping and other services.
“The local shops and businesses take pride in offering a friendly and personal service.”
The piece went on to highlight the now-demolished Craythorne Golf Centre.
The golf centre first opened its doors in 1973 as a driving range and cafeteria.
In December 1973 the venue was granted an alcohol licence which resulted in the opening of a lounge bar in May 1974 together with a nine-hole, par 27 golf course and changing rooms.
The year of 1975 saw the opening of a putting green and various alterations which culminated in the opening of a nine-hole, 37 par course in May 1978.
In June 1981, Craythorne was picked as pub of the month by CAMRA. In the summer of that year, major extensions including a lounge bar, games rooms, restaurant, changing rooms, toilets and a gift shop were built.
In May 1982 a further nine holes were opening making Craythorne a full 18-hole course.
Further improvements in 1983 included a new central bar and carvery restaurant.
After standing derelict for several years, a large fire destroyed the building in July 2014.