The new driving force at Southerndown

SOUTHERNDOWN Golf Club was driving in a different direction last weekend during the coronavirus outbreak, writes Tony Poole.

Initial government restrictions led to clubs having to close down clubhouse catering services, but the Ogmore-bySea club was quick to react to the rapidly changing situation.

With some Southerndown members self isolating, at short notice a delivery takeaway service swung into action.

The “Meals on Wheels” service - under the guidance of club franchise caterer Chris Cadogan – proved popular with members living in the Bridgend area who were isolating at home.

“Our franchise caterer Chris Cadogan did a fantastic job in providing a hot meal for members, who were isolated at home during these trying and extraordinary times,” said Southerndown Director of Golf John Peters.

“You sense an amazing spirit to combat coronavirus is now developing throughout the country, and we were looking to embrace it at Southerndown Golf Club.

“On a personal note, it was a pleasure last weekend to be able to help people, and get involved with all that’s now happening in a rapidly changing world.’’

Last week the golf course also remained open, and members enjoyed 18 holes played under new guidelines from the game’s governing body, The Royal & Ancient, with social distancing a top priority.

However, things changed on Monday evening when Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced more stringent measures to combat the threat posed by COVID-19.

Included in new restrictions were the closure of all UK golf clubs, and Southerndown reacted immediately in issuing a statement via their Twitter account.

“Southerndown Golf Club along with all golf clubs in the United Kingdon has to close with immediate effect.

This includes the golf course and clubhouse along with the Pro-Shop and all catering services.

While the club fully respects that golf is a fun exercise for many, we cannot put both members and visitors at risk.

However, these new guidelines will be monitored on a daily basis with updates released accordingly.

Above everything else – stay safe.”