John Winter

Dunstable Downs Golf Club

What are the special features of the course?

It is set 800ft up in the Chilterns and enjoys stunning views across five counties. Strategically placed bunkers, doglegs, blind tee shots and two-tier greens challenge the best. The putting surfaces are true, quick and with subtle borrows and breaks. Working with the RSPB, we are rewilding to reintroduce the Dunstable lark, orchids are protected by GUR signs and red kites, buzzards and skylarks abound.

Why is Dunstable Downs the right club for you?

The course is the jewel, but the members and staff just make it such a great place to be. I am never short of a game, whether it’s playing in the winter league, club matches or competitions in all formats.

How has the course changed since you joined?

James Braid designed the course in the 1930s and we’ve been fortunate to keep his blueprint. Real efforts are being made to bring back the area’s unique downland characteristics. Tree specialist John Nicholson has recommended tree and scrub clearances, new irrigation is ongoing and the bunker refurbishment is really taking shape.