Parky cuts up rough with Chinese over Wentworth

DAVID CAMERON’S muchheralded warming of relations with China could be hit into the rough at the Wentworth Club, whose members include TV knights michael Parkinson, right, and Bruce Forsyth.

Restaurant tycoon Richard Caring sold the home of European golf and unofficial birthplace of the Ryder Cup to Beijing billionaire Dr Chanchai Ruayrungruang for £135million last year. All 4,000 members, who currently pay £8,000 annual fees, were told they would be asked to apply for just 800 places, coughing up a staggering £100,000 for the privilege. Now Parkinson, who criticised the ‘barmy’ changes, has turned down a free honorary membership out of solidarity with fellow golfers. This week, a special meeting of the Wentworth Residents’ Association is being held as part of a major uprising against the new owners.

‘members are up in arms about these ludicrous proposals, not least residents, many of whom bought properties on the Surrey estate to have access to the course,’ says resident Nigel moss, due to speak to the meeting. ‘It is going to be fiery, as they have run out of patience. The feeling is that a great institution is being ruined.’