ON Monday, March 23, the government gave the briefing that all golfers were dreading.

This was just as the golfing season was about to get underway. All golf was to cease, people to stay at home and avoid contact with others. Days later “The Masters” golf tournament from Augusta, Georgia was due to be played. This really is the confirmation to golfers all around the world, that the new golfing year has arrived.

Meanwhile, Okehampton Golf Club members were putting away their clubs and trolleys safely, hoping that as the days turned into weeks, then months, there may be some light at the end of a very dark tunnel. The weather seemed to be goading the members as every day seemed to be perfect for a round.

On Sunday, May 10, some seven weeks after the lockdown announcement, the government gave all golfers hope that they would soon be strolling down the fairways.

After some serious safety planning and guidance for members, Okehampton Golf Club was finally reopened, albeit with many and varied restrictions to ensure safety for all.

Whilst the golf course was closed, the decision was made to keep the course manager Ricky and full time green keeper Mike working as normal, in order to keep the course in the best condition, ready for play to resume as soon as the go ahead was given.

As no play had occurred for weeks and the warm Spring sunshine had gone to work on the fairways and greens, members arrived back to find the course in stunning condition with not a divot or pitch mark to repair.

Effectively the course had been given a seven-week holiday in which to rest and recuperate; something which it clearly had taken full advantage of.

Since the course has reopened there has been a real positive buzz around the club, despite the restrictions.

Members have been excited to get back out playing and thrilled with the excellent condition of the course.

As many people have been at home during this glorious spell of weather, the thought of starting to play golf or returning to the sport, has obviously been on their mind. We have been inundated with requests for joining information and many new members have already enjoyed their first round.

Golf is back at Okehampton Golf Club and with renewed excitement after a long lay off, members are thoroughly enjoying the beautiful course and company of fellow players.

Club Captain Steve Mander said: “I am absolutely delighted that we are back open and playing again.

"The closure of the course was hard for golfers who are used to being out in the fresh air with their friends having some gentle but essential exercise.

"Now we are back up and running, our members are looking forward to a gradual relaxation of the Covid-19 restrictions to enable them to play competitive golf, not only with other members of the Club, but also with visitors from other clubs in the area.

"I am really confident that Okehampton Golf Club is going to have a fantastic year and I am very proud to be a member.”