Golfers left below par by balls complaint

GOLFERS at Lelant say complaints that wayward tee-shots are damaging a neighbouring property has 'ruined' one of Cornwall's most prestigious courses.

Members of West Cornwall Golf Club, the oldest course in the county, have been forced to play a dramatically shortened first hole after a resident of a newly-built housing development threatened legal action.

The testing 229-yard par three was reduced to a 130-yard chip and run at the start of June after claims roof tiles and conservatory panes had been damaged.

Chris Hatton, a member for five years, said: “The first hole is one of the highlights of the course, perhaps the most wonderful hole in West Country golf, and it sets us apart.

“Given the wrong wind conditions a sliced drive can cross the road but it seems a shame to ruin such a wonderful hole.

“I have hit a few balls in that direction but usually you have a laugh with the person and I don't think golf balls do a lot of damage.

“I would not have thought there would be that many balls hitting one person's house.”

The new development, which comprises 10 three-storey flats, two bungalows, a house and four terraced cottages, was built on the site of the Old Manor Nursing Home and opened around 18 months ago.

Club secretary Gareth Evans said: “The situation has been ongoing for 12 to 18 months and following a solicitor's letter we have taken a decision to make the situation safe pending negotiations. We have had a couple of informal meetings, are trying to come to a suitable conclusion, and want the hole to be as before or as close as we can get it.

“The majority of members think it is unreasonable and that it should be the responsibility of the developer not the club.

“I can understand their disappointment because the development has been there for two years and we have been here for 120.”

Mr Evans said Penwith District Council had refused permission to increase the height of the existing four-metre-high fence to contain balls.

He said a number of trees which used to shield the former nursing home had been felled during construction.

Further discussions regarding the compensation claim are expected soon followed by a meeting with the 500 members.