Presidents Update: February 2020

Welcome to February’s newsletter………. the first for 2020. The winter months are nearly behind us now and like you I am looking forward to Spring, some warmer weather and some lighter nights to enable us to play more golf. Over the past few months the greens staff have been working very hard on the first hole and it is starting to take shape. The recent wet weather has slowed down the re-turfing process, which is very frustrating. I appreciate everyone’s patience whilst the work is taking place.

The soil project is now back on track after the recent problems with Sirius and take over negotiations. We are in constant contact with Teesstone who are working in partnership with Sirius and Saltburn GC. They are preparing the necessary paperwork and plans so we are in a position to take the soil material from the NY Moors mining operation as soon as it is excavated. Phase 1 of the operation will take place on the practice area and phase 2 on the course. We will seek expert advice before phase 2 of the operation takes place.

We have recently employed a new administrative assistant in the office, Julie Ryan. Julie is a great acquisition to the team in the office and I would like to officially welcome her to the club. I would like to thank Sara, John Dunn and John Zoryk for all of their hard work in the recruitment and selection process.

The executive committee are continuing their work on the club’s strategic plan and governance of the club. As part of this work we have sought the views of one of our club members, Kevin Tucker, who is chairman of Yorkshire Union of Golf Clubs and we greatly appreciate his advice and opinion regarding these matters.

I mentioned in the previous newsletter that our professional Mike Howes will be launching a junior academy in Spring. I am pleased to report that Mike has been working hard over the past few months with regard to the project. We are still looking for volunteers to help out with the project so if anyone is interested then please call in and speak to Mike about it.

Don Stubbs and Rebecca Maylard, our respective Men’s and Ladies Captains, are in the process of planning their activities for the year ahead and I wish both of them the very best of luck.

Lastly, may I take this opportunity once again to thank all of the volunteers who give up their own time for the benefit of the club, it is greatly appreciated.

Charlie Bell

SGC President