Stability at last for golf club

AFTER being put into receivership last year by its previous owners, High Legh Park Golf Club near Lymm, Warrington, has been acquired by successful businessman Andrew Vaughan who has promised to stabilise club finances in the short term and unlock its true potential through long term investment.
Andrew, who had moved away from the North West to pursue business interests, is now intent on moving back to the area to take a hands-on approach in developing the club’s future. He took over in January and immediately wrote to members to outline his blueprint for the club which he sees as a long term project.
Situated not far from the M6 on the A50 Warrington Road, High Legh Park Golf Club opened in 1998 and boasts a state-of-the-art clubhouse with first class business and function facilities. Its challenging 18 hole course – set in historic parkland – was designed by Manchester-born former Ryder Cup Captain Mark James and offers a true test of golfing skills.
Mr Vaughan, who beat several other interested parties to purchase the Club, said: “I am very excited at the prospect of overseeing the long term transformation of this fine golf club. Whilst the club has undoubtedly suffered from a period of neglect, I believe it has the potential and the facilities which, with the right management and investment, can develop quickly into one of Cheshire’s premier golf venues.”
“It is my intention to invest significantly in the club and its facilities. The course will see immediate short term investment and, with the help of appointed experts, we will develop and implement a long term Course Development Plan.”
“What has also really impressed me in my short time here is the welcoming and relaxed atmosphere around the clubhouse. Our members are a huge asset to the club and their enlightened modern approach to playing the game is a great strength. I am determined to retain and develop this ethos and this will be a major plus point for the Club in the years ahead.”
Despite only recently taking up his position, Andrew has already established a franchise agreement for the pro shop and golfing services with leading Cheshire Club Professional and businessman Gavin Beddow.
“Gavin has proved, at other courses in Cheshire, that he can introduce a wide range of quality golfing products to the pro shop and increase profitability for the course as a whole. I’m confident Gavin will soon establish an operation that will enable our members to boast one of the best Pro Golf Shops in the County.”
Inside the clubhouse things are looking up too with a new bar agreement being reached with Carlsberg Breweries, adding greater choice and value to the welcome 19th hole.
Andrew has already acknowledged the disruption to members over the last few months with an announcement to keep fees in 2011 at the same price as 2010.
New members are very welcome and will also be rewarded if they pay a full fee on joining before the 1st April 2011 as they will then pay nothing until April 2012. Visitors are also welcome.
Andrew adds: “I don’t think there has ever been a better time to be a member of High Legh Park Golf Club. I am determined to put this club up where it belongs – amongst Cheshire’s golfing elite.”
For more information visit www.highleghpark.com