New course manager for Thetford GC

By Alistair May 31, 2024 08:43

Thetford Golf Club in Norfolk has appointed Matthew Perks as its new course manager.

The heathland course, founded in 1912 and originally designed by C.H. Mayo, and later modified by James Braid, sits within two sites of special scientific interest (SSSI) and is the only surviving area of a once extensive tract of Breckland Heath which is of significant international importance due to the rarity of the flora and fauna found within the 270 acre site.

Improvements are being made across the course, including a complete renovation of all 72 bunkers, new course furniture and equipment, and a new borehole pump to ensure the irrigation system has enough water for the playing surfaces. A large heathland regeneration project is also already underway.

Matt also brings a huge amount of knowledge and experience to the club from his previous position as course manager at La Moye Golf Club in Jersey, and not just in terms of agronomy, but also sustainable golf course management, tournament preparation and project management, where he oversaw the course preparation for two Legends Tour events. This experience and knowledge will prove invaluable as Thetford Golf Club has ambitious plans to drive the course condition forwards by improving water security resources and irrigation, as well as upgrading the maintenance facility with a new water recycling wash pad.

Matt is ably assisted by deputy course manager Stuart, first assistant David and assistant greenkeepers, Rocky, Luke and Jamie.

“There is already a real buzz amongst the membership from the changes that have been made which have yielded such rapid improvements, and were only just getting started,” he said. “The land upon which the course sits is incredible and all the raw materials are here for a real showstopper of a golf course, it’s an incredibly exciting time to be a part of Thetford Golf Club.”