An English golf club say they are “beyond gutted” after vandals deliberately “sabotaged” several greens overnight.
Bondhay Golf Club, in Nottinghamshire, released a statement after seven greens on its 18-hole Devonshire Course were targeted on Saturday night. Images show severe damage to putting surfaces after large chunks of turf were ripped out of the greens. Club officials say the damage was caused by a shovel.
“The Devonshire Course has been hit by a clear act of vandalism and sabotage overnight with seven out of 18 greens being clearly dug up severely using a shovel,” a statement read. “The greens team are out working hard making repairs as we speak, but this may mean some disruption to your round through the use of temporary greens.
“We are beyond gutted to be writing this. It is beyond any doubt that this is an intentional act and we will be taking the matter to the police immediately.”
In an update, the club confirmed that the course remains open, but repair work is still ongoing at several greens. Bosses say there is a £1,000 reward for information that leads to a conviction.
“Following the devastating criminal damage to our greens overnight, the team have grafted all day to tackle it the best they can,” a further update read.
“Thank you to all of our team for giving up their day, we appreciate you all more than words can describe. Also, a huge thank you to College Pines GC for sending manpower and to those, including fellow local clubs, who have offered their support either in words or their time – this means a great deal to us all.
“We are offering a £1,000 reward to anyone who comes forward with information that leads to a conviction.
“The pattern of damage suggests someone who knows their way around golf is responsible, strategically carried out to prevent play on seven greens. However, all possible motives are being considered at this time. The police are already involved.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact the club’s Operations Director, Josh Clarke.
It is the latest in a long line of deliberate attacks on golf greens across the UK in recent years, with clubs from Aberdeen to Sussex reporting similar incidents involving vehicles, chemicals and hand tools used to damage playing surfaces overnight.