Golf club in Cardiff hits the headlines after electric bikes cause £10,000 of damage
A Cardiff golf club, Whitchurch Golf Club, has been left reeling after more than £10,000 worth of damage was caused by what’s believed to be electric bikes ridden over the fairway. The club has been dealing with a spate of incidents where people have been driving electric bikes onto the course, particularly at night. The most recent incident occurred at 8:30 pm on November 14, leaving deep tracks on the fairways and putting greens, with damage to several holes and chipping greens.
Christian Bannister, the clubhouse manager at Whitchurch Golf Club, expressed how disheartening and soul-destroying it has been for the club. He lamented that due to the season, the grass will not recover until May, forcing the club to use fringes from the edge of the putting greens to repair the damage. Bannister also mentioned that the financial impact of such incidents could be significant, and the club is trying its best to cope with the situation.
Paul Crowe, the general manager of Whitchurch Golf Club, emphasized that they simply want these incidents to stop. With over 1,000 members, the club plays a pivotal role in the local community, hosting various events and collaborating with local schools. The club has reached out to the police and is now seeking help from the public to identify the culprits behind these acts of vandalism.
South Wales Police have reported receiving two complaints of trespass and damage from Whitchurch Golf Club in recent weeks and have increased patrols in the area to prevent further incidents. They have assured that such behaviour will not be tolerated, and investigations are underway. Anyone with information is urged to contact the police or the golf club directly.
In light of the ongoing damage and disruption caused by these incidents, the club is appealing for support and cooperation from the public to ensure the safety and preservation of the golf course. The community’s assistance in identifying those responsible can play a crucial role in putting an end to these destructive acts and safeguarding the club’s facilities for its members and visitors.
It is essential for everyone to recognise the impact of their actions on local amenities and businesses, such as Whitchurch Golf Club, and to show respect for shared spaces. By working together and remaining vigilant, communities can help protect valuable assets like the golf club and uphold a sense of pride and responsibility for their surroundings. The collective effort to address such challenges can lead to a safer and more harmonious environment for all to enjoy.
As the authorities continue to investigate these incidents, the support and cooperation of the public remain vital in bringing those responsible to justice and preventing further damage. By standing together against such destructive behaviours, communities can demonstrate their commitment to upholding the integrity and security of communal spaces like Whitchurch Golf Club. Your involvement and vigilance can make a significant difference in safeguarding cherished local establishments and preserving them for future generations to appreciate.