GOLF clubs have been having a tough time in the recession, but one North East club is bucking the depressing trend and honing its game both on and off the course.

After securing its long-term future on its magnificent course at High Gosforth Park, just north of Newcastle, The Northumberland Golf Club has embarked on an ambitious plan to propel it into the 21st Century, while at the same time exploding many of the myths which seem to have surrounded the club for many years.

The first phase of the plans has seen a major extension to the main lounge coupled with a total refurbishment and upgrading of the changing, shower and toilet facilities, all done to a four-star standard.

Members and guests can now enjoy unrestricted panoramic views of the first and 18th holes through the new large bay windows, as well as from the new terrace which has reconnected the lounge with the course.

“The extension blends in well with the original building and demonstrates that, whilst introducing the best of modern facilities, the club has retained its traditional standards,” says club chairman James Heppell.

“I believe that we have achieved our aim of at least matching any of the clubhouse facilities offered by the new breed of proprietary golf clubs while still retaining the core values of being a members club – rather than having to give priority to the overriding interests and profit making for shareholders.”

Impressive as the clubhouse now is, the prime asset of The Northumberland Golf Club is undoubtedly its magnificent course which has staged many national and international amateur and professional events.

A new programme of investment has provided the club with the latest greenkeeping equipment coupled with work on drainage, greens and bunkers which has already ensured a major reduction in course closures despite everything the weather has thrown at the region in recent years.