Simon rises to the challenge
Oct 9 2008 by Golf North East
PERCY Wood Golf and Country Club has appointed Simon Olver as their new course manager.
Simon, aged 27, has joined them from Dunstanburgh Castle Golf Club and is relishing the challenge as he believes Percy Wood has the potential to become one of Northumberland's top golfing destinations.
He said: "This is a fantastic opportunity and I am very excited at the future prospects here at Percy Wood. I have implemented a structured three year plan which will cover full drainage of the course, the rebuilding of the teeing areas, construction of new bunkers and the introduction of new water features and mounds. I believe this will deliver to players a great golfing experience for all standards of golfer."
Opened in 1993, this delightful golf and country club is now owned by Percy Wood Leisure who completed the purchase four years ago.
Since then, the group has invested heavily in the club with a massive expansion of the accommodation on offer and there is to be significant further investment in new machinery to cover all aspects of course maintenance and construction work.
Simon added: This vast investment will make a big difference to the golf course and over the winter period we will be updating our five luxury cabins and putting together fantastic golf packages and holiday deals which will include full use of the park's facilities."
Simon started as a trainee at Dunstanburgh Castle on leaving school and after obtaining his qualifications he was appointed head green-keeper at the age of 21.
He hopes to further his career at Percy Wood completing his Level 4 and enrolling in business development courses.
As course manager, Simon has responsibility for all the staff, the course and driving range, clubhouse, chalets and golf shop.
He said: "The facilities here at Percy Wood are first class. The floodlit driving range is being updated with the addition of new exciting targets and greens. The clubhouse is open to the general public, providing weekly entertainment and offers a fully stocked bar and a-la-carte restaurant.
"And the pro shop is one of Northumberland's busiest, stocked with all the top brands and managed by our resident professional Peter Ritchie."
In Spring 2009, Simon and his staff will be re-launching the full complex with free open days (subject to availability) for anyone interested in becoming a member. In addition complete corporate packages are to be provided along with a range of personal membership deals.
For further information, telephone 01670 787010, e-mail enquiries@percywood.co.uk or visit the website: www.percywood.co.uk
