Ganstead members take over

GANSTEAD PARK members have completed the purchase of the golf club from the family that owned and ran the Hull facility.

The future of golf at the club was secured after more than 90 per cent of the club’s 400 members voted to take it over when it was put up for sale last year. The members’ buy-out also means the 12 staff who help run the golf club will keep their jobs.

L-R: Neil Waterhouse from HSBC, Neal Hammond (director of Ganstead Park Golf Club) and Mike Milner (general manager of Ganstead Park Golf Club). Picture courtesy of Darren Casey/DC imaging

Neal Hammond, director of Ganstead Park Golf Club, said: “To be able to acquire Ganstead Park GC for our members is fantastic for the future of this club.

“We’ve always been focused on building a community around the club and believe we’ve built a golf course with a fantastic inclusive and educational atmosphere.

“With other regional courses being bought for land redevelopment in recent years, we’re reassured that Ganstead Park Golf Club can continue to function as a golf course and employer in the hands of our members.”

The club has been part of the area’s golfing community for more than four decades. The group raised a quarter of the purchase price, with HSBC supporting the takeover with a £525,000 commercial loan.

Neil Waterhouse, HSBC’s senior business manager for North Yorkshire and Humber, said: “We believe that the Ganstead Park Golf Club members have the best understanding of how to manage the future of this club. We are delighted to provide financial support to ensure the golf club can remain an active part of the community for golfers of all ages for many years to come.”