Having read about the positive experiences of other clubs making the switch, the team at Gloucestershire’s Minchinhampton Golf Club are themselves now discovering the efficiency and safety benefits of Aspen alkylate petrol.
Used across a suite of 2-stroke equipment, club Mechanic Tom Dorey notes the significant reduction in costly faults and breakdowns, while its delivery by the barrel has reduced the time and risks associated with transporting fuel from the forecourt.
Minchinhampton comprises of 36-holes at the New Course site along with a further 18-holes at the historic Old Course – established in 1889 and situated 4 miles away on SSSI common land, managed in partnership with the National Trust. The third, the parkland Avening Course, has been used on multiple occasions as an Open Qualifying venue. Looking after the maintenance is a team of 17 greenkeepers who, alongside Mechanic Tom, keep the large machinery fleet and busy courses in tip-top condition.
“I was familiar with Aspen Fuel from personal experience but was seeing more articles in the press about facilities switching over and felt it was worth exploring,” explains Tom. “We spoke with some other golf clubs and then met with Aspen’s Roy Narbey at BTME in 2025 who arranged a trial of Aspen-2 for us. The rest, as they say, is history and we’ve recently just taken delivery of our second barrel.”
Being virtually free from ethanol, aromatics and benzene Aspen alkylate petrol presents a 99% cleaner fuel when compared with traditional pump fuel. The significantly reduced emissions not only benefit the health and safety of the operator but also contributes to increased sustainability standards, helping the team to meet the courses environmental responsibilities.
Like other Aspen users, Minchinhampton quickly discovered the immediate benefits but were pleasantly surprised by the further ‘wins’ that came from the switch. “The difference was notable almost immediately. The team all commented on the better working environment when using tools such as backpack blowers and hedgecutters and reported the reduction in fumes and headaches as soon as we switched.” Tom adds, “In the workshop, servicing of the equipment is now much simpler. I haven’t had to spend time repairing or replacing gummed up carburettors, saving us money and enhancing the overall lifespan of the engines and the equipment.”
Aspen-2’s pre-mixed formula has also eliminated issues with incorrect mixture ratios. “Convenience has been another big plus point, with the fuel readily available on site, pre-mixed so there’s no risk of issues associated with incorrect fuel and oil ratios.”
“The support from Roy throughout the trial and in getting us up and running has also been brilliant. He gave us lots of hints and tips for correct pump operation and getting the most from our equipment.” He concludes, “The experience has been incredibly positive and eventually we hope to extend our use to Aspen-4 for the cleaner running of some of our larger equipment.”
For more details, visit aspenfuel.co.uk