Windermere Golf Club in Cumbria has announced the appointment of new Chairman, Steve Bell and Club Captain, Cliff Heath, heralding an exciting new era for the historic club, which celebrates its 125th anniversary this year. It is hoped that the appointment of both Bell and Heath, members of the club for 30 years and 36 years, respectively, will help increase membership and build on 2015’s record visitor numbers.
Kendal based Bell, who worked for HSBC across South Lakeland and North Lancashire until 2013, is excited about the prospect of building on the club’s success and as he explains, has seen many changes in his 30 year membership.
“I’m very much looking forward to my new role as Chairman and am hoping that the skills I have developed in a service industry will be an asset to the club.” he said. “Like all golf clubs across the country, Windermere faces challenging times ahead. In the coming year, we need to focus on maintaining competitive green fees, retain members and recruit new ones. Upholding our traditions and values whilst embracing a modern approach will be key.”
Grasmere based Heath’s experience of the industry includes serving as Cumbria County Captain from 2005 and leading the team to victory in 2009 at both the Northern Counties Strokeplay and Matchplay championships for the first time in 99 years. In 2011, he was elected the County Golf President. He managed a Lancashire Acrylics Company with a £187 million turnover and more than 2000 employees during the latter stage of his career and served as Chairman of Windermere Golf Club from 2014-16.
“I am delighted to be taking on the role of Club Captain for 2016, a position that is a great privilege to hold.” he said. “I’m also extremely pleased to be passing the Chairman baton to Steve and am sure that under his steady hand, the club will continue to flourish.”
Windermere Golf Club is situated in the heart of the Lake District, with breath-taking views across the fells and surrounding area. Recently referred to as a ‘miniature Gleneagles’ by the golfing press, the club was established in 1891 and has more than 700 members across all age ranges.
Despite Cumbria’s wet weather, Windermere Golf Club is played all year round, with an extensive ‘greens improvement’ operation undertaken in 2005 at a cost of £750,000 and built to USGA standards.
Renowned PGA Head Professional, Simon Edwards, provides tuition at the club, having worked with some of the world’s finest teachers such as Jim Flick, David Leadbetter and Dave Pelz.
Windermere Golf Club www.windermeregolfclub.co.uk