‘Figures confirm golf is actually on the rise’

Councillor Jonathan Chowen states in his article reported on February 4 that ‘it was public knowledge that golf is on the decline’.

He should check his facts before making such profound statements. The latest figures from England Golf confirm that golf membership is on the rise in England, even though costs are also increasing.

The survey confirmed that golf is the 5th largest participation sport in England and that 3.7 million people played at some time last year.

In total, two million people play golf at least twice a month. Golfers are playing at older ages and the survey confirms that golf is good for your health and can save local authorities millions. (https://www.golfmonthly.com/news/golf-is-good-for-your-health-save-authorities-millions-153258).

It is hardly surprising that with more people working from home, the opportunity of playing golf during the day and making up the time spent at home later is an obvious incentive for people to be flexible in their work/leisure activity planning.

As a member of Rookwood golf club, I can confirm that tee times are becoming booked much quicker than a year or two ago, confirming the increased demand.

As the Conservative government was keen to promote the benefits of golf to the nations health and wellbeing, it is surprising that local conservative councillors should be promoting something contrary to that.