News and Events
Statement Regarding England Golf
14th January 2012
Westgate and Birchington Golf Club welcomes a new era for English Golf, as from 1 January 2012, we look forward to being represented by one governing body.
The English Golf Union and the Womens Golf Association have merged to form Golf England.
This has been hailed as a triumph for golf and a vital step forward for the game.
England Golf will speak with one voice. It will send out a powerful modern message that golf is a game for all, men, women, boys and girls. This will help grow the game and be more appealing to commercial partners and much more cost effective
Facts regarding the merger:
Work has been underway for the past five years. The merger was approved by 86% of E.G.U. members and 1005 of W.G.A at simultaneous general meetings. The headquarters will be at Woodhall Spa at the National Golf Centre. The W.G.A headquarters at Edgbaston will be phased out to save money.
Counties will continue to be voting members and will be encouraged to merge their Unions and Associations and create less sexism and elitism. The Board will comprise of 10 stake holder non-executive directors – six men, four women – one will be nominated as Chairman. The first sole President will be a women, the President will then be supported by the Past and President elect.
Members of Clubs should benefit with better support. Affiliation fees will be harmonised and will be equal by 2014. The Welsh merger in 2007 has been very successful. The Scottish golf attempt to merge failed!
All communications will be sent to the Club Secretary / Manager. A delegate will be asked to represent the Club at various County Meetings. It has been suggested that one lady and gentle man attend the first meetings. More details will follow.
The Board of Directors thanks Mrs Shirley Cross for participating and reporting on this matter.
