Club where Olympian Justin Rose trained closes to new members

The course on the exclusive Goodwood estate, in West Sussex, has proved so popular that, as of December 31, its book will be closed.

Eddie Bullock, the non-executive director of the club, said the decision was taken to ensure players still have the best possible golf experience.

Any new applications for membership will be asked to join a waiting list.

He said the credit membership scheme, introduced in 2006, has shown that having innovative, flexible schemes can encourage participation, even in difficult times.

Clubs across England have seen a net loss of members over the period 2014 and 2015 whereas Goodwood has seen a net gain of over 600 members and this year Golf At Goodwood has been receiving an average of 30 applications for membership each month.

Mr Bullock said their new flexible membership helped encourage women and young players to join Goodwood.

He added: ‘I have been involved with the club for six years and in that time the team has continued to challenge convention. By delivering innovative and memorable golf experiences, Golf At Goodwood has 
grown against the current UK trend.

‘Watching Justin Rose – a former ambassador of the club – winning a gold medal at the Rio Olympics, will hopefully inspire new players to take up the game and I hope that Golf At Goodwood can be at the forefront of this movement.’