New eco bunker at Thurso golf course hailed as 'a great asset'

An eco-friendly new practice green has been described as "a great asset" for Thurso Golf Club.

A few years ago, club member Clark Grant identified an unused area that could be utilised to further improve the course. At that time, junior convener Laura Durrand suggested the club build an eco bunker – to be assembled using recycled material – and this was achieved after fundraising.

Head greenkeeper Frazer Sparling and the greens staff put in a lot of hard work to get the new practice green looking good and ready for use.

It is located opposite the first tee, about 100 yards from the clubhouse.

Clark said: "The new putting green will be a great asset to the course, providing all members with a large area to practise their putting, chipping and bunker shots."

Laura added: “The juniors in particular will benefit from this as it will give them a lot more space to practise on a Wednesday night."

Lesley Mackay, lecturer in golf studies at UHI North Highland, said: "The short game area really is a fabulous addition to the existing practice facilities at Thurso Golf Club.

"The new area offers an opportunity to practise a variety of types of shot. This will undoubtedly have a positive effect on members' short game.

"Most importantly it will encourage juniors to spend more time working on short game as opposed to long game."

Local business Robin's Fish and Chip Shop has sponsored the new addition to the course and its support will help the club to maintain it.

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