THE pandemic has provided countless problems for families all over the Central Fife area and way beyond.

But the crisis has brought impetus to Lochgelly Golf Club’s recruitment drive for new members with their numbers having more than doubled since March 2020.

With the new season upon us the Cartmore Road venue now has over 260 on their books and there are high hopes that even more will sign up as Spring moves into summer.

Committee member, Liam Young, said that a couple of years back the numbers dipped towards 100 mark but the past 12 months has seen that all turn around.

“During last season we saw 80 new members join up and already, in 2021, the total has advanced by 74, taking the total over 260 now, which has been a massive boost to everyone connected with the club,” he said.

“As lockdown started to lift last summer the rise in numbers began to accelerate with people on furlough and working from home seeing golf as a chance to get some good exercise and an enjoyable hobby.”

Lochgelly's pleasant parkland course, par 68, has fine views of the Ochil and Lomond hills and players managed to get out on the course from last June into the winter months.

The course has remained open during he most recent lockdown, when the weather allowed, although the clubhouse has been closed.

The easing of restrictions should bring a return to near normality from Monday and Liam added: “Due to the increased membership we were able to recruit another member to our green staff and the team has been working hard at creating good putting surfaces and making the course look attractive.

“Our clubhouse team is led by Vera Ferns and it has been a difficult year for her with restaurant and bar facilities out of action for the past four months, but they are hoping for much better times this summer and the restaurant and beer garden will be in action by the end of the month.”

The club committee is also keen to reach out to the business community.

Added Liam: “We have 12 of our tee signs sponsored by local firms and we would like to see the other six get backers this season.

“It is a chance for people in the local business community to sell themselves on the course, which will be busy every day and anyone who wants to get involved can send a message to info@lochgellygolfclub.co.uk”

Stephen Moran, currently overseeing the pro shop, added: “This is a grand club and the members are a very friendly group who always have a story to tell about their experiences on the course.

“Everyone is enthusiastic about the new season and looking forward to improving their handicaps.”

There will be competitions running on Tuesdays and Thursdays with Sunday medals and sweep competitions on Saturdays.

They're also hoping to attract more lady members and youths and said the committee have more improvement plans in the pipeline.