CH S
U
M
M
E
R
2
0
1
7
THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF CLOSE HOUSE
MASTERS MOMENT
COUNTING DOWN TO THE BRITISH MASTERS SEPT 28-OCT 1
INSIDE On course with Close House members Hole-by-hole guide to the Colt Course Graham Wylie on preparing for the British Masters The latest fashion with PING and Berry’s jewellery
PREMIUM KITCHENS & BATHROOMS U n i t 1 C o o p i e s F i e l d , M o r p e t h , N E 6 1 6 J T | p o l k e ft o n . c o . u k | 0 1 6 7 0 5 0 3 8 6 9 Unit 16 | 17 Sanderson Arcade, Morpeth, NE61 1NS Unit 6B Coopies Lane, Morpeth, NE61 6JN
WEBINARSERIES Covering new revolutionary applications from Microsoft to crucial IT
We’ll be looking at key topics such as:
security from Sophos, TSG’s Futuretech webinars and events host
•
Business Continuity
ground-breaking IT technology.
•
Office 365
Not only will we unravel the concept of ‘digital transformation’, we’ll
•
Security
also break it down into its component parts to ensure that Futuretech
•
Hosted Telephony
is relevant to everyone from the CEO or the FD to the technical team.
•
Business Intelligence
Join one of TSG’s webinars and discover technologies that will dramatically enhance security, communication, collaboration and process efficiency in your business, as well as making your business mobile and flexible to maximise productivity and profitability.
Tel: 0333 220 0777 tsg.com/events
CLOSE HOUSE | Foreword
INSIDE 14 LEE WESTWOOD Major moments and hopes for the British Masters
WELCOME TO CLOSE HOUSE...
S
eptember 28, 2017 will be the most important date in the seven-year history of Close House and a momentous ocassion for golf, and sport, in the North East of England. Come Thursday morning of British Masters week we will have been working on the event for two years, and preparing the Colt Course and estate for 18 months. Those preparations have gone incredibly smoothly thanks to the expertise of the team here, particularly Brian Clark and his greenstaff. As well as preparing for the British Masters, we have continued to develop the Close House experience to ensure we lead the way for a members’ club. We continue to listen to our members’ needs and act on suggestions whether that’s on the golf courses, at the PGA Academy or in No.19. Graham Wylie’s vision for Close
House has always been as a members’ club and I hope every member of Close House will take great pride in being part of the British Masters and enjoy the tournament week. As well as providing the ultimate service for our members, we aim to inspire golfers - whether experienced players or those picking up a club for the first time. The British Masters and Junior Masters, is a fantastic opportunity to do that and introduce people to golf. To those visiting us - welcome to Close House. I hope you enjoy your time here and savour memorable moments on and off the golf courses.
Jonathan Lupton Managing Director
18 THE COLT COURSE Our guide to the host course of the 2017 British Masters 26 THE WYLIE WAY Graham Wylie looks back on 12 remarkable years at Close House 34 NO.19 Relax and dine at Close House 38 LOOK GOOD... The latest fashion from PING and jewellery from Berry’s 58 ON THE ROAD Exploring the best of the North East 66 FIT FOR PURPOSE At the PGA Academy 80 SAVE THE DATE The summer’s biggest events 82 WIN! The Close House experience
produced by Editor Dean Bailey dean@offstonepublishing.co.uk Advertising enquiries@offstonepublishing.co.uk Photography Kevin Gibson and Nicky Rogerson www.kgphotography.co.uk Critical Tortoise www.criticaltortoise.com
publishing
Bearl Farm, Stocksfield, Northumberland, NE43 7AJ tel 01661 844 115 • www.offstonepublishing.co.uk ©Offstone Publishing 2017. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher. All information contained in this magazine is correct at the time of going to press.
www.closehouse.com 5
MASTERS COUNTDOWN The build-up to the 2017 British Masters is almost over
M
omentum is building across the UK ahead of the British Masters at Close House September 28-October 1. Ahead of the earlybird ticket launch in March, 10,000 free Sky Sports Thursday tickets were snapped up in less than half an hour. Everyone at Close House is preparing for the biggest moment in the club’s history, and one of the biggest sporting occasions in the North of England this year. Tournament host and Close House attached tour professional Lee Westwood is already counting down the days until the European Tour returns to the North East - and makes its first visit to the Colt Course at Close House. “The Colt Course looks good, the tweaks we’ve made should test the players and everything is falling into place really well. The team at Close House is putting a huge effort into making sure everything is perfect. Between them, the Tour and Sky Sports it’s going to be a fantastic tournament,” said Lee.
The free tickets have been offered by tournament sponsors Sky Sports following the success of the same initiative at The Grove in 2016. “The British Masters really has become the people’s tournament over the last couple of years and with the tickets being available this year on a first-come, firstserved basis it means everyone has the opportunity to come along, particularly if they haven’t been to a golf tournament before,” added Lee. “The event will be a great showcase for the North East and I know the players who are already confirmed are looking forward to coming up to Newcastle, sampling the famous hospitality and playing the golf course.” Close House members receive a free season pass for the British Masters and can purchase two more for half price. Tickets can be purchased in the golf shop – with a donation from each ticket sale going to the Graham Wylie Foundation. For more information visit www.closehouse.com
Left and right: Luke Donald in action at The Grove in 2016
6 www.closehouse.com
CLOSE HOUSE | The British Masters
“The event will be a great showcase for the North East”
BRITISH MASTERS CHAMPIONS 2016 Alex NOREN 2015 Matthew FITZPATRICK 2008 Gonzalo FDEZ-CASTAÑO 2007 Lee WESTWOOD 2006 Johan EDFORS 2005 Thomas BJØRN 2004 Barry LANE 2003 Greg OWEN 2002 Justin ROSE 2001 Thomas LEVET 2000 Gary ORR 1999 Bob MAY 1998 Colin MONTGOMERIE 1997 Greg TURNER 1996 Robert ALLENBY 1995 Sam TORRANCE 1994 Ian WOOSNAM 1993 Peter BAKER 1992 Christy O’CONNOR JNR 1991 Seve BALLESTEROS 1990 Mark JAMES 1989 Sir Nick FALDO 1988 Sandy LYLE 1987 Mark MCNULTY 1986 Seve BALLESTEROS 1985 Lee TREVINO 1983 Ian WOOSNAM 1982 Greg NORMAN 1981 Greg NORMAN 1980 Bernhard LANGER 1979 Graham MARSH 1978 Tommy HORTON 1977 Guy HUNT 1976 Baldovino DASSU 1975 Bernard GALLACHER 1974 Bernard GALLACHER 1973 Tony JACKLIN 1972 Bob CHARLES
LEE WESTWOOD
www.closehouse.com 7
CLOSE HOUSE | The British Masters
MASTERS HISTORY The British Masters has a rich history as one of the most important professional tournaments in Europe. First held in 1946, the event has been won by many of the game’s greatest players. The first time the event was part of the European Tour schedule, former Open Champion Bob Charles claimed the title. Tony Jacklin was victorious in 1973, followed by Ryder Cup captain Bernard Gallacher in 1974 and 1975. Champions in the 1980s included Ian Woosnam, Bernhard Langer, Seve Ballesteros and Sir Nick Faldo while in the 1990s more Ryder Cup captains were successful in Mark James, Colin Montgomerie and Sam Torrance.
“The people in the North East love their sport. I’m sure we will have great support at Close House in September” LEE WESTWOOD
Crowds at The Grove in 2016 8 www.closehouse.com
Lee Westwood at The Grove in 2016
This year’s host Lee Westwood also lifted the trophy in 2007 at The Belfry. The event returned to the schedule in 2015 when it was played at Woburn and Sheffield’s Matt Fitzpatrick claimed his first European Tour victory, before Alex Noren won at the Grove in 2016. Sky has introduced several new concepts since 2015 - players wearing live microphones during their rounds; masterclasses with leading players including Ian Poulter, Westwood and Luke Donald; and the Hero Par 3 Challenge with celebrities joining the professionals on the course for an evening of entertainment, golf and fireworks. Expect a similarly action-packed week when the British Masters arrives at Close House this September.
LLoyD NEWcaSTLE BMW. The Ultimate Driving Machine
THE NEW BMW 5 SERIES.
This is a car that has been designed with pure ambition. Ambition to be the most innovative car in its class, and connect driver, road and outside world in a truly seamless way. Thanks to its extremely lightweight core, the car’s driving dynamics have been fine-tuned to provide maximum stability, class-leading efficiency and sublime agility. The brand new design has athleticism at its heart and a character that is as confident as it is refined. Visit www.lloydnewcastlebmw.co.uk to find out more and register your interest.
LLoyD NEWcaSTLE BMW
Barrack Road, Newcastle Upon Tyne, Tyne & Wear NE2 4LE Tel: 0191 2617366 www.lloydnewcastlebmw.co.uk Official fuel economy figures for the new BMW 5 Series range: Urban 60.1-29.7mpg (4.7-9.5 l/100km). Extra Urban 74.3-47.8mpg (3.8-5.9 l/100km). Combined 68.8-39.2mpg (4.1-7.2 l/100km). CO2 emissions: 108-164g/km. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions.
CLOSE HOUSE | The Junior Masters
“We want to see kids getting excited about the game, and what better way to do this than offer them a chance to be a part of the tournament and play with some of the best golfers in the world” LEE WESTWOOD
JUNIOR MASTERS As part of the British Masters at Close House, the first Junior Masters will take place across the North this spring and summer
S
even venues will host events as part of the Junior Masters, with two boys and one girl progressing from each of the three age categories at the qualifying venues. Those qualifiers will then play the final of the event on the Filly Course on the Tuesday of British Masters week. The seven qualifying events will be: The Northumberland County Meeting at Seahouses GC (Apr 6), the Close House Filly Junior Open (May 30), The Colin Scott Junior Open at Middlesbrough GC (Jul 28), The Lee Westwood Junior Open at Worksop GC (Jul 31), The Carlisle GC Junior Open (Jul 31), The Durham
10 www.closehouse.com
City Junior Open (Aug 21) and the Seaton Carew Junior Open (Aug 30). The winner, who will receive the trophy from Lee Westwood and prizes from event sponsor PING, will then join all the competitors to watch the world’s best players take on the Hero Challenge on Tuesday evening. They will also tee up in the pro am the following morning alongside some of the biggest names in sport, television and film. “This is a huge opportunity to have a positive impact on junior golf within the region for years to come, and we hope to make this an annual event,” said Graham Wylie.
ARMANI JEANS BARBOUR BELSTAFF CORNELIANI ETON FRED PERRY GANT HUGO BOSS JACOB COHEN JEFFREY-WEST LA MARTINA LBM 1911 MAGNANNI NAPAPIJRI PAUL SMITH STENSTROMS TRUE RELIGION VIVIENNE WESTWOOD
SS17 COLLECTIONS J E S M O N D . K E N D A L . YA R M W W W. J U L E S B . C O . U K
CLOSE HOUSE | Mr Captain
CAPTAIN’S LOG With Close House captain Mel Wanless
I
t’s an honour to open what is sure to be a momentous year in the history of the club, and for golf in the North East of England, as captain of Close House. I follow in the footsteps of some excellent captains, many of them close friends, including my predecessor Alan Beenshill. Alan will be a tough act to follow; both on the golf course, having won the league and cup titles, and off it. It is remarkable to look back at the evolution of Close House and the incredible events which have been held here since the Colt Course opened in 2011. 2017 is sure to be filled with many more highlights, not least the British Masters in September. From what I have already experienced and have learned from my predecessors, a year as captain of Close House is a fantastic experience. Graham Wylie has created something very special here and I can’t thank Jonathan Lupton and the team enough for their support. One of my biggest roles this year will be leading the Hadrian Golf League team. It was a privilege to watch so many talented players represent the club last season. We have a core of stalwart players and some highly talented young players, and I’m sure they will do the club proud this year as we look to repeat the success of 2016. Captain’s Day on August 26 is sure to be a personal highlight of the year and I’m looking forward to welcoming my family, friends and fellow members to what is sure to be a fantastic day. I hope you enjoy the Close House experience, on and off the golf course, and I look forward to seeing you here throughout what is sure to be a memorable year.
SAVE THE DATE
Captain’s Day August 26
www.closehouse.com 13
MASTERS MOMENT Close House attached tour professional and tournament host Lee Westwood looks ahead to the British Masters at Close House Sept 28-Oct 1
W
hen September 28 arrives and the world’s best golfers take to the Colt Course at Close House for the 2017 British Masters, Lee Westwood will be centre stage as tournament host. Having spent two decades in the golfing spotlight, rising to world number one, European number one and having a place among the most decorated Ryder Cup players in history, Lee is accustomed to the attention - though he admits the week will be a different experience. “The guys who’ve hosted tournaments have said it’s tough to host and play well, so I hope to buck that trend,” says Lee when we catch up during his preparations for The Masters in Augusta. “The Colt Course looks good, the tweaks we’ve made should test the players and everything is falling into place really well. The team at Close House is putting a huge effort into making sure everything is perfect. Between them, the Tour and Sky Sports it’s going to be a fantastic tournament. “The event will be a great showcase for the North East and I know the players who are already confirmed are looking forward to coming up to Newcastle, sampling the famous hospitality and playing the golf course.”
14 www.closehouse.com
As well as hosting the tournament Lee has played a big part in the tweaks being made to the Colt Course to test the best players in the world, alongside golf course and estates manager Brian Clark and architect Scott Macpherson. “We’ve made a few tweaks, added some length where it was needed and changed some bunkers. We’ll also see the rough brought in this summer, which I’m sure the members will be cursing me for come September.” Lee admits the changes should give him an advantage over the members on his regular visits, and that this year’s practice is sure to be useful as he looks to improve on his third place finish at The Grove in 2016. As part of this year’s tournament, the Junior Masters will see qualifiers from seven events across the North of England compete on the Filly Course on the Tuesday of British Masters week - with the winner receiving the trophy from Lee and joining the professionals in Wednesday’s pro am and. “I was keen to get the juniors involved in the tournament and was inspired by something similar at last year’s Italian Open,” says Lee. “There was a big group of kids on the putting green who were playing a tournament on the course next door and to see the juniors
CLOSE HOUSE | Lee Westwood
mixing with the professionals and getting some tips was really inspiring. “To get the kids involved and let them meet their heroes will be a great memory for them, and they will get a card in their hands and put a score down in a big event as well. “We need to inspire kids to become the next Lee Westwood or Danny Willett, and give them more opportunities to play golf.” As well as being attached tour professional, Lee now has a home in Newcastle and is enjoying life in the North East as he concentrates on playing the European Tour and spending time with his son Sam and daughter Poppy. “I love living in Newcastle, everyone is really friendly and I have a lot of friends in the North East. Newcastle is a great city and I enjoy my time here a lot. “Close House is also a big part of my life now; I’ve put down roots in Newcastle and I plan to stay here. “The kids are in great form right now. I played in the pro am at Fancourt in South Africa with Sam at the start of the year. We
“The team at Close House is putting a huge effort into making sure everything is perfect. Between them, the Tour and Sky Sports it’s going to be a fantastic tournament” finished fourth in the team event and had a great week. “Helen [Storey, Lee’s partner] caddied for me in Abu Dhabi as well, with Billy being unavailable. That was a good experience, though it’s a while since I’ve done my own yardages. It was a little bit different without www.closehouse.com 15
CLOSE HOUSE | Lee Westwood
IN THE BAG Driver PING G LS 10.5° with Aldila XTORSION Black 60-X shaft Fairway PING G 14.5° with Aldila RIP Phenom 70-X shaft
Billy Foster with Lee in Abu Dhabi in January 2017
Billy but Helen settled right into caddying and did a great job.” Lee is now concentrating his time on the European Tour and has made a consistent start to the year following a 13th place finish in last season’s Race to Dubai. “I played alright last season, with a good finish in the Race to Dubai and a move up the World Rankings. It was a little bit disappointing to go without a win but I played some good golf. I didn’t miss too many cuts, had plenty of top 10s and came close again at Augusta.” This year Lee has started well with an eighth place finish in Abu Dhabi followed by being in contention at the World Golf Championship in Mexico before slipping back through the field on Sunday. “I’m hitting the ball well, my game feels sharp and I’m looking forward to the rest the season,” he adds. With Augusta firmly on his mind when we meet, Lee has an exciting year of major championships – including an Open Championship at Royal Birkdale. 16 www.closehouse.com
“The US Open at Erin Hills sounds like it’s going to be tricky and one of the highlights of the year. “I’ve played Royal Birkdale a lot over the years and it’s probably the best test on the Open rota. It’s one of my favourite links course and I’m looking forward to it. I always get great support at the Open and this year will be the closest to where I’m from so hopefully there’ll be some good crowds. The atmosphere is very special at the Open, and there’s nothing like playing in front of home galleries.” Following the majors, the British Masters is sure to be the highlight of Lee’s six-year association with Close House, which began with opening the Colt Course in 2011 and has seen him become a huge part of Close House’s history. “To have the golfing spotlight on Close House will be the highlight of my year. I want to do a good job that week as host, and I hope everyone enjoys what is going to be a special occasion for us, the team and the North East.”
Hybrid PING G 19° with Aldila Tour Green 85H-X shaft Irons PING i200 4-PW with JZ-Stiff shafts Wedges PING i200 UW 50° & 53° and PING Glide 2.0 60° with JZ-Stiff shafts Putter PING Vault Bergen Ball Titleist Pro V1
british masters of interior design
@interiordesire
/interiordesire
Hexham 1-3 Beaumont St. 01434 602617 Alnwick 39-41 Fenkle St. 01665 602040 Carlisle Victoria Viaduct. 01228 524231 New England Interiors (part of the Dickinsons Group) 1-3 Causey St. Gosforth. 01912 844884 Coming soon brand new online store www.dickinsonsfurnishers.com
07086-DA-Close House FP Ad.indd 1
03/04/2017 13:43
THE LEE WESTWOOD COLT COURSE Par 70, 6,951 yards
T
he British Masters will be played over the Colt Course at Close House Sept 28-Oct 1, with the Top 100 Course having been tweaked and added to in the last 18 months to enhance the test for the best players in the world. A number of holes have been altered following the 2015 PGA Seniors Championship and work has been overseen by Lee Westwood, designer Scott Macpherson and golf course and estates manager Brian Clark. For the event, the playing order will also be changed with players beginning at the fifth tee as the members play it - creating a challenging opening stretch and a dramatic finish with a 200-yard par three. Designed by Macpherson and officially opened in 2011, the Colt Course examines every aspect of a player’s game and demands accuracy and control. Here’s our guide to what the best players in the world will face.
18 www.closehouse.com
CLOSE HOUSE | Colt Course
“The British Masters will see players start at the fifth tee as the members play the course - creating an incredibly tough finish” JONATHAN LUPTON CLOSE HOUSE MANAGING DIRECTOR
www.closehouse.com 19
HOLE 4, PAR 4, 477 YARDS There are options at the fourth as the fairway is split in the centre. The second shot is difficult to get close as the green is protected by three bunkers, while a swale runs through the green. HOLE 5, PAR 3, 206 YARDS The fifth is one of the most difficult holes on the course, played to a green which is narrow from front to back. A variety of tees will be used for the event, creating birdies and bogeys depending on the combination of tee and pin positions. HOLE 6, PAR 5, 497 YARDS Played up the hill away from the PGA Academy, you must avoid the bunker to the left of the fairway at the sixth. The green can be tough to find as the fairway features a number of different contours.
Fifth hole on the Colt Course
HOLE 1, PAR 4, 398 YARDS Now just under 400 yards, the first is played straight uphill with three bunkers protecting the fairway. The amphitheatre-like green is set into a hill and has two main sections. Distance control is key and made tougher by how much the second shot plays uphill. HOLE 2, PAR 4, 445 YARDS The second plays downhill and is a great hole for players and spectators. A new tee box adds 23 yards and there is more fairway over the wall than you think. Watch out for the deep bunker at the front right corner of the green. HOLE 3, PAR 4, 483 YARDS A simple par five for the members, the third will become a demanding par four of more than 480 yards for the British Masters. You have to plot your route up the hill with cross-bunkers scattered across the fairway. Generally left is best, but watch out for the bunkers short of the green.
20 www.closehouse.com
HOLE 7, PAR 4, 399 YARDS At the top of the course, the tee shot at the seventh is very tight. The best approach is from around 140 yards and the right side of the green remains a no-go area. You’ll find some of the best views on the course from the green. HOLE 8, PAR 3, 198 YARDS Played slightly uphill, the green at the par three eighth has been extended to the left to offer new pin positions. In a crosswind, this hole can be particularly tough. HOLE 9, PAR 4, 462 YARDS Three large bunkers to the right of the fairway and two more at the front and right of the green defend a good birdie chance at the ninth. A fourth fairway bunker has been removed to increase the landing area should you play an iron from the tee. When the flag is front right, play right. Otherwise, left is best. Expect a lot of excitement here should the tee be moved up to create a drivable par four. HOLE 10, PAR 3, 175 YARDS
CLOSE HOUSE | Colt Course
Another strong par three, the 10th is one of the most picturesque holes on the Colt Course. The shortest hole on the course, a new bunker has been added and the green has been extended to create a front right pin position. HOLE 11, PAR 4, 373 YARDS Starting behind a lake, the tee shot at the 11th is one of the hardest on the course. Accuracy is key - aim at the tallest trees in the distance with a slight draw to find the left side of the fairway. Avoid the left of the green - there is more room over the green than you think. Par is a good score here.
“The players will face a difficult test on the Colt Course and they will really have to do their homework; it can be unsettling even for the professionals� LEE WESTWOOD, CLOSE HOUSE ATTACHED PROFESSIONAL
HOLE 12, PAR 4, 457 YARDS A dog-leg left through a corridor of trees, the key to the 12th is to get around the corner from the tee. You can use the slopes left of the green to run the ball in here - though avoid the right side as a large bunker protects the length of the green. Approaches here must be precise to hold a tricky putting surface. HOLE 13, PAR 5, 540 YARDS A very good birdie chance, a new tee box has been added to the 13th adding 15 yards. A wide fairway slopes right to left and the wind is often back into you. There is a copse of oak trees to avoid with the second shot though
Above: The 10th on the Colt Course Below: The 14th on the Colt Course
the slopes in front of the green will help kick a ball onto the putting surface. At the green, the danger is over the back and left - a fun hole and one where you will see birdies. HOLE 14, PAR 4, 443 YARDS A new tee box stretches the 14th to more than 450 yards and there is more trouble than just the fairway bunker to the left of the fairway. A ha-ha wall runs down the right side, which is the best side to approach the green from. The green is well guarded with a bunker and ha-ha wall at the front as well as the old Ice Lake around the right side and stretching across its front edge. www.closehouse.com 21
The all-new Audi Q5 From only £399 per month, 6.2% APR Representative*
Solutions Personal Contract Plan* representative example from Audi Financial Services based on 10,000 miles per annum for the Audi Q5 2.0TDI quattro S line S-tronic Cash Price Less: Customer deposit Balance of cash price/amount of credit
Add Charges Balance Balance payable by 36 monthly rentals of Followed by a final rental of Acceptance fee payable with first rental Purchase fee payable with final rental
Tyneside Audi NE28 9NT 0191 357 0907
£5,123.82 £37,794.80 £399.00 £23,829.80 £0.00 £10.00 36 months
Total Amount Payable
£45,678.82
Total monthly payment
NE4 7LA 0191 639 2382
£7,874.02 £32,670.98
Duration of agreement
Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
Newcastle Audi
£40,545.00
6.2%
£399.00
Wearside Audi SR5 1AT 0191 639 1952
www.lookers.co.uk/audi Official fuel consumption figures for the all-new Audi Q5 range in mpg (l/100km) from: Urban 26.2 (10.8) – 52.3 (5.4), Extra Urban 41.5 (6.8) – 58.9 (4.8), Combined 34.0 (8.3) – 56.5 (5.0). CO2 emissions: 195 – 132g/km. Fuel consumption and CO2 figures are obtained under standardised EU test conditions (Directive 93/116/EEC). This allows a direct comparison between different manufacturer models but may not represent the actual fuel consumption achieved in ‘real world’ driving conditions. Image shown for illustration purposes only. Audi Q5 Sport model shows Adaptive Cruise Control Plus £750 RRP, Audi Pre Sense Basic £250 RRP, Matrix LED Headlights £1,750 RRP, Parking Assistance Pack £900 RRP, Electrically Adjustable Mirrors £225 RRP and Technology Pack £1,100 RRP. Choice of wheels and other options may affect fuel consumption, BIK and emissions data (which may also affect the amount of Vehicle Excise Duty payable and therefore the ROTR price). More information is available on the Audi website at www.audi.co.uk and at www.dft.gov.uk/vca. *At the end of the agreement there are three options: i) own the vehicle: pay the optional final payment; ii) return the vehicle: subject to fair wear and tear, charges may apply; or iii) replace: part exchange the vehicle. Available on Solutions Personal Contract Plan. 18s and over. Subject to availability. Finance subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. Based on 10,000 miles per annum, 9.6p per mile excess mileage charges apply (incl. VAT). Offer available when ordered by 30 June 2017 from participating Centres. Offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer and may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Accurate at time of publication [April 2017]. Freepost Audi Financial Services. We can introduce you to a limited number of lenders to assist with your purchase, who may pay us for introducing you to them.
AUDI0121 Audi Q5 Close House Magazine v2.indd 1
03/04/2017 17:27
CLOSE HOUSE | Colt Course
HOLE 15, PAR 4, 435 YARDS The opening hole as the members play the course, the best approach to the 15th is from the left side of the fairway, where you will get an unobstructed view of the putting surface. However, a new tee adds 45 yards and makes finding the correct position much more difficult. HOLE 16, PAR 4, 392 YARDS The 16th plays uphill and the landing area has been reduced by 50% with the addition of two new bunkers. The green here is one of the most undulating on the course and has been extended to offer a further demanding pin position. HOLE 17, PAR 4, 350 YARDS The 17th is a great risk and reward hole. Played downwind, some players may take on the green from the repositioned tee box further up the hill towards High Close House, allowing better views
“This golf course aims to produce the most exciting range of thrills for every level of golfer, and it requires your utmost attention” SCOTT MACPHERSON, COLT COURSE ARCHITECT
Above: The 17th on the Colt Course
and meaning players must draw the ball into the sloping fairway. The two-tiered green affords breathtaking views across the Tyne Valley. HOLE 18, PAR 3, 221 YARDS The toughest, and longest, of the par threes, the wind often blows across the 18th and it plays half a club longer than its yardage. You must avoid the bunkers at the front of the green, while the left side is safest. This will be an amphitheatre during the event with hospitality and grandstands surrounding the hole to produce an electric atmosphere.
The 18th on the Colt Course www.closehouse.com 23
24 www.closehouse.com
www.closehouse.com 25
“MY FIRST MEMORY IS THINKING WHAT THE HELL HAVE I DONE” Twelve years since he arrived at Close House, Graham Wylie looks back at the incredible journey from buying a Northumberland golf course and rundown house to hosting the 2017 British Masters
D
riving through the gates of Close House, winding your way through tall trees and seeing the golf course and spectacular views unravel before you, it’s hard to think none of this existed just 12 years ago. For Graham Wylie, the man who arrived here with the vision for a world-class golf resort for the North East of England, the journey has been a fascinating one. “My first memory is thinking ‘what the hell have I done’ as I was handed the keys,” admits Graham as we walk through No.19 and take in the view as the sun rises over the Filly Course and Tyne Valley. The house, now Graham’s family home, was rundown. What is now No.19 was a changing block, and the golf course had football and rugby pitches across its fairways. First came improvements to the Filly Course and moving the sports pitches, and Graham admits the Close House journey unfolded before him rather than being planned in detail. “I knew I wanted to attract people here and make a viable business and that we didn’t have that with just the Filly Course,” says Graham. The Colt Course, then 200 acres of farmland
26 www.closehouse.com
above the Filly Course, was laid out by Scott Macpherson and constructed from 2007-2011, with No.19 replacing the changing rooms. “Those developments weren’t planned when we came here - but unfolded very quickly as the vision for Close House became clearer,” admits Graham. “Each of those steps happened for a reason. It’s a fascinating journey with hindsight but we would have never said it could happen.” Lee Westwood was invited to open the Colt Course in 2011, an association which also grew naturally and has seen Lee become an ambassador for Close House, and a close friend. “Lee is incredibly professional, as well as friendly and approachable, and his passion for Close House and the North East is fantastic.” The Close House journey, though unpredictable, has been remarkable. Since opening in 2011, the Colt Course has become one of the UK’s Top 100 courses, hosted EuroPro Tour events and the 2015 ISPS Handa PGA Seniors Championship, while the club has become the go-to venue for corporate golf and events in the North of England. “We’ve continued to develop since we arrived in 2004. We could have never foreseen the success we’ve achieved at such an early point
CLOSE HOUSE | The Wylie way
“We could have never foreseen the success we’ve achieved at such an early point in our history”
in our history, and we have had to adapt to each opportunity as it’s come our way. “Those opportunities come along in every business and you can only grasp some of them - the skill is in grasping the ones which make you better.” That success, and Graham’s endless energy in creating a golfing experience which stands up to the best in the world, attracted the attention of the British Masters. “Hosting the British Masters is a huge coup, for Close House and the North East,” says Graham, a lifelong champion of the North East and its place on the international stage.
“You have to give a lot of the thanks for securing the event to Lee Westwood and Chubby Chandler [the man behind International Sports Management]. When the Tour and Sky Sports announced the return of the British Masters three years ago, and that Lee would be an ambassador, he was adamant the event would come here.” Following successful events at Woburn in 2015 and The Grove in 2016, it then came Lee’s turn to host the event, but securing a visit to the North East was not straightforward. “The European Tour was nervous about attracting big crowds in the North East.” www.closehouse.com 27
CLOSE HOUSE | The Wylie way
for Graham, now 57, and the next chapter of the Close House story? “It’s remarkable, but we’re still in the early days,” he says with a broad smile. We’re building a reputation and learning every month. “I want Close House to inspire people to play golf, particularly youngsters, through everything we do here.” Having moved into Close House in January 2016, Graham, his wife Andrea and their daughters Keira and Zara are very much at home. “It already feels like we’ve been here forever. It’s the perfect mix of the country and being
“But if we can have 50,000 turn up to watch Samoa play Tonga at St James’ Park during the Rugby World Cup, I don’t think we have a problem. “We have also had to invest in the golf course and estate, which will all be worth it come the opening tee shot.” With the major construction work complete, and the build-up well underway, Graham is confident that the event will be one to remember. “I spend 3-4 hours of every day talking about the British Masters and the buzz is building across the North East. “I think fans will flock here for one of the golfing highlights of the year. We have to show the appetite is there for golf at this level in the region and I hope that it will open up the opportunity for more events here in the future. “I’d like to look back in 10 years and see this held up as one of the most successful sporting events ever in the North East.” Once the champion lifts the trophy on Sunday, the grandstands come down and members return to the course for the monthly medal – what then
close to the city. The girls love it here; they enjoy spending time in No.19 and driving their little cars down over the golf course and through the woods. The view from our bedroom window is brilliant out over the Filly Course and to the valley beyond It’s a lovely place to live.” Away from business, Graham is looking forward to playing more golf. “I’m still a bad 23 handicapper, 12 years after buying a golf club. I need to get this year out the way then I’ll concentrate on my golf. I tend to have six good holes, six poor ones and six really bad ones – though I never know when they’re going to be.” Despite taking a step back from the running of IT firm TSG, Graham is busy with Close House, fitness business Speedflex and heading up The Graham Wylie Foundation, which he launched in 2016. “We’ve got some big events coming up this year with the Foundation,” says Graham, as equally enthusiastic about each part of his life. “We want to help educate and inspire the children of the North East to be successful starting with our first project - the Nordoff Robins Music Centre in Jesmond.” It looks like there is no sign of slowing down for Graham and Close House, and no end to his infectious enthusiasm. “We’ll do what we always have; see what comes our way and adapt to the opportunities. I don’t stand still for very long.”
“I think fans will flock here for one of the golfing highlights of the year”
28 www.closehouse.com
AWARD WINNING HAIRDRESSING
BE GORGEOUS Darlington 01325 468 994
Gosforth 0191 217 0217
Jesmond 0191 281 6714
Ponteland 01661 821 004
Wynyard 01740 644 690
www.hookerandyoung.co.uk Facebook/hooker&young Twitter @hookerandyoung
IT ALL ADDS UP Zara Lane on why being part of Close House adds up for her
W
hen it comes to what makes Close House special, it’s all about the people for Zara Lane. “The welcoming atmosphere, and all the really nice people I’ve met here are the key for me. I always look forward to playing golf here and couldn’t imagine being part of another club.” Growing up with horses and spending her free time riding and eventing, Zara picked up golf seven years ago and is really enjoying it. “I looked at quite a few clubs when I decided to take up membership and Close
“I always look forward to playing golf here and couldn’t imagine being part of any other club” House was the obvious choice. I love both courses, it’s really easy to get to from home in Gosforth, and I found the modern take on golf really refreshing. “I work and travel, so having full access to the courses and competitions when I wanted to play was really important.” 30 www.closehouse.com
Currently playing off a handicap of 24, Zara would love to get her handicap down into the teens, though won’t hold her breath this year with the Colt Course being prepared for the British Masters. “I’ve had some lessons with Jonathan Lupton and Matthew Naylor and I need to invest in some more – there’s no excuse for not improving with everything we have here. “I get a lot of invites to play with business contacts, and I play a bit in the Borders with my parents and overseas,” she adds. A chartered accountant, Zara is a private equity investor based in Newcastle with Lloyds Development Capital. With the help of a £400m annual fund, she supports management teams and shareholders looking to grow their business. “It’s fantastic to help businesses grow - its great to be a part of their success. My job can be quite full-on so to head outdoors, with work or to relax, is really important. “Golf fits in with spending time with a lot of the people I work with and it’s a great way to get to know people out of the office.” In her free time Zara will often be at Close House, playing golf socially and relaxing with her partner in No.19 and out on the course. “I’ll be here with work for the British Masters and I can’t wait to have my first experience of tournament golf. I’m looking forward to being here and seeing the best players in the world playing the course - it’ll be quite different to the way we play it.” With so much coming up on and off the golf course, and some work to do if she is going to improve her handicap, it seems spending time at Close House really does add up for Zara.
CLOSE HOUSE | On course
www.closehouse.com 31
BE PART OF IT Enjoy the Close House experience 365 days a year
M
embership of Close House is a musthave golfing experience. From the moment your drive through the gates and leave the rest of the world behind you, through to relaxing in No.19 after a day on the golf course, there is something very special about the Close House experience. Set in the stunning Tyne Valley landscape, minutes from Newcastle, the Colt and Filly courses are beautifully presented year-round and are complemented by the highest standards of service at the PGA Academy and in No.19. Whether you are arriving for a 7.30am tee time, heading out for nine holes in the evening, practising ahead of a big golf day or enjoying dinner with family or friends, expect a warm welcome and a relaxed atmosphere. Close House members enjoy full access to the Colt Course, one of the UK & Ireland’s Top 100 courses, together with the Filly Course as well as the Yearling par three course, PGA Academy and No.19. Full members also have access to a full calendar of exclusive events, discounts on Close House facilities and will receive complimentary tickets to the British Masters. Join the club and enjoy the Close House experience.
32 www.closehouse.com
CLOSE HOUSE | Join the club
“We are passionate about providing the best possible golfing experience for our members” GRAHAM WYLIE, CLOSE HOUSE OWNER
MEMBERSHIP PACKAGES Full £2,100 or £175pm Spouse £1,650 or £137.50pm Country from £720 or £60pm Intermediate (aged 18-25) £840 or £70pm Junior (under 18) £240 or £20pm PGA Academy Adult £180 or £15 pm PGA Academy Junior £120 or £10pm Includes access to practice facilities, Yearling Course, a round on the Filly Course, a golf lesson with a PGA professional, and 10% off across all facilities PGA Academy Premium £720 or £60pm As above, plus full use of the Filly Course Mon-Fri, and weekends after 2pm Pro-rata membership rates are available for new members. All prices include VAT.
THE PERKS Close House members enjoy a range of benefits – including discounted green fees at top resorts around the world: Woburn Golf and Country Club; The Duke’s, St Andrews; Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club; Emirates Golf Club, Dubai and the PGA Catalunya Resort, Spain. Members also have access to two Close House properties - in the Lake District and Mallorca. To find out more about membership, contact Craig Wright, tel 01661 85 22 55, email craig.wright@closehouse.co.uk or visit www.closehouse.com www.closehouse.com 33
PUT OUR SERVICE TO THE TEST No.19 at Close House – the ultimate clubhouse experience
W
hen it comes to places to relax, whether you’ve had a day on the golf course, a tense business meeting or a hectic week at home, there is nowhere better to head to than No.19 at Close House. A modern take on the golf club experience, No.19 lives up to the exceptionally high standards set by the Colt and Filly courses whether you’re visiting for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner or drinks. The buzzing atmosphere in the evening is perfect for drinks and food with family and friends, the sundrenched bar is ideal for a breakfast meeting and the Westwood Suite is fit for the finest events and dinners. Every taste is catered for by executive head chef Craig Harvey, while food & beverage manager Victor Castro-Quiroga and his team pride themselves on making the No.19 experience one to remember for every guest. Served against a stunning backdrop of the Tyne Valley, the menu in No.19 is updated daily with local produce; beef, lamb and game from Northumberland, fish from the Tyne and North Sea and fresh herbs picked minutes from the kitchen door. As well as essentials such as the club
34 www.closehouse.com
burger and fish and chips, you will find beautifully crafted specials, light tapas dishes and stunning afternoon teas on the menu. The Westwood Suite is available for private hire and events and caters for up to 140 guests, while the British Masters Suite is now available for meetings, providing privacy while being surrounded by golfing memorabilia. No.19 is open all day for members and guests to enjoy the experience.
CLOSE HOUSE | No.19
Spring has sprung: A selection of dishes from the spring 2017 menu Left: No.19 Scotch egg Right: Pork three ways Far right: Pot-roasted chicken breast with mushroom and asparagus risotto
www.closehouse.com 35
CLOSE HOUSE | No.19 More highlights from the spring 2017 menu Top: Salt and chilli pepper chicken Middle: North Shields beer-battered haddock with mushy peas and triplecooked chips Bottom: Blackcurrant cheesecake with liquorice and blackerry sorbet
YES, CHEF with executive head chef Craig Harvey As the golfers head back out onto the courses for the start of the season, we also savour the new season - lighter, brighter days and the return of fresh, colourful dishes and ingredients. The menu at Close House is constantly changing as the weather improves, temperatures rise and some of the finest ingredients are available on our doorstep. A little more than two years into being back at Close House as executive head chef, we haven’t stopped developing No.19. We’ve had a fantastic winter with some fabulous dishes including lots of local game and we’ve now brought back afternoon tea and are putting on what I hope is a memorable experience. I’m incredibly passionate about local food and to offer the best of Northumberland in such a fantastic setting is a great privilege. I’m looking forward to seeing that offering develop further this summer with some of the ideas the guys in the kitchen have put forward. This September we’ll host the biggest event in our history and it’s sure to be a great experience for my whole team and everyone at Close House; let’s hope my first child can wait until it’s all done and dusted or I may have to catch up with it on the TV! 36 www.closehouse.com
LET US HELP YOU TO MAKE YOUR COOKER THE HEART OF YOUR HOME...
Since 1931, our family business (est 1888) has supplied and installed AGA Cookers in homes throughout the North East and North Yorkshire. We are also experts in Range Cooker appliances and our unbiased advice will allow you to make the right choice for your kitchen design and budget. Our magniďŹ cent Showroom has a dedicated display with working models and demonstration area. We have collections of high quality Range Cookers from Lacanche, Steel, Falcon, Mercury on display and new for 2017- KitchenAid Major Appliances.
Visit our Showroom today 1 Stirling Court, Eleventh Avenue North,Team Valley, Gateshead, NE11 0JF
www.wdix.co.uk • 0191 482 0033
ALL SUMMER LONG Make the most of the season with golf fashion from PING and jewellery from Berry’s Golf apparel has never been more stylish, taking you from course to clubhouse seamlessly and in style. PING offers up performance fabrics and cuts for men and women, with subtle branding, clean colour stories and a tailored fit. Specialist fabrics protect against the elements to deliver enhanced comfort in all playing conditions, while the women’s collection remains distinctly feminine via soft-touch fabrics and a carefully selected colour palette. The collections are beautifully set off by the finest accessories, as the collection on these pages from Berry’s, Newcastle, proves.
Amr wears: IWC Big Pilot watch, £10,950 J Lindeberg Lymann Tour Pullover in burgundy, £89.95 J Lindeberg Tour Tech Reg TX Jersey Polo, £74.95 PING Lennox trousers in mineral, £70 ECCO Men’s Golf Biom shoes in concrete/royal, £195 Bow tie, model’s own Lauren wears: Cartier Santos 200 watch, £5,050 PING Bonnie sweater in surf blue, £70 PING Noa polo, £45 PING Rene trouser in navy, £70 Close House leather golf glove, £14.95 Ecco Women’s Classic Golf Hybrid shoes in white, £160
38 www.closehouse.com
CLOSE HOUSE | Look good, play good
www.closehouse.com 39
Amr wears: IWC 18ct Rose Gold Portofino Chronograph watch, £12,250 Close House cap, £12.95 PING Hudson top navy/white, £65 PING Brett blue lagoon marl polo, £60 PING Franklyn navy trousers, £60 ECCO Men’s Golf Biom shoes in concrete/royal, £195
40 www.closehouse.com
CLOSE HOUSE | Look good, play good
Lauren wears: Diamond Stud earrings, £39,995 Diamond bracelet, £16,995 Close House cap, £12.95 PING Haiden lilac chiffon polo, £55 PING Beatrix shorts in white multi, £60 PING Spirit belt in white, £40
Below Amr wears: Patek Philippe 18ct Rose Gold Calatrava watch, £25,190 PING Rhyf blue lagoon polo, £55 Close House glove, £14.95 PING Franklyn trouser navy, £60 Ecco Men’s Golf Biom shoes in concrete/royal, £195
Below Lauren wears: Close House leather golf glove, £14.95 PING Lara gilet, £80 PING Allura polo, £35 PING Rene trouser in cherry red, £70 ECCO Women’s Classic Golf Hybrid shoes in white, £160 Below Amr wears: Panerraie Luminor watch, £7,650 PING Remus jacket in asphalt, £80 Close House leather golf glove, £14.95 PING Cortes polo in white/rich red multi, £50 PING Lennox trouser in ash, £70 Ecco Men’s Golf Biom shoes in concrete/royal, £195
www.closehouse.com 41
CLOSE HOUSE | Look good, play good
Above: Cartier Tank Francaise steel and gold watch, £4,450 IWC 18ct rose gold Portofino Chronograph watch, £12,250 Patek Philippe 18ct white gold Annual Calendar watch, £30,050 Jaeger-le Coultre Reverso Duetto watch, £9,000 Top left: Bvlgari 18ct rose gold design legend ring, £1,860 Bvlgari 18ct white gold design Legend ring, £1,750 Bvlgari B Zero 1 bangle, £4,810 Top right: Patek Philippe Annual Calendar 18ct White Golf watch, £34,820 Bottom left: Princess cut diamond single stone ring with diamond shoulders £16,695
Car: MINI Cooper S All4 Countryman from Lloyd Newcaslte BMW & MINI, www.lloydnewcastlemini.co.uk Photography: Kevin Gibson, www.kgphotography.co.uk Models: Amr Abkhaz and Lauren Marshall, www.tyneteesmodels.co.uk Hair & makeup: The Arch, Michelle Fowler Hairdressing, www.thearchnewcastle.co.uk 42 www.closehouse.com
Bottom right: Single stone diamond ring halo bezel setting with pink argyle diamonds, £60,495
CLOSE HOUSE | Style
CLOSE HOUSE STYLE The finest on-course accessories #2
#3
#1
#7
#6
#4 #8
#5
#1 Close House-branded Pro V1 golf balls (3 pack) £11.95 #2 Close House-branded TaylorMade golf glove £14.95 #3 Close House belt £49.95 #4 Close House gift box set £24.95 #5 Close House pitch mark repairer £2 #6 Close House umbrella £24.95 #7 Close House Vegas ball marker £9.95 #8 Close House tri-fold towel £9.95 www.closehouse.com 45
THE LEE WESTWOOD FILLY COURSE Par 70, 6,034 yards
T
he Filly Course is the perfect partner to the Colt Course, challenging from the back tees while offering many rewards for tactical play. Redesigned in 2013 by the same team which constructed the Colt Course, the Filly is laid out in two loops of nine at the foot of the valley, with both returning to the No.19 clubhouse, making it ideal for just a few holes. From those playing with family to players testing their skills on a layout with an international reputation, the Filly Course
46 www.closehouse.com
offers a strategic test from the tee with penal fairway bunkering and hazards matched with forgiving landing areas and large, undulating greens - laying up is often the best approach to secure pars here. The course complements the challenging Colt Course perfectly, providing more room from the tee while challenging players of all abilities. It also makes great use of its location, primarily in the foot of the Tyne Valley though you’ll also find some of the best views at the top of the course around the turn.
CLOSE HOUSE | Filly Course
LEE WESTWOOD’S FILLY HIGHLIGHTS THE OPENER HOLE 1, 388 YARDS, PAR FOUR A short par four, the first is an opportunity to get your round off to a flying start. A long iron or three wood just short of the fairway bunker will give the best angle to approach the green – or drive up and over the bunker right of the fairway to leave a short pitch. THE STROKE INDEX ONE HOLE 5, 388 YARDS, PAR FOUR The fifth presents a daunting tee shot with bunkers looming right from the tee, though a generous fairway awaits for those laying up. Water lurks left and short of the green and will gather any approaches which fail to reach the putting surface. Deep bunkers and mounding protect the right of the green. THE SIGNATURE HOLE HOLE 8, 295 YARDS, PAR FOUR A short par four, the eighth tee offers one of the best views from the Close House estate, set high in the trees looking across the Tyne Valley. A lake short of the green is closer than you think when the ground is firm, and a confident pitch is required from a downhill lie over the hazard to a large green. THE LAST HOLE 18, 363 YARDS, PAR FOUR The cross bunkers present a tough decision when you reach the 18th tee; lay-up short with a fairway wood and leave a trickier approach over the ha-ha wall or take driver and risk finding the sand. The bunkers surrounding the green, and the ha-ha wall and hazard short of the putting surface, make this a demanding finish. The approach plays a club longer here with the green further beyond the wall than you think. www.closehouse.com 47
GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS Lee Hartley, chief executive of Fairstone, explains why Close House is good for business – on and off the golf course
W
hen it comes to doing business in the North East, you seem to either be at Close House or talking about it,” says Lee Hartley as we sit down to breakfast at No 19. That business landscape and Lee’s passion for golf led to Fairstone - the UK’s largest chartered financial planning firm which oversees £7bn of client assets - becoming a corporate partner of Close House; an association which continues to flourish. “We enjoyed playing events here so much that it was the obvious place to take up membership,” says Lee. “We were looking for a way to enhance what we do for our clients and partners, and Close House ticked all the boxes. It’s been one of the best decisions we’ve made.” Close House has become a go-to venue for Fairstone, with contacts from around the UK visiting the club to play the golf courses as well as it being the venue of choice for meetings, lunches and time out of the office with colleagues. “Our association here is primarily about business. Where else are you going to get to
48 www.closehouse.com
spend four hours with somebody, up close and personal, and see their character in all its facets? When you’re about to invest potentially substantial sums into an acquisition, it’s important to understand the moral fibre of the people you’re about to go into business with, golf is a great way to do that.” Fairstone’s association with golf around the UK includes supporting events like the Home Internationals matches, and Lee travels to many of the country’s oldest and finest clubs for business and social golf. For him, there’s no better place for golf and business than Close House. “What we do is about relationships and having somewhere like No.19 to relax, particularly if you have a mix of golfers and non-golfers, is ideal. There are no stuffy rules, you can have a relaxed chat or a serious business discussion – it just works. It’s a totally modern approach to golf which I wish more clubs would aim to achieve,” says Lee. An 18-handicapper, Lee visits at least once a week, rain or shine, from his home in Cleadon, South Tyneside. “My game is definitely more about power than finesse,” he admits. “I can string some good rounds together but I also have a tendency to blow up like the Hindenburg. Team stablefords and Texas scrambles are my games!” As well as looking forward to the British Masters, Lee has one eye on the Tuesday after the tournament, when Fairstone will host its national golf day on the Colt Course. “We’re going to put average golfers through purgatory from the back tees,” he laughs. “I can’t wait to be here and be part of the experience.” With thoughts turning to October, it’s time for a second meeting of the morning in No.19 before getting nine holes in this afternoon, which goes to prove, there really is nowhere better for business and golf.
CLOSE HOUSE | The business of golf
“We were looking for a way to enhance what we do for our clients and partners, and Close House ticked all the boxes” www.closehouse.com 49
CLOSE HOUSE | The business of golf
BUSINESS MATTERS There’s no better place than the golf course to do business – and Close House is proving to be the perfect partner
W
hen it comes to business in the North East, Close House is the place to be, whether you’re inviting guests to the region, showcasing the facilities to clients or spending valuable time away from the office with colleagues. Just 12 miles from the centre of Newcastle, Close House is a great location for meeting local, national and international clients on and off the course. ‘More deals are done on the golf course than in the boardroom’ couldn’t be more true than here, where more than 40 of the
UK’s biggest companies come together as corporate and associate partners - with hundreds more hosting golf days, events, dinners and meetings here. Partnerships here reach thousands of people around the UK and further afield – all beginning here through meetings, monthly partners’ breakfasts and mornings on the golf course, and through events on and off the golf course. To find out more about corporate and associate membership, contact the golf membership team, tel 01661 85 22 55, email craig.wright@closehouse.co.uk
CLOSE HOUSE CORPORATE PARTNERS
www.closehouse.com 51
FAMILY VALUES For Martin and Cameron Paul, a visit to Close House is a chance to catch up, relax and enjoy golf as father and son
F
ather and son Martin and Cameron Paul can be found together at Close House on weeknight evenings and most weekends, either on the golf course or relaxing in No.19, where we caught up with them following an evening game. HOW MUCH GOLF DO YOU GET TO PLAY? Martin: “I play a bit more than Cameron at the minute with his rugby commitments, but we’ll play together in the summer, and we really enjoyed the nine-hole Texas scramble events last year.” Cameron: “I’d love to play even more golf. It’s great to spend time here with my dad, catching up and doing something we both really enjoy.” HOW DID YOU GET INTO GOLF? Cameron: “With my dad when I was nine. He signed me up for some lessons with Sally Hinton and I was hooked right away.” Martin: “I played a bit in my 20s but it wasn’t really organised. My siblings bought me a custom fit voucher here for my 40th birthday six years ago and I got a series of lessons with Jonathan Lupton. We clicked, and it grew from there.”
54 www.closehouse.com
“We always compare courses back to Close House - and it always comes out on top” CAMERON PAUL
WHAT DID YOU THINK THE FIRST TIME YOU CAME HERE? Martin: “That the golf courses were exceptional, I was stunned when I played the Colt Course.” Cameron: “We always compare courses back to Close House and it always comes out on top.” DO YOU SPEND A LOT OF TIME HERE? Martin: “We do. I play in a lot of the events here and have had some fantastic experiences. The friendly atmosphere makes coming here so easy.” Cameron: “It’s great to feel so welcome, whether it’s the staff, my dad’s friends or the guys my age. It’s a really good atmosphere.”
CLOSE HOUSE | On course
WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS SEASON? Martin: “Improving my handicap from 19. I’m one of those mid-handicappers who lacks consistency and needs to get rid of those calamitous mistakes. Cameron has grown a lot and now hits it a mile, he just needs to work out the scoring bit. I can’t wait to see the top professionals play the Colt Course. The new tees will make it really tough and it will be fascinating to see how different it is when they play it.” Cameron: “The British Masters will be my first big tournament experience and it will be great to see all the pros in the flesh. On the course, I need
some consistency in my game. If we could take all our good shots and put them together I think we’d both be really good.” WHY DO YOU LOVE GOLF? Cameron: “It’s such a diverse game - some days your game can be amazing - then others it’s dreadful. It keeps you wanting to come back to play better next time.” Martin: “When you hit the ball well, it’s one of the best feelings in the world. Having the opportunity to play the two stunning golf courses here is fantastic and I couldn’t think of a better place to spend my free time with Cameron.” www.closehouse.com 55
A YEAR TO REMEMBER 2016 was another great year for events at Close House, here are just some of the highlights A golf day at Close House is always a memorable occasion, whether with close friends, colleagues or in aid of charity. The 2016 season saw old friends return and many new ones take in the Close House experience, whether for Alan Beenshill’s Captain’s Day, Whack to the Future with United Carlton, Mediaworks’ Mexican-themed event, Offstone Publishing’s invitational or Have a Heart 2016, which raised more than £500,000 for the Children’s Heart Unit Fund at Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital.
1
2
3
4
5
56 www.closehouse.com
6
CLOSE HOUSE | 2016 highlights
7 8 9
10
11
12 13
14 15 #1 Have a Heart: Clare Balding #2 Captain’s Day: Paul Souter #3 Captain’s Day: Jonathan Lupton, Alan Beenshill, Graham Wylie & Mel Wanless #4 The Captain’s Day rain #5 Have a Heart: Chubby Chandler and his teammates #6 Have a Heart: Jonathan Lupton, Declan Donnelly and Graham Wylie #7 Captain’s Day: Nigel Brown #8 Have a Heart: Ian Wright #9 The Have a Heart 2016 celebrities #10 Have a Heart: Jeremy Kyle #11 Mediaworks Annual Golf Day: Gary Smith and Brett Jacobson #12 Whack to the Future with United Carlton: Tom Seymour, Joe Evans, Paul Blake, Matt Wootten #13 The players from the Mediaworks Annual Golf Day #14 Offstone Invitational: Paul Robertson, Paul Vokes, Fred Howie & Matt Sammons #15 Offstone Invitational: Geoff Cook, Jonathan Ward, Gary Ramsay & Michael Foggin www.closehouse.com 57
THE BEST OF THE NORTH EAST Close House is the perfect base for exploring the North East, as well as being home to two superb golf courses. Just 12 miles from the centre of Newcastle yet in the heart of countryside, you’re just minutes from nightlife, shopping, history and more - here we explore some of the best bits in the new Audi Q5… COAST AND CASTLES The North East coast is strewn with ancient castles, historic landmarks and stunning beaches – from Lindisfarne Priory, Bamburgh Castle and Dunstanburgh Castle in the north to Hadrian’s Wall running from the coast, right past Close House and over to Cumbria and the west coast. 58 www.closehouse.com
CLOSE HOUSE | On the road
GETTING AROUND The all-new Audi Q5 was the perfect match for our tour of the North East, ideal for city driving and the winding B-roads of Northumberland, this superefficient 2017 upgrade handled everything we could throw at it. The mid-sized SUV is spacious too, with plenty of room for golf clubs and little ones, while it looks good on the streets of Newcastle as well. Prices from £37,750 Available at Tyneside Audi www.lookers.co.uk/audi/ contact-us/tyneside-audi/
With its good looks and compact SUV design, the allnew Audi Q5 was the perfect choice for exploring the coast, country and city
NIGHTS OUT When it comes to nightlife, Newcastle is one of Europe’s biggest party cities. The street come alive in the evening and the party continues into the early hours every weekend. www.closehouse.com 59
CLOSE HOUSE | On the road
ON THE MOVE Northumberland is famous for its walking and cycling. Hadrian’s Wall is just minutes from the front gates of Close House and offers stunning views and inspiring history. The Tour of Britain road cycling race passed through the Tyne Valley in 2015, and you’ll also find fantastic mountain biking in the Northumberland National Park.
The North East’s sporting pedigree is renowned around the world SPORT The North East is filled with sporting history and sporting events fill each month of the year. From horse racing at Hexham and Newcastle, to rugby at Kingston Park and football at St James’ Park, you’ll find huge sporting occasions whenever you visit.
Newcastle’s streets buzz every day of the week from morning to late in the evening SHOPPING The streets of Newcastle are filled with big names, designer boutiques and great bars and restaurants – making a day’s shopping an absolute must. One of Europe’s largest shopping centres, the Metrocentre is just 11 miles from Close House. 60 www.closehouse.com
We’d love to help Your health is our priority
Meet our s consultant
tments ute appoin Free 10 min ialist eet our spec Come and m adshow ro r ou at one of East consultants ss the North events acro 8 7421 for Call 0191 44 ation or rm fo in more t po ap intmen to book an
We’re here to look after you. Nothing is more important to us than your wellbeing. At Spire Washington Hospital, every member of staff is committed to providing the highest quality healthcare. Whatever your reason for visiting, you will always be treated with respect and professionalism. There is a highly trained team of nurses and a resident medical doctor on site 24 hours a day, so you know you are in safe hands. You will see your chosen consultant at every stage of the process, pre and post-surgery. Your wellbeing is their overriding priority and their services are available to everyone - whether you are covered with private medical insurance or paying for your own treatment, for which Spire Washington Hospital offers one-off private treatment with
a fixed price agreed in advance. Spire Healthcare has formed a partnership with April UK to create ‘inSpire’ - an innovative health insurance plan that combines high quality healthcare with exceptional value for money. For more information or to get a quote call 0800 470 4595. The hospital, which has 35 in-patient beds – 23 with en-suite facilities and the rest of which make up their day case ward - provides high levels of medical treatment and personal care. This includes a wide range of procedures and treatments from diagnostic imaging including X-Ray, MRI, CT and Ultrasound, to surgery including bariatric, orthopaedic and general surgical procedures.
/SpireWashington Picktree Lane, Rickleton, Tyne and Wear, NE38 9JZ
Situated in a quiet residential area, the hospital has extensive grounds which create a relaxing atmosphere for both patients and visitors alike. Spire Washington Hospital is within easy reach of the A1(M), close to Durham, Newcastle and Sunderland and also has free parking.
For more information on Spire Washington Hospital’s services or to book an appointment, speak to one of their friendly customer service advisers at:
0191 448 7421 info@spirewashington.com www.spirewashington.com
BE OUR GUEST
Whether you’re tackling the host course of the 2017 British Masters or looking to relax in the Northumberland countryside, a visit to Close House is a special experience
H
ome to groups of golfers visiting from far and wide, and couples splitting their time between the golf course and exploring Newcastle and Northumberland, The Courtyard rooms at Close House are the place to unwind and savour the Close House experience. Also home to one of the UK & Ireland’s Top 100 golf courses as well as first-class hospitality at the No.19 clubhouse, Close House ticks all the boxes for a relaxing break. It is set in the stunning Tyne Valley, minutes
62 www.closehouse.com
from the city of Newcastle and its shopping, sport and nightlife, yet in the heart of the countryside. Being within a few miles of Hadrian’s Wall and some of England’s finest castles, make it an ideal base for those exploring the North East of England. The 16 Courtyard rooms, which can accommodate up to 34 guests, are named after courses designed by the legendary golf course designer Harry Colt, including Sunningdale, Muirfield, Royal Portrush and Wentworth.
CLOSE HOUSE | Stay & play
GREEN FEES 2017
RATES Winter Sun-Mon: £99 per person* Winter Fri-Sat: £129 per person* Summer Mon-Thurs: £129 per person* Summer Fri-Sun: £179 per person* Based on two people sharing, one night bed and breakfast, a round on the Colt Course and the Filly Course. *Prices for 2017
Guests at Close House are members for the day so start your day with breakfast in No.19 before warming up at the PGA Academy and on the Yearling course ahead of your game. Before heading out, the Golf Services team are on-hand to get your bag from your car, clean your clubs and shoes for you, talk you through the scorecard and the day’s pin sheet and offer helpful advice on the challenge ahead; a five minute chat is sure to save a shot or two! After your round, refresh and change in the locker room before enjoying a wellearned drink. COLT COURSE Adult visitor £110 Junior visitor £75 Golf resident £75 Member’s guest £40 FILLY COURSE Adult visitor £50 Junior visitor £37.50 Golf resident £37.50 Member’s guest £20 For all enquiries and bookings tel 01661 85 22 55 or visit www.closehouse.com www.closehouse.com 63
CLOSE HOUSE | Visit
APRIL–SEPTEMBER 2017 PACKAGES PRICE AVAILABLE FROM 12 PLAYERS
Lee Westwood Filly Course Society Package 18 holes on the Lee Westwood Filly course Tea/coffee and bacon rolls on arrival From £35 per person
AN EXPERIENCE TO REMEMBER Why everyone is talking about Close House
A
day spent on the golf course is one to savour, whether it is spent with friends, colleagues, business partners or raising money for charity. Hosting an event at Close House is sure to make the experience unforgettable. The Close House team are on-hand to deliver everything from organising on-course scoring and challenges and golf buggies for each of your players, to prize tables and gift bags. Each day at Close House is tailored to you, whether that means booking evening
64 www.closehouse.com
Lee Westwood Filly Course Business Package 18 holes on the Lee Westwood Filly course Tea/coffee and bacon rolls on arrival (Full English breakfast + £5pp) BBQ or private dining menu Longest drive Nearest the pin Event registration and scorecard marking From £80 per person
entertainment or ensuring players receive the ultimate tournament experience on the golf course, practice facilities and in No.19. Just 15 minutes’ drive from Newcastle city centre and Newcastle International Airport, Close House is also ideally placed for visitors to the region, with the option to stay in the Courtyard rooms for those travelling from across the UK. To find out more about holding a personal, society, charity or corporate golf day at Close House contact the events team, tel 01661 85 22 55 or email events@closehouse.co.uk
Rated one of the Best!
Insurance and Customer Service we’re proud of.
TRUSTPILOT 9.7 out of 10 - EXCELLENT as of 15/03/17
PAYING TOO MUCH FOR YOUR CAR INSURANCE? Get a Quick Quote Today!
Visit
www.youngdrivers.collingwood.co.uk
Get a Quote
It takes minutes to get a price
Buy & Drive
Get instant cover, even before the box is fitted*
Join the 1000’s of 17-24 Year Olds That saved with Collingwood Young Drivers GET A QUOTE TODAY! Excellent Winner of the DIA 2016 Award for Best Young/Learner Insurance Provider
YOUNG DRIVERS INSURANCE www.youngdrivers.collingwood.co.uk
Collingwood Insurance Services (UK) Ltd are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Register no. 310870. Registered in England No 4174235. Collingwood Insurance Services (UK) Ltd, Collingwood House, Redburn Court, Earl Grey Way, North Shields, Tyne & Wear, NE29 6AR. * Requires telematics box to be fitted within 28 days terms and conditions apply. A4 Close House.indd 1
30/03/2017 12:42:21
FIT FOR PURPOSE
Dean Bailey tests out the PGA Academy’s new putting studio
W
hen it comes to putting, the old adage of ‘the most difficult game within the game’ is a very apt one in my case. All too often I lament the missed four footers to save par, or those putts which trickle past the hole on the low side without ever having a chance of going in. So, determined to set things straight before the start of the season, and with a new putting studio up and running at Close House already being used by Lee Westwood, I thought there was no better time or place to get some expert help. Fitted with the latest technology, including a putting surface from European Golf Design which covers the whole room and the SAM PuttLab system, the studio complements the world-class technology available at the PGA Academy. Using SAM PuttLab with the help of head PGA professional Matthew Naylor, we set to work finding out everything you’d ever need to know about my putting stroke - from how well I square the face to the target at address, to the putter head’s direction and path, through to the impact spot, loft, face rotation and movement dynamics (the head’s velocity and acceleration), all of which is displayed in front of me on the TV. “Having access to equipment like SAM
66 www.closehouse.com
PuttLab pushes what we do to the next level,” explains Matthew, who also has access to Flightscope and video analysis equipment for a complete custom fit. “We can now show players exactly what we’re talking about, talking them through the numbers and tracking their improvement - ultimately building a better, more consistent stroke which they understand the mechanics of.” Combine the expertise of the professionals here with the state-of-the-art equipment, the quality of the driving range, short game area, new outdoor putting green and access to the Yearling, Filly and Colt courses and there are few facilities in the world with a better allround custom fitting and practice experience. The studio is also home to the latest equipment from leading brands including PING, Scotty Cameron, Odyssey and TaylorMade, complementing the club fittings available for drivers, woods, irons and wedges in the two bays just across the hallway. As for me, there’s nowhere to hide when it comes to the data, which reveals a tendency to leave the blade open through impact which won’t do me much good. An hour later, and with a couple of simple drills from Matthew to work on, my numbers have improved and a few hours practice should be getting me ready for the start of the season, the only thing I have to do now is get the ball to the greens.
CLOSE HOUSE | PGA Academy
With the latest technology as well as equipment from the industry’s leading manufacturers there is nowhere better than Close House for a full custom fitting experience www.closehouse.com 67
CLOSE HOUSE | PGA Academy
HOME ON THE RANGE
Here’s why Lee Westwood chooses to practice at the PGA Academy at Close House
P
reparation is the key to success on the golf course. From refining your technique on the driving range and practice green, technical analysis and custom fitting using state-of-the-art technology and seeking the advice of our PGA professionals are all things available to you in the PGA Academy at Close House, as well as a top-notch cup of coffee. Further enhanced this year ahead of the British Masters with the addition of its own putting green, new putting studio and expanded teeing ground, the facilities are among the best in the UK. The only facility of its kind in the North of England, the PGA Academy is open to golfers of all ages and abilities, including guests wanting to sample the world-class facilities.
68 www.closehouse.com
OPENING TIMES Mon 7.30am-9pm Tues 10am-9pm Weds-Fri 7.30am-9pm Sat 7.30am-7pm Sun 7.30am-7pm *Last balls dispensed half an hour before building closes PRICES 50 balls £5 100 balls £7.50 Custom fitting £25 per hour* *Deducted from price when purchased
Whether you’re practising ahead of a European Tour event or making your first steps in golf, the PGA Academy at Close House is the ideal place to hone your skills. • • • • •
PGA professional staff Floodlights for late-evening practice Long-game and short-game practice areas Large putting green - new for 2017 Technical analysis and custom fitting aided by GASP video software and FlightScope • Putting suite with SAM PuttLab analysis system and Visio training aids • Introduction of physical profiling to aid golf development with TPI • Equipment from leading brands including PING, Callaway, Titleist, TaylorMade, Mizuno, Odyssey, Scotty Cameron
CLOSE HOUSE | The professionals
“I’m here to give all the players as much support as possible and ultimately help them succeed on the golf course” SALLY HINTON
GIRL POWER PGA professional Sally Hinton discusses her work with elite players, and her hopes for the them in the future
V
Sally working with Rachel Gourley
isit the PGA Academy at Close House and you’re likely to find youngsters picking up a club for the first time, social players practising ahead of a big golf day, and you may even catch Lee Westwood fine tuning his game. Head to the Academy on a Saturday morning and you’ll find PGA professional Sally Hinton at the centre of a hive of activity as she develops the best female players in the county. The girls squad coach for six years, Sally took on the role of ladies coach in 2015 and is working with players ranging from former tour professionals through to bright young talents. “I’m here to give all the players as much support as possible and ultimately help them succeed on the golf course,” explains Sally. One of the brightest talents in the squads is Niamh Lendrum, who Sally first met aged 12 and playing off a handicap of 20. Now she’s 17, has been part of the Lee Westwood scholarship programme, is playing off four and is heading off to Missouri State University in the summer for a golf scholarship. “She’s been incredibly dedicated to her golf and I can’t wait to see her progress and enjoy her time there,” adds Sally, a Missouri State alumnus. “We’ll be awarding two more scholarships this summer and the success of those, with three players going off to scholarships in the US [Matty Lamb, Kitana Hollins and Niamh] is fantastic.” For now, it’s time for the girls to get some more practice in. www.closehouse.com 69
CLOSE HOUSE | The professionals
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
PGA professional Tim Cockill on introducing youngsters to the game through a new programme with Lookers
T
he golfing landscape in the UK is shifting with the game’s average age creeping higher and more pressure than ever before to get juniors into the game. That’s why Lookers has teamed up with Close House to deliver a programme of taster sessions to local schools. PGA professional Tim Cockill plays a big part in introducing new players to the game at Close House, both young players and adults through Get into Golf. He believes reaching out to schools and giving youngsters the opportunity to try the game in a fun format is the key. “I take a lot of pride in developing golfers, there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing people enjoy playing golf,” says Tim.
70 www.closehouse.com
“We want to grow the number of people playing the game and to have the funding in place from Lookers to do that is fantastic.” The programme, which is being delivered in 10 schools, introduces pupils to golf for the first time, starting with plastic clubs and progressing through to visiting the Academy. “The pathway is clearly laid out and the kids can try as much as they want to. The hope is that it inspires them to play golf, and we have the right pathways in place here for them.” As well as working in schools, Tim delivers junior coaching at the Academy and is developing a new programme to deliver coaching each weeknight - supporting junior golfers’ development at each step.
CLOSE HOUSE | The professionals
PRACTISE LIKE THE PROS Close House head PGA professional Matthew Naylor on preparing like the best players in the world
“There is simply no substitute for proper, competitive practice and this drill is certain to improve your scores this summer” MATTHEW NAYLOR
T
he key to taking what we work on at the PGA Academy out onto the golf course is practising under pressure, mimicking the shots and situations we’ll find out on the golf course. We use this skills challenge with players of all abilities at the PGA Academy and it covers five key areas of the short game, each vital to keeping your score going out on the golf course. Hit five shots from each location to your target, recording each hole out (4pts), shot within 0-5ft (2pts) and shot within 5-10ft (1pt). Track your scores each time you complete the drill and you should soon see your short game improving from hitting just 25 shots in each session.
Shot
(each from 15 yards)
Score
Chip shot Pitch shot (rough) Bunker shot Pitch shot (fairway) Lob shot Total
www.closehouse.com 71
CLOSE HOUSE | Advertorial
THE NEXT GENERATION of private security
SRX have built a reputation as one of the world’s leading boutique private security companies Local businessman and SRX Commercial Director, Gareth Nesbit, explains how private security has evolved into something we all have a requirement for in the modern day. How serious is the threat and why do we need private security? The threat has changed since the most recent financial downturn. We have found that due to police budgets being reduced and with an ever growing influx of overseas criminals adding to the organised crime fraternity in the UK, the need for private security has increased more than ever. There is clearly an increase in threat from domestic terrorism not seen in the UK since the Troubles in Northern Ireland which has refocussed police and security services, so the onus now falls on commercial and private entities to ensure their own security needs are met, rather than relying solely on the Police. Who are your clients? Whilst our clients will always include royalty, high-net-worth individuals and elite sporting teams, gone are the days when private security was exclusive to only the super-rich. Now it is accessible to us all, whether that be a simple but effective CCTV system you can monitor from your smartphone or a smoke screen to protect your car parked in the garage. We’re seeing our client list expand all the time, with an increasingly diverse range of private and commercial projects. How can you ensure the safety of your clients? The bad guys will always choose the softest target – they don’t want any conflict or to risk being captured, so if you can demonstrate that you’ve addressed your security requirements, that will more than likely be enough
of a deterrent. Our packages (both commercial and private) ensure that within any budget we provide the highest level of protection possible, with the minimum disruption to a client’s personal lifestyle or business model. Who are your staff ? Our security personnel are hand-picked for each client according to their skill-sets, experience and often, their personality. Most of them come from a background in elite military units or the police, so not only is security second nature to them, but they also have high levels of professionalism, discretion and integrity. How do your solutions match a client’s specific threat level and budget? There is a security solution for everyone, regardless of budget. In order to ascertain exactly what security is required, we conduct a full security assessment prior to making recommendations. This would normally include a ‘penetration test’ where we play the role of the bad guys and attempt to breach existing security (or lack of it) to identify any weaknesses. This highlights any gaps in your security, which in turn will form the basis of our recommendations in order to close these gaps. Are these security solutions physical or technical? We have a saying that if Hadrian built his wall again, he may well have CCTV cameras on it, but he’d still have Roman soldiers stood on top as well! The point here is that whilst technology is very much an asset to private security it is best used as part of a physical security package. The whole cyber threat is growing at an alarming rate and that is something that impacts on each and every one of us – so much so, that part of our penetration testing now involves using a team of GCHQ trained technical experts to attempt to hack a client’s emails, phones and any other IT systems to show how much at risk they are, before offering suggestions on how to mitigate these risks.
SRX have offices in the UK, France and the UAE. Commercial Director for the UK, Gareth Nesbit lives in the North East of England and works from the SRX Head Office in South Shields. Contact SRX via the website www.srx-group.com, email security@srx-group.com or call 0191 4936925
CLOSE HOUSE | Yearling Course
“It doesn’t matter what level you play at, around 70% of your shots are from inside 100 yards and the Yearling Course, with its small greens, tricky length shots and top quality layout is the perfect place to cut shots off your scores” LEE WESTWOOD
THE YEARLING COURSE
W
hether you need to work on those short pitches to keep a round going or those delicate chip shots that need to settle by the hole to secure an up-and-down, there are few better places to practise than the Yearling par three course. Constructed and presented to the same
standard as the Colt and Filly courses, this ninehole layout features holes from 35-70 yards, deep greenside bunkers, hazards and thick rough. Whether you’re sharpening your game before tackling the course - playing to the par of 27 is tough – or making the step from the PGA Academy to a short course for the first time, the Yearling is the place to raise your game. www.closehouse.com 73
CLOSE HOUSE | EuroPro Tour
SEASON OPENER The HotelPlanner.com PGA EuroPro Tour returns to the Colt Course at Close House April 26-28
T
he best young professionals from across the UK & Ireland will begin the 2017 EuroPro Tour season at Close House April 26-28 for The Lookers Championship. This year marks the first time the tour has shared a venue with the European Tour as the EuroPro returns to Close House for a third consecutive year with a £50,000 tournament prize fund, including a £10,000 winner’s cheque. This year’s EuroPro season will also be the first to offer a £250,000 bonus to any player
who can capture four titles, as well as being the first year to start in the North East. In 2016, Richard James (pictured) lifted The Lookers Championship on his way to securing fourth place in the Order of Merit and a full card for this season’s Challenge Tour. 2015 Close House EuroPro Tour winner Marcus Armitage will be looking to return to the North East later this season. Marcus progressed to the Challenge Tour on the back of his win, before making the step up to the European Tour in 2017 following a win at the Foshan Open in 2016. www.closehouse.com 75
CLOSE HOUSE | Advertorial
Sally Hart and Robyn Peat
SENIOR APPOINTMENTS SIGNIFY GROWTH IS KEY FOR GEORGE F. WHITE Strategic growth is a key objective for land, business and property group George F. White with the business focused on developing its range of services across several key sectors. The Group’s planning and development and energy teams, in particular, have continued to expand and the business has recently made a number of senior appointments, most notably a new Operations Director for the Group, and a Regional Operations Manager for GFW Letting, the Group’s letting agency, which operates as a separate entity. Sally Hart, previously Head of Communications at the Group, has been promoted to Operations Director. Her role involves setting growth objectives across every arm of the business, including GFW Letting, and pushing forward the overall growth strategy. Donna Cheney has been recruited as GFW Letting’s Regional Operations Manager, following extensive experience in the residential letting sector. Donna will focus on building and developing the established letting business to help meet the agency’s five-year targets. “The George F. White Group puts its clients and its people at the heart of everything it does and the team is always committed to delivering high quality professional work, whatever their discipline,” said Robyn Peat, Managing Partner at George F. White. “Our ethos has provided the ideal environment for the team to grow as individuals and lead as
members of the senior management team. It has enabled Sally personally to rise up through the ranks and also help us to attract a high calibre professional in Donna.” The business has continued to grow and evolve since it was established nearly 40 years ago. George F. White is now a multi-disciplined and diverse consultancy that employs more than 120 people in eight locations from the Scottish Borders down to North Lincolnshire. A key element of Sally’s role is focused on identifying and delivering opportunities for growth which includes revenue sources, people and new geographical areas. “My position is very commercially focused as I steer the overall operation and performance of the George F. White business,” said Sally. “2017 is about consolidating recent growth in our key regions - Scotland, Northumberland, Durham and Yorkshire - and securing a bigger share of the market in up and coming areas for us including Tyne and Wear. We have recently opened an office in Hoults Yard, Newcastle with a key focus on Planning and Development, Energy and Commercial. It really is shaping up to be a hugely challenging but exciting and evolving year.” For information about current vacancies at George F. White, please contact Sally Hart on sallyhart@ georgefwhite.co.uk or 07525 803956.
CLOSE HOUSE | Greenwatch
ON COURSE
Golf course and estates manager Brian Clark on Close House’s transformation and preparing for the British Masters
W
hen he first arrived at Close House, then an 18-hole course with a cricket pavilion for a clubhouse and rugby pitches across six fairways, Brian Clark couldn’t have imagined what it would become. “Starting out in August 2004, I had no idea what I’d let myself in for. I’ll admit I was pretty shocked coming from an established resort,” he says. Having rerouted and remodelled the Filly Course in 2005-6, Brian worked alongside architect Scott Macpherson to plan and construct the Colt Course between 2007–2011. “Since day one, the major works haven’t
stopped,” he says looking out across the Yearling and Filly courses. “It’s a rollercoaster, every day I wake up and think, ‘what is going to happen today?’” Ahead of the British Masters, Brian and his team of 22 greenkeepers and four estates staff have been working on enhancing the Colt Course. Construction work began in June 2016 with new tees, cart paths and alterations to the bunkering and green complexes. Working closely with Eddie Adams, the European Tour’s agronomy consultant, a total of 20,000 tonnes of sand will also be applied to the course as part of the sandbanding programme to improve drainage. With six months to go until the tournament begins, Brian’s thoughts are already turning to seeing the world’s best players on the Colt Course. “The occasions keep getting bigger and better and the British Masters is going to be the highlight of Close House’s story. To have Graham’s trust on delivering the courses to his vision is a great feeling. “The week of the British Masters will be a fantastic moment for me and the whole team, to see the best players in the world playing the course, and to see it on Sky Sports at its best will be a great reward for the work we’ve put in.” www.closehouse.com 77
CLOSE HOUSE | The A team
MEET THE TEAM
STEPHEN BLAKEY Head greenkeeper
VICTOR CASTRO-QUIROGA Food & beverage manager
JAMES HOWARD Golf sales co-ordinator
It’s been incredible to be part of the development here since 2005. It’s a fabulous place to work and to be part of the British Masters here in the North East will be so exciting. Nothing has stood still since I arrived and every day brings with it a new challenge. I can honestly say that I love what I do.
I’m so happy to be back at Close House. I love working with the people here and it’s really exciting to be part of developing what No.19 is for our members and guests. I can’t imagine we’ll ever stop moving forward and improving step by step.
I’ve been obsessed with golf since I was a teenager and I feel very lucky to be here in such an important year. The British Masters is going to be a huge event for the North of England and I’m already excited to see the best players in the world here in September.
LAURA PEVERLEY Event sales executive
CRAIG WRIGHT Membership sales manager
REBECCA LOWDON Accounts manager
Looking after the events here is an interesting challenge, with some left-field ideas including arranging fairgrounds and mariachi bands. There are so many amazing events here and to be part of creating them is fascinating; I couldn’t imagine working anywhere else.
I really enjoy making sure everyone who is part of Close House has the best experiences, whether that’s playing in competitions, practising at the Academy or relaxing in No. 19. I’ve met so many interesting people and to do that in such a stunning setting is fantastic.
Seeing what has happened here since I arrived 11 years ago is amazing. So many of us are still here and it’s great to work with so many friends. It’s easy to take what we have here for granted, but it’s amazing to drive into work each morning and it just keeps getting better every year.
78 www.closehouse.com
PG A
M em be rs
‘F Bo Sa am v il 20 ok e 5 y & 17 by % Fr vo 31 on ien ya M yo d ge ay ur s’ D s 20 Si is on 17 lv co ly. . O ers un T’s ffe ea t O & r a cr ffe C pp uis r ’s li e Ap es . pl to y.
CLOSE HOUSE | Advertorial
WHERE LUXURY MEETS ADVENTURE The views are amazing, the destinations almost unheard of. The thrill of exploration and discovery is all around when you embark on a cruise with Silversea Expeditions. Hailed as the leaders in destination based experiential itineraries, Silversea’s latest addition to their expedition family, Silver Cloud, won’t disappoint. After extensive refurbishment, she offers more gilt-edged refinements than you would ever expect on an expedition ship and truly captures the thrill of discovery with the comforts of modern luxury. Travelling from pole to pole, and everywhere in between, Silver Cloud’s inaugural 2017/18 season sees her spending the winter in the Antarctic Peninsula before sailing north, via Cape Town and Western Africa into Europe, visiting must-see and off the beaten track ports of call along the way. She’ll then meet the challenges of The Arctic, Canada and Central and South America.
Daily lectures and Zodiac tours give a chance to explore both on land and sea. Combine this with five dining options, in-suite butler service and no hidden extras, it really is the adventure of a lifetime with the first-class service and comfort you deserve. For more information or to book your Silversea cruise contact its local preferred partner Travel Bureau on 0191 285 9321, email cruise@travelb.co.uk or visit www.travelb.co.uk.
SAVE THE DATE Exclusive members’ events take place throughout the year, from social events to the Club Championship. Here are all the key dates
APRIL 8
APRIL 26-28
MAY 27
US Masters Championship
EuroPro Tour Lookers Championship
Speedy Speedflex Event
APRIL 8-9
APRIL 29
JUNE 3
PING Golden Putter Par 3 Championship
TSG Trophy
Cellular Solutions Trophy
APRIL 20
MAY 6
JUNE 10
Associate Partners Golf Day
Collingwood Trophy
J&J Trophy
APRIL 21
MAY 8
JUNE 17
Corporate Partners Golf Day
St James Place 9-Hole Texas Scramble
Lookers Golf Trophy
APRIL 22
MAY 20
JUNE 18
Lloyd BMW Championship
Diamond Classic
Father and Son Competition
80 www.closehouse.com
CLOSE HOUSE | Diary
JUNE 24
SEPTEMBER 2
SEPTEMBER 27
Wines of the World
Gourmet Golf Day
British Masters pro am
JULY 1
SEPTEMBER 9-10
SEPT 28 - OCT 1
British Masters pro am qualifier
Invitation Days
British Masters
JULY 15
SEPTEMBER 17
OCTOBER 7
Shepherd Offshore Trophy
Heineken Tiger Trophy
Founders’ Day
JULY 8-9
SEPTEMBER 18
OCTOBER 14-15
Club Championship
Lee Westwood & PING Golf Clinic
Close House Classic Weekend
AUGUST 26
SEPTEMBER 26
OCTOBER 21
Captain’s Day
Final of the Junior Masters
Cross Country www.closehouse.com 81
CLOSE HOUSE | Competition
WIN THE CLOSE HOUSE EXPERIENCE
H
aving read all about the world-class experience available at Close House, here is your chance to win an overnight stay for two people at the host venue of the 2017 British Masters.
The prize includes an overnight stay for two in The Courtyard at Close House, a three-course dinner and breakfast in No.19, and two rounds of golf, one on the Lee Westwood Filly Course and one on the Lee Westwood Colt Course.
For your chance to win, head to www.closehouse.com/chmagazine and answer the following question:
In which year did Lee Westwood make his Ryder Cup debut?
82 www.closehouse.com
INFINITI NEWCASTLE
Middle Engine Lane, Silverlink Business Park, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear NE28 9NZ | 0191 295 8686 | www.infinitinewcastle.com
The Best Deals in Britain? Q50 THE BRAND NEW INFINITI Q50 From just £269 Deposit & £269 per month
MRRP £29,700 Our Price £17,973
Save £11,727
• Half Leather Upholstery • Dual Zone Climate Control • Twin Exhaust • Bluetooth Streaming • Drive Mode Selector • 17” Alloy Wheels • Cruise Control • Keyless Start
Q70 THE BRAND NEW INFINITI Q70 PREMIUM From just £249 Deposit & £249 per month
MRRP £33,750 Our Price £19,625
Save £14,175
• Full Leather Upholstery • Satellite Navigation • 18” Alloy Wheels • Electric Memory Drivers Seat • Bluetooth & 30GB Hard Drive Music Box • Dual Zone Climate • Cruise Control • Voice Activation
PCP Representative example: Infiniti Q70 2.2d Premium 4dr Automatic
24 monthly On the road payments cash price
£249
£19625.53
Customer Total amount Duration of Optional final Total amount Interest rate APR deposit of credit agreement payment payable (Fixed) Representative
£249
£19376.53 24 months £15625.09 £21850.09
6.3%
6.3%
Based on 8,000 miles per annum
Official fuel economy figures for the Infiniti Q70 range in mpg (l/100 km): urban 25.2 to 15.0 (11.2 to 18.9), extra urban 36.2 to 28.8 (7.8 to 9.8), combined 31.4 to 21.6 (9.0 to 13.1). CO2 emission: 307 to 238g/km. We are a credit broker, and we are not a lender. Finance provided by Infiniti Financial Services, Eagle House, 78 St Albans Road, Watford, Hertfordshire WD17 1AF. Subject to status. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. You must be at least 18 and a UK resident (excluding the Isle of Man and Channel Islands). Models shown for illustration purposes. Metallic paint available at extra cost. Terms and conditions apply, please visit your local dealer for full details. Offer valid until 31st March 2017 at participating dealers only and subject to vehicle availability. Offer based on 8,000 miles per annum, excess mileage 8p per mile. Offers not available in conjunction with any schemes or other offers. Vehicle price includes first registration fee and 12 months’ road fund licence and delivery costs. Infiniti Europe Division of Nissan International SA, Zone d’Activités La Pièce 12, 1180 Rolle, Switzerland. Terms and conditions apply. Finance subject to status. CO2/MPG figures based on EU regulated laboratory testing, and may not represent real-life driving results (which vary depending on driving behaviour, conditions and other factors).
OFFICIAL VENUE
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW IN THE GOLF SHOP A donation will be made to the
Graham Wylie Foundation for every ticket sold at Close House Visit www.closehouse.com for further details
PLAY
EAT
Heddon on the Wall, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE15 0HT www.closehouse.com
STAY