An Angus golf resort that ceased trading because of an ownership dispute will reopen its courses this weekend thanks to members.
More than 230 people signed up for membership at Letham Grange, which will be run by a committee and volunteers from Letham Grange Golf Club (LGGC).
Odyssey Asset Management has run the Old and Glens courses since 2004, but Taiwanese businessman Dong Guang (Peter) Liu claims he still owns the business.
Until the legal wrangle is concluded, Odyssey has agreed to allow the golf club to run the courses and provide limited clubhouse facilities.
Club secretary Gardiner Arthur said, “The golf club received the support from over 200 members who attended an EGM earlier this month and have proceeded with plans to operate the golf courses and clubhouse facilities under licence.
“Members were asked to make their initial membership fee payment on Saturday, and 230 did just that, enabling greenkeeping staff to start work on Monday next week.
“This level of support for the committee’s plan is a good initial response to what the committee believe are two fantastic options for adult memberships.”
In a statement on the LGGC website, captain Nick Jackson said the committee was determined the club would celebrate its 25th year by ensuring golf continues at the resort.
He added, “The hotel and course closures in January were of course hugely disappointing, but we must also see this as an opportunity to influence and create a platform for future golf at Letham Grange, and define the golf club’s role in that future.
“Our plans are ambitious. We intend to operate both courses, we need to be financially independent, we want basic clubhouse facilities, we want visitors, corporate members, sponsors, and of course a robust membership.”
A management team has been set up to administer the operation of the golf courses, while the rest of the committee will ensure that the more traditional aspects of golf club administration are addressed.
Members will be asked to take their turn to man the golf desk, answer the phone, keep the changing rooms and other areas clean and tidy, marshal the courses, do odd jobs and provide some basic catering.
Mr Jackson added, “We will welcome all new suggestions and ideas to sustain and grow our income.”
LGGC offer a package reduced from the options which were in place prior to the club closing down.
A fee of £350 is to be charged for membership to both the Old and Glens courses, with a £100 initial payment followed by five monthly payments of £50. To join only the easier Glens course, golfers must pay a total of £280, with £80 payable up front, followed by five payments of £40.
Members and visitors will be able to make tee-time bookings from Friday on 01241 890373.Full details are available on the golf club website at www.lethamgrangegolf club.co.uk or by email at secretarylggc@aol.com.