Blacknest Golf Club’s ladies section held its final annual general meeting on February 22.

Ladies captain Sue Hunt welcomed Jacqui Fish from Annabelle’s Challenge, the charity which the ladies section supported during 2023, and presented her with a cheque for £6,770.

The charity provides support to people who suffer from Vascular Danlos-Ehlers Syndrome, a rare life-limiting genetic disorder.

Blacknest’s ladies section, along with the men’s, seniors and juniors sections, will be dissolved at the end of March because 360 Beech, the new owners of Blacknest Golf Club, have decided to close the course for redesign.

Members of the ladies section felt the camaraderie and friendship built up over many years would be greatly missed.

Today (Thursday) they are holding a Farewell Fun Competition and afternoon tea.

Sue thanked all the ladies for their support for her year as captain and said it was sad that it had ended this way.

Introducing their plans for the course on their website as “the next chapter for Blacknest”, the new owners said: “Since 360 Beech Ltd acquired the Blacknest club in October last year, we have been carefully considering how we can create a sustainable and vibrant future for the club, while protecting and enhancing the landscape and environment of the South Downs National Park.

“Importantly, we need to invest substantial sums to update the failed irrigation system and limited drainage. Without this, we believe there is no sustainable, long-term future for the club.

“We are drawing up plans which will allow people to visit and enjoy the national park and experience the landscape, wildlife and sense of place, while respecting the surrounding natural environment.

“In updating the golfing offer to take into account these important ecological considerations, we will be able to create more space for nature in England’s newest national park.”