Chorleywood Golf Club has reopened for members only and with restricted conditions in place, as the UK government eases coronavirus restrictions.

Golfers were delighted when golf clubs in Chorleywood and West Hertfordshire reopened it’s doors to members this morning (May 13), as the club follows guidance by England Golf to operate safely.

Chorleywood Golf Club members can team up in pairs with someone from their household, or one person outside their household, as long as social distancing measures are kept.

This includes keeping a two metre distance, one person on the tee at a time, and members should avoid touching the flag post or the other persons kit and ball.

Individuals can also restart practice and casual play at the golf club, but no competitions will be held during this period.

Colin Chesterman, the men’s captain at the club, explained that the safety of staff and members is the key priority, and it brought a smile to his face to return and play a game after the stricter lockdown period.

He said: “It’s picking up and slots are filling up quickly. There are some members still in self-isolation, while others are dusting off their clubs.

“The clubhouse is closed for now, but we’re actively waiting for further announcements when we can reopen. It may be possible in phase two when more restrictions lift that we can look into opening it.”

Mr Chesterman explained that while guidance showed there could be three or four balls on the course, they limited the number to one or two to ensure safety and to not disrupt those exercising at Chorleywood Common.

He added that people passing by said it was “nice” to see golfers back at the course.

Members must use the online booking system for the sessions, which are spaced 10 minutes apart.

Players are also being told to keep a safe distance from other players at all times.

Mr Chesterman concluded: “We’re delighted to be able to give golfers a chance to go back and resume games.

“As a club, we want to maintain good community relations, which is why we put safety measures and to take extra care when people are at the Common.

“We look forward to the day when we can reopen the clubhouse and welcome guests.”

Watford Borough Council have also confirmed that West Herts Golf Club reopened this morning.

On Facebook, the West Herts Golf Club said: "It's been our pleasure to allow the local community to use our golf course for their daily walks and exercise over the last eight weeks, and thank the majority who have respected our course during this period.

"Following the government announcement recently as from 8am on Wednesday (May 13) the golf course will reopen, therefore we ask all walkers to revert back to using the public footpaths and be aware that the golf course is back open."