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Looking Back: A Greenkeeper’s Journey at Allendale Golf Club

When you step onto the fairways of Allendale Golf Club, it’s easy to get lost in the stunning views of rural Northumberland. But behind those perfectly cut greens and well-maintained fairways is the dedication of one man – Neil Forsyth. As we take a look back at a key chapter in Allendale’s history, we revisit Neil’s inspiring journey from sheep farming to greenkeeping and how his work transformed the course we know and love today.

A greenkeepers journey - Neil Forsyth, Allendale Golf Club

From Sheep to Greens

Back in 2018, Neil Forsyth swapped the rolling pastures of his family’s farm for the undulating fairways of Allendale Golf Club. Having grown up in the area and been a member since 1999, Neil had always had a deep connection to the club. But when he took on the role of greenkeeper and secretary, his experience with farming equipment and a keen golfer’s eye would become invaluable.

“I could drive a tractor and played to a decent standard – that was about it,” Neil recalled when reflecting on his early days. Yet, despite having no formal greenkeeping experience, he took to the job with an eagerness to learn and a determination to improve the course, receiving guidance from experienced greenkeepers and suppliers along the way.

A Trial by Snow

Starting a new job is tough at the best of times, but Neil’s first week coincided with the infamous ‘Beast from the East,’ covering the course in a thick blanket of snow. His first real task? Clearing up once the snow melted. “The first day I cut the greens, Ian [long-time volunteer greenkeeper Ian Robinson] watched me do the ninth and walked back to the shed, so I guessed I’d be alright from there,” Neil recalled with a laugh.

With support from Ian and advice from industry experts like David Thompson, head greenkeeper at Hexham Golf Club, Neil gradually built up his knowledge of greenkeeping. “I knew about fertilisers from farming, but I’d never aerated turf or sprayed a wetting agent,” he admitted. Slowly but surely, he turned theory into practice, and the results soon spoke for themselves.

Small Budget, Big Improvements

Working within a limited budget, Neil made every penny count. The improvements started with the greens, initially using an old heavy roller to enhance their smoothness before moving on to more advanced maintenance techniques like hollow coring.

His efforts didn’t go unnoticed. The members loved the improvements, and in 2021, Allendale had the honour of hosting a match between the Northumberland and Cumbria county boys’ teams, earning high praise from the young competitors.

“We’ve always had tremendous views, and I want to present a golf course to match,” Neil said at the time. His passion for the course and commitment to taking it ‘one step forward each season’ paid off, with visitor numbers and memberships growing significantly in the years that followed.

A Legacy of Passion

One of the biggest testaments to Neil’s dedication was his decision to sell the last of his sheep in 2021 to dedicate even more time to the golf course. “There’s nowhere better to work outdoors on a sunny day,” he said, summing up his deep-rooted connection to the club.

Neil’s tenure as greenkeeper is a shining example of how passion, hard work, and community support can transform a golf course. His story remains an inspiration, proving that with enough determination, even the wildest career changes can lead to something truly special.

As we look back at Neil’s journey, we also look forward to the continued growth and development of Allendale Golf Club, forever grateful for the care and effort that has helped shape the course we all enjoy today.

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