Golf Club Talk UK

In the first episode of our three-part GCTUK series, we feature two Managers from opposite ends of the UK. After Leighton & Eddie catch up, our first guest is Victoria (Viki) Hart, the ambitious General Manager of Monifieth Golf Links in Scotland. The historic Links is home to three golf clubs, and Viki is leading an exciting period of growth while also overseeing a major course improvement project with renowned shaper Conor Walsh. Viki also shares fresh insights on how golf can better attract and develop junior and women golfers—two groups that remain underrepresented in the game. We’re also delighted to welcome Bob Marchbanks, General Manager at Bramley Golf Club and current Captain of the GCMA London & Home Counties region. Bob brings a grounded perspective on the challenges facing the golf industry today. He also reflects on Bramley’s recent transformation, driven by a major investment in interior design and member-focused improvements—creating a more seamless and thoughtful experience for both members and guests. https://monifiethgolf.co.uk/ https://www.bramleygolfclub.co.uk/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

In this episode, Leighton is joined by Lee Strutt, a Master Greenkeeper with a career spanning some of the world’s most prestigious golf courses. From his early work at Richmond Golf Club to grow-ins at elite venues like G-West and Les Bordes New Course as well as the Superintendent role at Cabot Cape Breton, Lee shares his journey through the turf industry, culminating in his current role at the iconic Loch Lomond Golf Club. This conversation offers deep insight into the dedication, cultural differences and unique challenges of overseeing these courses in different parts of the world. Topics Covered: Lee’s early days at Richmond Golf Club Experience at G-West, a unique venue in Scotland which has never opened! The RAC Golf Club Les Bordes, including the grow-in of the Gil Hanse designed New Course  The unique challenges of working at Cabot Cape Breton His current role at Loch Lomond The benefit of travel and pushing your boundaries About the Guest: Lee Strutt is a certified Master Greenkeeper and one of the most respected professionals in the turf industry. His career includes leadership roles at Richmond GC, G-West, Les Bordes (New Course grow-in), Cabot Cape Breton, and now Loch Lomond. Known for his technical expertise, leadership, and commitment to excellence, Lee offers a masterclass in career longevity and innovation in golf course management all while traversing countries and cultures.   https://therichmondgolfclub.com/ https://www.gwest.co.uk/ https://www.royalautomobileclub.co.uk/woodcote-park/golf/ https://www.lesbordesgolfclub.com/golf/new-course/ https://cabotcapebreton.com/ https://www.lochlomond.com/   A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro Check them out here!   https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk   Sign up to our Newsletter here

This month we’re diving into the topic of Finance at Golf Clubs – with a particular focus on capital projects and asset finance. We’re joined by Malcolm Pennycott of Golf Finance, who brings his expertise to help demystify a subject that many clubs find challenging. Finance can be a tricky area, especially for member-based clubs, where there is often hesitation or even fear around taking on debt. In this episode, we explore: The types of projects and assets that can be financed. Why irrigation and water storage have become such a hot topic in recent years. How clubs can approach funding projects that may not be achievable without debt. The importance of good governance in making sound financial decisions. How to present a strong case to your Board and members when seeking approval. This is an important conversation around an area that isn’t talked about nearly enough in our industry. https://www.golffinance.co.uk/ https://www.gcma.org.uk/conference-2025/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk

In this episode, we’re joined by Claire Hodgson, Head of iGolf, and Matt Draper, Development and Membership Director, to dive into the world of iGolf. iGolf is an easy-to-use platform for non-club golfers in England, designed to help players track their performance, view their playing record, and obtain or maintain a Handicap Index. Members also enjoy extra perks such as liability insurance — making it a fantastic option for golfers looking to play with more confidence and keep improving their game. We discuss: What iGolf is, and the ethos and concept behind it How long iGolf has been running and how it’s grown iGolf’s relationship to traditional club membership — including positive and negative perceptions, plus opportunities for clubs Insights on members moving from iGolf into club membership How iGolf is administered, marketed, and continually improved Whether you’re a non-club golfer curious about getting a Handicap Index, or a golf club looking to understand the opportunities iGolf presents, this episode is packed with valuable insights. https://englandigolf.co.uk/ https://www.englandgolf.org/ www.golfclubtalk.uk golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

We’re excited to bring back our popular Panel Discussion episodes — and this time, it’s a conversation on AI in Golf Clubs. This Episode’s Panelists: Alastair Siclair - PlayMore Golf Eddie Bullock – Eddie Bullock Golf Consultancy James Wilkinson – Albatross Digital Nick Eden – The Revenue Club Matt Roberts – 59 Club In this forward-thinking episode, Alastair, James, Nick, Matt and Eddie dive into the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in golf — both on and off the course. From smarter operations to a more personalized member experience, the conversation explores how AI is already transforming the way we work and what lies ahead. Key Topics Covered: AI in Golf operations Boosting efficiency & profitability Revenue optimization & tools that can assist Enhancing the Member Experience Dynamic pricing Impact on the Golf Labour Market Tune in to hear how AI is changing the game — and how your club can stay ahead of the curve. https://www.playmore.golf/ https://eddiebullockgolf.com/ https://www.albatross.digital/ https://www.therevenueclub.co.uk/ https://www.59club.com/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

Tony Adams, consultant and founder of Hospitality In Golf, dives into enhancing food and beverage operations in golf clubs. He shares insights on modernizing menus, using local ingredients, and the importance of continuous staff training. Adams emphasizes the need to create inviting atmospheres and cater to diverse dietary needs while maintaining compliance with regulations. He also highlights what top golf clubs do right, showcasing how attention to detail and a strong hospitality culture can dramatically elevate the overall member experience.

Leighton recently sat down with renowned golf course architect Thad Layton at the stunning Walton Heath Golf Club to discuss Thad’s career journey, design philosophy, and his exciting transition into launching his own design firm. The conversation then dove into one of the most important and evolving topics in modern golf architecture: the "design and build" method vs. the traditional "design and contractor" approach. With more courses opting for design and build, Thad shares valuable insights into why this method is gaining traction—particularly its ability to foster creativity, ensure design intent is preserved on-site, and deliver a more unified final product. Thad also shared highlights from his current tour through the south of England, where he’s been playing many of the region’s iconic heathland and links courses. He reflects on what he's learned from these historic sites and how they continue to shape his perspective as a designer. To cap things off, Leighton and Thad took to the course themselves to experience Walton Heath firsthand—one of the finest examples of heathland golf and a source of inspiration in its own right.   A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro Check them out here!   https://thadlaytondesign.com/ https://www.instagram.com/thad.layton/   https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk   Sign up to our Newsletter here

In this episode - following a catch up between Eddie & Leighton, Eddie welcomes Joe Kelly, Head of Membership Support at the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) of Great Britain & Ireland. Joe shares valuable insights into how the role of PGA Members is expanding far beyond the traditional golf professional. As more clubs reassess their operations and restructure their business models, Joe discusses the wide-ranging skill sets that modern PGA Members are acquiring—spanning from business management and coaching to customer service and digital engagement. He provides real-world examples of how clubs can make the most of their PGA professionals and what to look out for during periods of change. Joe also offers key advice for aspiring PGA Members, highlighting the qualities and competencies that will prepare them for success in a rapidly evolving golf industry. Highlights include: The growing diversity in roles and responsibilities of PGA Members How clubs can adapt their structures to thrive in a changing environment Tips for current and future PGA professionals to stay ahead of the curve Whether you're a club manager, PGA pro, or involved in golf operations, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways.   https://www.pga.info/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

Panel Discussion Series Number 2 - Membership We’re excited to bring back our popular Panel Discussion episodes — and this time, it’s a conversation on membership at Golf Clubs. This Episode’s Panelists: Alastair Siclair - PlayMore Golf Eddie Bullock – Eddie Bullock Golf Consultancy James Wilkinson – Albatross Digital Nick Eden – The Revenue Club Matt Roberts – 59 Club In this insightful panel discussion, we dive deep into the changing landscape of club memberships. Our experts explore what today’s members truly value, how successful clubs are adapting, and what sets thriving communities apart from those that are struggling. Key Topics Covered: The Evolution of Memberships: How expectations and engagement have changed over time. Crafting the Right Offer: What modern members are looking for and how clubs can deliver. Understanding Your Members: Using data, feedback, and real connection to meet members' needs. Building Loyalty & Community: Proven strategies for fostering long-term commitment and a sense of belonging. There's plenty more, so tune in, take notes, and stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving golf industry! Coming Up: August – The role of AI in golf   https://www.playmore.golf/ https://eddiebullockgolf.com/ https://www.albatross.digital/ https://www.therevenueclub.co.uk/ https://www.59club.com/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

In this insightful episode, we’re joined by Kate Torgersen and Monina Gilbey of Torgersen Gilbey, who share how their combined expertise in environmental planning and sustainability strategy led to the formation of their consultancy. Together, they support golf clubs through environmental audits, biodiversity planning, and strategic sustainability communication. Kate breaks down what’s involved in an environmental audit or vegetation management plan, and the importance of native planting for course health and playability. Monina explains biodiversity in the golf context, and how courses can become thriving ecological spaces. The duo highlights projects underway in Australia, the wider benefits these initiatives bring beyond the course, and the importance of improving how golf communicates its sustainability efforts. They also explore what golf can learn from other sectors and how these practices can scale globally—both within and beyond the sport. https://www.torgersengilbey.com.au/ Check out Kate and Monina on LinkedIn https://www.glenelggolf.com/cms/   https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com   A big thanks to our Partner - Toro Click here for more details   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk   Sign up to our Newsletter here