West Sussex golf club could close after equipment thefts

Horton Golf Club, Henfield, West Sussex, could close after all its course machinery was stolen in two night-time raids.

Probably the only golf club in the country that has been completely built by its members and is wholly maintained by them, the devastating thefts have left the 80 members distraught.

Two weeks ago thieves entered the club grounds via Henfield Business Park and stole their Massey Ferguson tractor.

Then on the night of Bank Holiday Sunday, raiders entered the club's grounds via Oreham Common (finding the Business Park locked) and stole nearly every bit of equipment that the club had in their shed (see below for a list of machinery).

Each piece of equipment was dragged or carried right across the course, and across Oreham Common. Even with four people, the theft must have taken a good amount of time and someone may have seen a vehicle parked on Oreham Common or a group of men acting suspiciously.

If you did see anything, or you have been offered items in the last few weeks that match the items listed please contact the club (01273 493993) or the police.

Horton Golf Club has about 80 members, most of whom live locally. Because the members undertake all course maintenance and improvements themselves, and maintain the second-hand equipment which the club depends on, there is a wonderful community spirit.

Says chairman Martin Tooth: "With very limited funds, the loss of so much equipment - and the real possibility that Horsham District Council may charge us rates this year - we face the fact that the club could be forced to close.

"So if anyone can help us with information about the theft, or details of any equipment you may have been offered, then we will be very grateful."

*If you are a contractor or groundsman with some equipment that you have and no longer need or would accept a modest sum for, then please contact Martin Tooth on 01273 493993.


THE STOLEN MACHINERY

1x Massey Ferguson 135 tractor reg no XYD 297N chassis no 440851
1x 12.5 hp Craftsman sit-on mower in grey with rear discharge
1x 7.5 hp Lazer sit-on mower in red with side discharge
1x National 68 inch triplex mower white with green chassis
2x Honda irrigation pumps with two inch outlets
1x air compressor: Sealy electric
1x Agri Fab 175lb Poly-pro drop spreader to fit sit-on mower in black
1x 22 inch Honda petrol mower
1x leaf blower 2 stroke petrol made by Ryobi
2x strimmers (petrol)
1x petrol Briggs & Stratton scarifier in yellow (may be Sisis branded)
1x large steel tool chest complete with tools (spanners, screwdrivers etc)