Vandalism to eight greens closes golf course

A public golf course has been forced to close after eight of its greens were vandalised.

Hertfordshire Police said it was investigating "a criminal damage incident" which happened between 18:00 GMT on Wednesday and 06:00 on Thursday at Cheshunt Park Golf Course.

In a statement, Broxbourne Borough Council, which owns the course, said those responsible had broken in through the railings.

The authority said "significant damage" had been caused on the 3rd, 4th, 5th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th and 15th holes. The circular cuts appear to have been made by people on quad bikes.

Sgt Chris Fisher from the Neighbourhood Policing Team appealed to anyone who may have noticed anything suspicious in and around the area of Park Lane.

"I want to reassure the community of Cheshunt that we are investigating reports made that extensive damage has been caused."

Hertfordshire Police added that the grass had reportedly been damaged by a quad bike.

The course, which is run by contractor Be.Broxbourne, has closed for repairs to be carried out.

If these go as planned, it will partially reopen on Saturday with 11 of its 18 holes in play.

Repairs will continue next week to bring the remaining holes back into use as quickly as possible.

The council said that while the course was running at reduced capacity, all pay and play golfers would be charged the twilight rate throughout the day.

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