DORSET’S largest golf complex is pledging further investment this year after spending £250,000 over three years.

Canford Magna Golf Club and Academy has invested the money in enhancing its three courses and club facilities.

It expects to invest up to £100,000 this year.

The improvements to the complex near Wimborne over the last three years have included a major refurbishment of its restaurants, which is enjoyed by visitors and a 1,000-strong membership.

Managing director Stuart Hudson said: “No one can deny that both the economic and environmental climate has severely damaged the expansion of golfing in the UK. “We have weathered the storm well, or should I say storms, and are now budgeting to purchase extra machinery, including the latest Top Dresser, to help keep our greens in great condition. “We won’t let our high standards slip.”

He said the 45-hole, 350-acre complex near Wimborne had a steady membership who enjoy playing all year round.

It also has a popular weekend Canford Kids Academy and all three of its courses are built to championship specifications with USGA greens.

The club even offers computerised coaching sessions and an artificial practise green.

Mr Hudson added: “We have over 50 staff.

“There cannot be many clubs that have five pros, five chefs as well as 12 green keeping staff. “I feel investment is the only way forward.”

The winter’s prolonged rainfall has tested the golf industry.

Playgolf Bournemouth, which ran the golf complex at the town’s Riverside area, was liquidated last month so its parent company could take over the business.

It blamed the flooding of the River Stour for making its course unplayable from Christmas onwards but stressed the centre would continue to operate as normal.