COUNCILLORS have agreed to take over a golf course which closed suddenly last month.

As reported, East Dorset District Council's cabinet was asked to give the go-ahead for officers to take on the Moors Valley Golf Course following its 'unforeseeable' closure.

The course is owned by the council. It was leased and run by Mack Trading, which ceased trading on October 3.

Councillor Ray Bryan, cabinet portfolio holder for performance, said the authority has worked closely with the insolvency practitioner to ensure a "satisfactory and timely solution".

“I am very pleased that the council has been able to react so quickly and effectively to this totally unforeseen occurrence," Cllr Bryan said.

“We would like to thank local golfers for their patience and understanding through this uncertain time and are pleased we are able to offer a resolution swiftly.”

Council officials say Mack Trading's financial troubles could not have been foreseen as the company regularly paid the quarterly rent due and had not discussed any concerns.

Options considered by the council included shutting the site altogether. However, maintenance of the 200-acre course would still cost some £50,000 every year.

As a result, plans to run the course in-house were unanimously backed by cabinet members during a meeting on October 31.

The club's booking line, 01425 479776, is now in use again, and the course reopened to golf season ticket holders on Tuesday.

It will open to customers wishing to pay and play from 9am on Monday, November 12.

The council will also introduce 'health and wellbeing activities' at the course.

Representatives from clubs and societies who wish to hold events at the club are asked to email golf@moors-valley.co.uk