We are delighted to have held our fourth annual Nature Links seminar on 8 October at East Brighton Golf Club, bringing together general managers, chairs, greenkeepers and nature recovery experts to discuss best practice and opportunities for biodiversity in Sussex golf clubs. 50 people attended, including 15 golf clubs and teams of greenkeepers.

The important work underway in Sussex golf for nature recovery has been recognised in the West and East Sussex Local Nature Recovery Strategies. The authors of the strategy were present to discuss priority actions and species, alongside presentations from England Golf and the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association on sustainability and action for wildlife.

There was considerable focus on water, in terms of usage, storage and also custodianship of water bodies in the context of climate change and nature loss. South East Water and Southern Water made presentations on support available and participants were also briefed by the Ouse and Adur Rivers Trust on opportunities for nature recovery through good river, stream and pond management.

Clubs were also presented with opportunities for funding from the South Downs National Park Trust and enjoyed a talk on creating habitat for reptiles and amphibians. Participants were even treated to a first play of the Greenkeepers Song written and performed by East Brighton Golf Club board member Pete Durgerian and all enjoyed a tour of the course including their extensive chalk grassland recovery project.

Our sincere thanks to East Brighton Golf Club and all who attended this successful gathering of committed people taking action for nature and sustainability in Sussex golf.  As a participant from Rye golf club said, this is really important work.