Golf blaze shock

A TERRIFYING fire caused disruption at Lochmaben Golf Club this week.

Emergency services were called to the Castlehill Gate club on Wednesday night following reports that a golf buggy had burst into flames.

The blaze quickly took hold, spreading to cause some damage to the exterior of the building, alongside minor internal damage.

Footage of firefighters tackling the intense flames circulated widely on social media shortly after the incident.

Thanks to the prompt response of the fire brigade, the flames were fully extinguished before spreading further.

General manager Donna Wilson yesterday confirmed the relief felt across the community, stating that thankfully no one was injured during the ordeal.

However, the club – who are celebrating their centenary year – has faced logistical challenges as a result of the fire, which knocked out all electricity, telephone and internet networks.

The main clubhouse remained closed yesterday to allow contractors and insurers to safely assess the full extent of the destruction.

Despite the central building being cordoned off, the course itself – alongside the changing rooms and toilets – remained fully open to members and visitors.

In her statement, Mrs Wilson said: “There was an incident at the clubhouse on Wednesday evening. A buggy caught fire, causing damage to the outside of the building and some minor internal damage.

“The fire brigade attended promptly and the fire has been fully extinguished. Thankfully, nobody was injured.

“As a result, the clubhouse was closed on Thursday (yesterday). The toilets and changing rooms will remain accessible and the course will be open as normal.

“At this stage we are assessing the full extent of the damage alongside our insurers and contractors.

“We appreciate your patience and understanding whilst we work to restore normal operations as quickly as possible.

“As we currently have no electricity, telephone or internet services, our ability to respond to enquiries will be extremely limited until these services have been restored.

“Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Thank you for your understanding and continued support.”

Local members have expressed their dismay but remain determined to see the club bounce back.

Lady captain Georgia Bell also shared her thoughts and said: “Absolutely heartbreaking to see. So much hard work, time, and effort has gone into this place, but I’m very thankful that nobody was hurt. The team at Lochmaben Golf Club will pull together, get it sorted, and have it back up and running in no time!”