Whittington Heath Golf Club contents auction before demolition

WHGC are in the process of moving to a new clubhouse as the existing one is due for demolition.

Richard Winterton Auctioneers is conducting the sale of around 180 lots from the old clubhouse adjacent to Tamworth Road, which will take place online-only via The Lichfield Auction Centre from 10.30am on September 24.

Due to Covid-19, viewing at the clubhouse is strictly by appointment only on September 23 from 10am-4pm – to book, call Emma at Whittington Heath Golf Club on 01543 432317.There will be no viewing on day of sale.

The 182 lots include: around 40 honours boards featuring the names of champion golfers throughout the club’s history, tee markers for all 18 holes, with three markers per hole all colour-coded and marked Whittington Heath Golf Club, and cups, bowls, shields and presentation glassware.

The sale also features an array of golfing pictures, photographs and prints, the club’s full-size snooker table and the early 20th century snooker scoreboard.

More than 200 lockers from the changing rooms are to be auctioned off in banks.

Also for sale is the clubhouse bar – front and back – plus the electric shutters and bell, club chairs, candlesticks, catering equipment including fridges, coolers and work tables, and point-of-sale tills with screens and printers.

Even the railings from the top of the building – a legacy from its beginnings as a race stand – are included in the auction.

Post-sale collections must be completed by October 2, and are also strictly by appointment only – contact Emma on 01543 432317.

“This move is one of the most significant events in the club’s history,” said general manager Colin White.

“Just as we are incredibly proud of the new clubhouse and the security it brings for the club, we are so proud of the history of Whittington Heath Golf Club.

“This is a unique opportunity to share that history with members as we step towards a bright future.”

The club originated in 1886 with a few holes set out on Whittington Heath, adjacent to Whittington Barracks.

The Tamworth Road grandstand was initially built for equestrian racing between 1840 and 1875 and was previously a residential home for old soldiers.

It has served as the clubhouse since 1957 and was purchased from the Ministry of Defence in 1994.

Auctioneer Richard Winterton said: “This sale is a unique opportunity to own a piece of important Lichfield golfing history, from honour boards and tee markers to pictures, memorabilia and even the clubhouse bell.

“It’s a wonderful legacy from a building which has served as the clubhouse for more than six decades and this is the perfect time to celebrate that heritage during a pivotal moment for this much-loved club.”

The catalogue is online now and available to view via www.richardwinterton.co.uk/auction_dates.htm.

For information about the sale, call 01543 251081 or email office@richardwinterton.co.uk.