TIME TO APPLY FOR COMMUNITY GRANTS  

ROYAL Dornoch is offering a wide range of charities, organisations and individuals an opportunity to apply for grant support. 

In recent years the golf club has supported dozens of successful applicants within the IV25 postcode. 

The Council of Management has approved an increase on previous years from the club’s visitor income to reflect the number of applications anticipated, and grants of up to £500 to back initiatives which will benefit the local community and the Dornoch hinterland. 

The pay outs are in addition to the £50,000 windfall enjoyed annually by the town’s Common Good Fund which was part of the long term lease agreed for natural links land which is home to the world famous Championship Course. 

General manager Neil Hampton explained that support for the neighbouring communities of Dornoch and Embo had formed an integral part of the agreement which encouraged the club to press ahead with plans for the new £13.9 million clubhouse which opened in December, and the blueprint for a third course and enhanced practice facilities. 

“As a club counting down to our 150th anniversary next year, our local roots in the community are deep and keenly preserved,” he said. 

“Golf has been the key economic driver here for decades. 

“Thanks to the volume of visiting golfers drawn to the town to enjoy the renowned Royal Dornoch experience, the club is delighted to be in a position to support all manner of projects which enhance the quality of life in the area. 

“The new clubhouse has already been warmly welcomed by members and townsfolk who are welcome to make use of the wonderful facilities which have been created here.” 

Last year more than 30 Community Fund grants were distributed, with each application assessed on its own merits. 

“We have ensured the application process is simple and straightforward. The forms are easy to complete and are available now from the office within the new clubhouse. 

“We ask for the basic details of what a grant would be used for and take it from there.” 

Completed application forms should be returned to the Community Fund, Royal Dornoch Golf Club, Golf Road, Dornoch IV25 3LW or by emailing rdgc@royaldornoch.com by Friday, March 13.