Having recently returned from overseas, I was invited to play at Effingham by a friend of mine who is a member of the club last week, and what a joy it was. Since I last played at Effingham some 6 or 7 years ago, the course has undergone significant changes with all 18 holes transformed with new bunkers which look incredible. Although the bunkers on 6 of the holes are currently out of play having only been installed at the end of last year, it is clear to see that Effingham will be on the bucket list of many golfers in the Spring when the “new” course is opened. From start to finish, each hole brings about challenges that can be enjoyed/endured by golfers of all levels. The positioning of the bunkers has been carefully thought out and I imagine the greens, with their humps and bumps, will test even the lowest of handicap golfer when they are in their peak condition during the warmer months. Having played in wet conditions overhead, the course has rightly gained a reputation for being one of the best draining inland courses in South East England. Although cloudy when I played, I still remember the views across London that can be had on a clear day with the high-rise buildings of the City, The Wembley Arch and planes heading in and out of Heathrow easily seen in the distance. The fairways and greens are in superb condition for the time of year and credit must be given where it’s due. Effingham has undoubtedly seen a large investment of time and money to bring about such positive change and I can’t wait to play here again, if invited.