GOLFERS said today they were "gutted and disgusted" after being told their club is to close at the end of the year.

Cocksford Golf Club, at Stutton, near Tadcaster, which opened in 1989, is closing after owner Andrew Watkinson sold the course and part of the premises.

Mr Watkinson said the two "independent parties" who bought the land and clubhouse did not want to continue the golf club business.

One of the buyers has applied to Selby District Council for permission to convert the clubhouse and changing rooms into two apartments.

It is understood that the purchaser of the land comprising the back nine holes plans to use it to exercise her horse.

Furious club members said today they were not giving up the fight.

Members committee chairman Phil Ambler said they planned to hold a meeting next Tuesday to discuss their next move to keep the golf club open.

He said they were also in touch with the council to complain about the loss of a valuable and well-used community facility, and to try to get the change of use stopped.

Mr Ambler said the 350-member club had a thriving junior section, with more than 40 youngsters.

He said: "The closure would be a big loss to the local community, affecting hundreds of people.

"Mr Watkinson has declined to meet the committee or allow us to make an offer for the club.

"He told us to remove our equipment by December 31, otherwise we would be unable to gain access to the course."

Mr Watkinson said: "I'm also very sad it is closing after 14 years, but it was offered to members and they didn't pursue it. It's a business decision and life goes on."

He said that the woman who had bought the land did not take vacant possession until January 1 and it was up to her what she did with the land.

He said: "The job is all wrapped up and everything has been done legally."

Updated: 10:44 Friday, October 10, 2003