Dogs on walkies ‘desecrating’ Fife golf course

Leven Links Golf Course has been closed in response to the coronavirus pandemic, but, while the golf has stopped, the course has become a hotspot for local dog walkers.

Leven Thistle Golf Club vice captain and committee member Alan Lee said that the course, which costs more than £100,000 to maintain every year, has been damaged, with dog fouling a particular issue.

The greens on the course have also been damaged by walkers.

“There seems to be more people walking around than ever,” Mr Lee told the Mail.

“We are reducing the amount of maintenance, but the staff are still being hampered by people walking around.

“Walking dogs over the course shows a disregard for the course.

“It’s disappointing to be sat at home while others do not share the respect and consideration by venturing out to places they never normally went, and letting their dogs desecrate the course.

“Our greenkeepers work hard and present us with an excellent course while being exposed to this on the course and in our bins – it’s not their job.”

David Gray, course manager, said the volume of walkers and dog walkers means that is not always safe to maintain the course.

Alan highlighted that there is a “fantastic” beach not far away, as well as various walks, such as through Silverburn Park.

“There’s plenty of parks, paths, places to go,” he said.

“You’re supposed to be walking around where you stay. People need to take some responsibility.”