Presentation
On Thursday 22nd November the nieces and nephews of the late Alexander Stuart made a presentation to the club of a watercolour by William Lees, depicting the 18th green and clubhouse. Alex Stuart, a member for 54 years, was remembered by our club members and family, many who had travelled some distance to attend. The picture will be available for viewing shortly and will be opposite the bar in the lounge. The Council thanks the Stuart family for this generous donation to the club.
Clubhouse
The present clubhouse building was originally a 'Stable Block' it was opened as the new clubhouse on 6th June 1914 The club shouldered the £250 cost of furnishings and the fitting of lockers. The new clubhouse got its first telephone installed in 1918.
clubhouse opening 1914
A £6,331 extension was opened by Colin Dyer, the Hon Vice President of Cayzer Irvine & Co Ltd, on December 11, 1962 .In 1967, the redevelopment of five years earlier was considered by the council, to have been insufficient in meeting the growing demands of the Ralston membership and its social activities. Another EGM approved a phase of improvements to the lounge. The £16,000 required was partly funded by a members levy. The new development was opened on April 11th 1970. On April 17, 1991 The members agreed to purchase the course and clubhouse for £465,000 plus costs. In order to assist with the finance of the transaction, all gentleman members were to provide an interest free loan of £650 and the ladies £350.
Clubhouse circa 1970
.In 1995,
the committee took a bold look into the future. With interest in golf
on the increase, Ralston wanted to be able to cater for the demands of
the new millennium. Three major phases of development were mapped out,
with the intention of completing by the centenary date of April 30, 2004.This
began with the renewal of roofs and windows, the replacement of gas,
electricity and water supplies and the stripping walls to original stonework
to eradicate rot problems. Lockers, toilets and shower areas were completely
revamped.
On the ground floor, the kitchen, bar and dining areas were all rebuilt
to substantially increase their capacity for entertaining members and
guests - whether that be for après golf relaxation or a major
celebratory event.