Hole 8
Sponsored By: Stapleton International
The 8th is the first in a run of four marvellous holes in which Colt used the ravines to spectacular effect. Immediately in front of the tee is a deep ravine through which the Brancepeth Beck flows and the original bridge can be seen at stream level. Using this bridge involved a steep descent from the tee and an equally steep ascent to the fairway but mercifully a new bridge was built in 1928 by a Mr Greener who was a member of the Club.
The cost of the new bridge, a picturesque timber trestle structure, was £124 and, crossing the ravine at high level, it has saved countless golfers a great deal of energy. When the Durham Light Infantry was based at Brancepeth the Army played an important part in the maintenance of the bridge, the work being regarded as good practical training.
The ravine crosses the hole diagonally and modest hitters must play it as a dog-leg. Longer hitters can play directly towards the flag but even so are faced with a tricky shot to a long narrow green. Good club selection is essential and, although short, the 8th is an excellent par 4.
