Harry Spooner

The club had a small halfway hut called Dacombes’ Den that had been converted from a shelter and made into a refreshment hut. The facilities required refurbishment and Harry Spooner thought that a purpose built halfway hut would be a great boon to the members.

Dacombe’s Den

The Opening of Dacombe’s Den

The halfway hut was conceived by Harry Spooner as his contribution to the club during his year as Captain (2002). Harry felt that he would like to do something for the members that would remain after his term in office.

The Management Committee agreed to support the enterprise providing there was no cost to the club, any money to come from fund-raising activities that the Captain might organise.  A team of volunteers was assembled, by Harry, from the members of the club and a set of plans was drawn up by Roger Wildig (currently a member of Senior Men’s Section).

The team consisted of Trevor White a builder (who took 2 weeks holiday to help), Graham Humby (project manager and general dogsbody), Dave Chalmers (plumber who managed to scrounge much of the plumbing materials) and Brian Harvey, currently a member of Senior Men’s Section, (who carried out all the groundwork).

As with all projects, problems arose. For instance the electricity supply to Dacombes’ Den was woefully inadequate and a new power supply had to be taken from the clubhouse across the 1st, 2nd and 3rd fairways to the hut. Fortunately Alan Feltham (Captain 2006) proved to be a great help and with his expertise and work, a new electricity supply was provided.

Taking a break at Spooners

To top off the hut the weathervane, in the form of a silhouette of HMS Vanguard, that had been on Dacombes Den, was overhauled and mounted on the roof of Spooners. Since its opening in September 2002 the hut has proved to be an important feature of the course, much appreciated by members and visitors alike.

Ted Leggett’s Weathervane and Plaque

Patio added to Spooners 2021

From Corhampton Chronicle April 2023 Issue No.33