Nailcote News

Paul Lawrie and Alsion Nicholas to play 2012 British Par 3 Championship

2012-02-03T07:32:00.000-08:00

We are delighted to announce that both Paul Lawrie and Alison Nicholas will be competing in this years British Par 3 Championship.

Paul turned pro in 1986 and joined the European tour in 1992 having 10 professional wins during a long and distinguished career. He is best known though for winning the 1999 Open Championship at Carnoustie.

Going into the final day he trailed the leader, Jean van de Velde by 10 shots, still the record for the biggest final round comeback on the PGA Tour. But this was the infamous round when Van de Velde went paddling on the final hole and blew a three shot lead. Paul won the subsequent four hole play-off to write his name in the Open Championship record books.

We are really looking forward to Paul taking on the British Par 3 Championship this year and are sure he will be a big hit with all the spectators.

Alison's playing career in golf spanned from 1980 to 2004 claiming 18 Professional titles and establishing herself as one of Europe's most successful players. She has also represented Europe six times in the Solheim Cup, with memorable victories in 1992, 2000 and 2003. Alison has also been heavily involved in role of Vice Captain (2003 & 2005) and Captain (2009 & 2011).

The highlight of Alison's playing career was when she was crowned 1997 US Open Champion, holding off golfing legend Nancy Lopez to win her first major. Following this success Alison was awarded the MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours List for services to women's golf.

We are sure that Alison will be a fantastic competitor at the 2012 British Par 3 Championship and are really excited to see her pit her skills against our challenging course.

Bride of the Year 2013

2012-01-24T03:09:00.000-08:00

February 9th sees the launch event for our Bride of the Year 2013 and the announcement of who our Bride of the Year for 2012 will be.

Situated in the beautiful Warwickshire countryside but within easy reach of Solihull and Birmingham, Nailcote Hall is a wonderful place to celebrate your wedding and in 2013 our Nailcote Hall Bride of the Year could be you. All couples booking a wedding reception before the end of January 2013 will be entered into the draw to be held at our special event in February. One lucky couple will be drawn at random and will win a free wedding reception worth around £5000. What a fantastic way to start your married life.

Perfect Brides wedding fayre - February 26th

2012-01-24T01:34:00.000-08:00

Nailcote Hall will be hosting the Perfect Brides wedding Fayre on February 26th from 11am - 4pm.

Fashion show - FREE ENTRY

50 of the best regional exhibitors

Free prize draw at 3.30

Pre register at info@perfectbrides.co.uk

To exhibit call 07912435570

New chef brings his expertise to Nailcote’s Oak Room

2011-12-07T02:14:00.000-08:00

When a talented new chef arrives at an established restaurant, there is a tricky balancing act between maintaining the old favourites and introducing something newand exciting. Thankfully, Neil Peers at the Oak Room Restaurant, Nailcote Hall, has succeeded.

Nailcote Hall Hotel has long held a reputation for excellence when it comes to serving traditional cuisine.

The fine dining restaurant The Oak Room, which is in the 17th century manor part of the country house hotel near Berkswell, is a gorgeous venue.

Opulent and rich, with its dark beams, formal table settings and heavy curtains, it is an intimate dining room that is perfect for special occasions. Despite its formal and traditional appearance, however, it is a relaxed and unpretentious restaurant. Regulars love the flambés, Steak Diane, Crèpes Suzettes and home baked soufflés and you will rarely find an empty table when Sunday lunch is served because its roast beef is difficult to beat.

Since Neil Peers arrived as head chef, he has been careful to keep regular diners happy by maintaining the old favourites, but he has breathed new life into the Oak Room thanks to a new menu he has devised with owner Rick Cressman.

Neil’s flair and expertise is more than apparent.

Alongside the flambés and steaks, Neil has introduced an array of fabulous new dishes that will delight those diners who love the more exotic and modern. We were very keen to see how he has transformed the restaurant.

Before we caught sight of this exciting, new menu, we enjoyed a pre-dinner drink in the aptly named Celebrity Bar.

The walls are adorned with photographs of the many celebrities who have enjoyed the hospitality of Nailcote Hall, including sportsmen and women who have competed in their very successful annual Par 3 British Farmfoods Golf Championship, which is held here every August.

You can’t help but feel at home here. As we enjoyed our drinks, we noticed how warmly the guests are treated by the friendly staff. Many of them have worked there since owner Rick Cressman bought the hotel 20 years ago and the efficiency of Skender and Carole is legendary.

We moved to the dining room and were delighted that the starters gave us an indication of the quality of food we could expect from the Oak Room.

The choice was inventive, with starters including a velouté of cauliflower served with a curry dumpling; a duo of rabbit, with carrots three ways; a fillet of red mullet served with shaved fennel and radish salad, crab cake and tomato essence.

We opted for the superb baked local goat’s cheese, which was served with golden beetroot salad and smoked aubergine purée, and seared king scallops served with confit pork belly and pea purée. It was fabulous. The baked goat’s cheese was cooked to perfection, while with the large scallops were beautifully cooked. In each dish, the combination of flavours was judged very well.

For our main course we were also spoilt for choice. Diners who love the drama of a traditional steak Diane flambéed at their table will be assured to know they can still expect the highest standards of this classic dish that is served with sautéed garlic, wild mushrooms, diced shallots and tomato concasse. For those who prefer simpler food, the whole grilled Cornish sole served with lemon and caper butter is a good choice, while vegetarians are also well catered for with the intriguing sounding roasted globe artichoke served with scented tagliatelle, poached duck egg and choron sauce.

We chose seared fillet of brill, which was served with crayfish ravioli, samphire and saffron foam, and the contra fillet of Aberdeenshire beef that was accompanied by potato terrine, girolles purée, wilted autumn greens and horseradish foam.

We certainly made the right choices. Neil Peers adventurous streak has resulted in dishes that are packed with flavour and unusual combinations.

The desserts are also very tempting. Again, traditionalists can enjoy the very fine crèpes suzettes that are flambéed at your table, but those looking for something lighter could opt for the light strawberry and Champagne Jelly with a creamy vanilla custard, strawberry espuma and served with black pepper meringues.

I’d recommend keeping room for the desserts - especially the dark chocolate tart that is served with caramelized hazelnut ice cream or the rhubarb crumble soufflé, which is one of chef’s specialities and is served with stem ginger ice cream and crème Anglaise. Delicious.

For those of you who have not visited Nailcote Hall’s Oak Room Restaurant in a while, do make a return visit. Neil Peers has created an excellent menu to suit all tastes – from the ultra traditional dishes to more modern plates with some exciting twists. You will not be disappointed.

by Karen Jones - Originally published in touchbase magazine www.touchbasemagazine.com/

X-Factor star returns to Nailcote Hall

2011-10-25T03:52:00.000-07:00

We are delighted to have Andy Abraham, star of X-Factor, back to Nailcote Hall for our ‘Black Tie’ charity party on 19th November 2011. This spectacular event promises to be a wonderful night out and all in support of a great cause - Children In Need.

Children in Need

Children in Need provide grants to projects in the UK which focus on children and young people who are disadvantaged. They support small and large organisations which empower children and extend their life choices in all corners of the UK. A great cause which I'm sure we can all get behind.

Andy Abraham

In 2005 Andy came 2nd in the biggest light entertainment show on TV; X Factor in which he wowed the judging panel and audiences across the nation with this soulful voice and winning personality.

Since then, Andy’s career has gone from strength to strength as he continues to amaze audiences with this dazzling stage presence. In 2009, Andy embarked on a sell out 54 date UK tour as well as performing at a number of prestigious events. These included performing at the Muhammad Ali Charity event, Nelson Mandela Charity evening and joined Beverly Knight on stage at England’s football star Theo Walcott’s 21st birthday party.

With raw talent, a captivating personality and stage presence to enthral and mesmerise; it’s no wonder Andy has gone on to become a true star and one of the UK’s most successful soul singers. Andy was recently a big hit when he performed during the evening celebrations at the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship here at Nailcote Hall.

This is definitely a night not to be missed and a chance to support a very worthwhile cause. Why not book your place now!

More changes for the Par 3 Championship course

2011-10-19T02:58:00.000-07:00

Despite being recognised as the best short course in the UK, Nailcote Hall has started work on a number of changes which will make the host venue of the Farmfoods’ British Par 3 Championship even more challenging in 2012.

In fact only the 6th and 9th holes will escape the attention of Nailcote’s owner and course designer, Rick Cressman who commented, “It was a great championship this year and more and more golfers, societies and corporate users are coming to play the course, so I want to be sure that the course is as challenging and entertaining to play as possible”.

The longest hole, the 7th has just had the green extended by about 6 yars, allowing an additional but very tricky pin position.

To attack it, players will have to flight their shot over 125 yards of water and the large, “St Andrews” style bunker if they are brave enough to attack the flag.

The 8th hole is actually having the green enlarged which Rick thinks will make it a little fairer, but again it also provides for an extra pin position alongside water and bunker protection which will be hard to attack without taking some extra risk.

Behind the 5th green, new mounding has been put in place which gives the hole and setting of the green a more enclosed look and means, “the bunkers at the back of the green will be more visible and styled like the bunkers at the back of Augusta’s famous 12th !

A new bunker and shaping to the back of the 4th green is just about to start and extra sprinkler heads are being placed on the 4th, 5th and 8th to give a more consistent quality of surface in dry conditions.

But the big project which will transform a large part of the course and have a major visual impact when players visit Nailcote, is the development of a new water feature in front of both the 2nd and 3rd holes.

This will result in the existing two front bunkers on the 3rd being removed and the water will come to within 2/3 yards of the edge of the green. “From 125 yards, I don’t think this will be the second easiest hole on the course any more” ! said Rick. “But it will look absolutely stunning from the tee and great for spectators to view at the Farmfoods’ British Par 3 Championship which is set for August 7th-0th next year. I can’t wait to see the Pro’s reactions.”

The course will be open throughout the winter so players can enjoy the course and see what is happening too.

Sunshine and stars brings record crowds to Nailcote Hall

2011-10-18T08:53:00.000-07:00

The sun shone and the crowds came in record numbers to enjoy the top golfers and celebrities competing in this year’s Farmfoods’ British Par 3 Championship.

The event was hosted again by Ryder Cup captain and double major champion, Tony Jacklin CBE who flew in from Florida with his great friend, Larry Laoretti, 1992 US Senior Open champion and the event’s first ever USA competitor.

Armed with his trademark cigar, as well as his clubs, Larry charmed all the spectators with his sense of fun and style. The first American amateur team to play also joined in all the fun for the four days play – the Brandenburg team led by Lee Brandenburg from California was ably assisted by Doug Breen and Frank Christian from Augusta who along with his father has photographed every Masters since it started in 1934 – a year after the first Par 3 Short Course Championship !

Past Ryder Cup and current Senior Tour player, Gordon J Brand won the Celebrity/Pro title on the first day while the very colourful Ian Halliwell’s team “The Social Golfer” assisted by Grand National winner, Bob Champion won the team event.

The Black Tie Gala dinner which followed saw Tony Jacklin singing after swinging! And Laura White – X Factor finalist and the evergreen Barron Knights with Pete Langford entertained the 250 guests with a terrific Rock ‘n’ Roll show.

After the first days warm up the serious business of the 36 hole PRO-AM started on Wednesday morning – at 7.20 a.m! And right from the start the youngest competitor 10 year old Harry Fearn made quite an impression, birdieing the first hole by chipping in from the bunker to the delight of his professional partner – 2006 Par 3 champion- Shaun P Webster.

Without a doubt the array of professionals joining the Championship was the best the event has ever seen with past Ryder Cup stars Maurice Bembridge, Tommy Horton, Malcolm Gregson and Gordon J Brand, being well supported by European Senior Tour players Carl Mason, Mark Mouland, Gary Wolstenholme, Tony Johnstone Andrew Sherborne and Dennis Durnian in their hunt for the title.

With a record £15,000 going to the winner and £5,000 to the over 60’s Super Senior winner, competition was sure to be fierce. Younger stars from the European Tour who were chasing the big prize included Graeme Storm, Gary Boyd, Scott Jamieson, Paul Broadhurst, Danny Willett, Simon Wakefield, David Dixon and Seve Benson.

At the end of the first day’s play, the clubhouse lead was held jointly by No 1 European Tour Senior star, Carl Mason and current European Tour player, David Dixon at 3 under par – a very good score in the tricky breezy conditions.

Another bright day brought the crowds out in force to see the conclusion of the main championship. Jasper Carrott who was playing with Paul Broadhurst and Peter Schmeichel who was paired with 2010 champion, Richard O’Hanlon were hoping their partners could make strong moves up the leaderboard but they both had to cope with finishing 14^th.

But a couple of players were playing well and one in particular Andrew Sherborne was charging up the leaderboard. Starting at 1 over par he reached 5 under par with two holes to play. Then successive bogeys dropped him back to finish at 3 under par – but with the lead in the clubhouse. Carl Mason and David Dixon had been slipping back during their rounds but Simon Wakefield and Seve Benson were pushing the new leader. Simon birdied the 35^th hole to get to 2 under par and needed a birdie at the last to force a play-off !

But, under pressure his tee shot failed to find the green and a bogey 4 saw him finish at 1 under par for 2^nd place, behind the champion – Andrew Sherborne. Seve Benson finished on level par for 3^rd place – a very creditable effort on his first visit to Nailcote.

Seve enjoyed a consolation success in winning the Better Ball Pairs title and the Halliwell Cup with partner, Jason Preston. The runners up were Shaun Webster and his 10 year old partner, Harry Fearn !

After all the excitement of the main event, it was back to another Celebrity/Am team day on the final day with more celebrity players joining in, including Bobby Davro, Anton du Beke, James Jordan, Ron Atkinson, Willie Thorne, Bill Roache and Alan McInally.

A great day finished with Bobby Davro’s Britvic team in the runners up place and just pipped by the Dowding & Mills’ team with celebrity Dougie Brown to the last title of the week. Shaun P Webster won the individual celebrity prize.

Evening celebrations included Nailcote’s owner Rick Cressman being presented with a very special 60^th Birthday cake designed top look like the 9^th hole, by his wife Sue. Partying went on until the early hours with entertainment by Bobby Davro, X Factor runner up Andy Abraham and a James Brown Soul & Funk Party tribute.

All in all a great week helped by some lovely weather and the generosity of everyone involved raised £24,000 for the Rainbow’s Hospice. Now the plans start for next year when the Farmfoods’ British Par 3 Championship will return to Nailcote Hall from the 7^th – 10^th August. Tony Jacklin confirmed he will be back again and reminded everyone at the final dinner that the “short game” is the part of golf that really matters !

Wedding Fayre Sunday 23rd October

2011-10-18T01:32:00.000-07:00

Perfect Brides are holding a Wedding Fayre at Nailcote Hall Hotel on Sunday 23rd October 2011 11am - 4pm

Free Entry

Prize Draw

For further information please contact: info@perfectbrides.co.uk

07912 435570

Mouland makes his mark with Belas win

2011-10-05T02:58:00.000-07:00

Nailcote Hall pro Mark Mouland claimed his maiden European Senior Tour victory and his first win in 23 years after he came from four shots behind to snatch the Belas Clube de Campo Senior Open de Portugal title with a four under par closing round of 68.

The Welshman's steady finish, after following up his opening round of 70 with a 69, was enough to seal a one shot vistory on nine under par after as many as five potential winners fell by the wayside in the challenging final stretch at Belas Clube de Campo, outside Lisbon.

In a thrilling finale, Gordon Brand Jnr, Jerry Bruner, Doug Johnson and Gary Woolstenholme shared the lead as the final groups reached the turn.

But they all struggled on the closing holes as every one of them suffered at least a double bogey on the back nine, with Bruner double bogeying the 14th, Woolstenholme dropping two shots on the 17th, Johnson suffering an eight on the par four 12th while Brand Jnr found the water for a triple bogey on the 18th on the way to a one over par round of 73.

Overnight leader Mike Cunning, who was four shots clear of Mouland going into the final round, also struggled to get going after a bogey on the third hole before three bogeys on the back nine contributed to a one over par final round of 73 that left him in second place.

Mouland meanwhile, was coolness personified as he came down the stretch, birdieing the 10th, 11th, 13th and 15th in a round which didn't feature a single blemish.

Indeed, the two-tie European Tour winner, whose last vistory in European golf came at the 1988 KLM Open, only had a single bogey all week as he picked up the winner's prize fund of €45,000.

"It feels great to win for the first time on the Senior Tour, it hasn't sunk in yet." said Mouland, who joined the tour after his 50th birthday last April.

"I just played really solid all week. I was really calm for some reason, I don't know why, I was just very focussed."

"Coming down the 18th I knew Gordon (Brand Jnr) was behind me and Mike (Cuning) too, so I just wanted a good solid shot in and just give myself any kind of opportunity for birdie, then post a score and just see what goes on elsewhere."

Mouland's back nine score of a four under par 32 was the best all day and he admitted that it was a tough run-in after the wind picked up for the first time all week on the final day.

"I was just safe and solid, there was a tough wind swirling around and anytime it's like that a par is a good score on any hole," continued Mouland, whose previous best finish on the Senior Tour was third place at the ISP S Handa Senior Masters presented by The Stapleford Forum in june.

"The 17th and 18th are really tough holes especially with the strong wind so I'm not surprised the other guys had trouble there."

All signs were pointing to Woolstenholme earlier in the day as he stormed to the top of the field, going five under for the day at one point thanks to birdies on the first, third, eighth, 10th, 11th and 13th, but the double bogey on the penultimate hole left him with a 70, putting paid to the six time Walker Cup player's hopes as he finished in third postition for the fourth time this year.

His playing partner Ian Woosnam also suffered the same fate when he had a five on the 144 metre par three 17th, having threatened the leaders when he went five under through 16 following several birdies before finishing tied for fourth with a 71, alongside Bruner, who carded for a round of 74.

Bride of the year 2012

2011-04-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for a venue for your wedding reception in 2012 don't forget that our Nailcote Hall Bride of the Year could be you. Situated in the beautiful Warwickshire countryside but within easy reach of Solihull and Birmingham, Nailcote Hall is a wonderfull place to celebrate your wedding. All couples booking a wedding reception before the end of January 2012 will be entered into the draw to be held at our special event in February. One lucky couple will be drawn at random and will win a free wedding reception worth around £5000. What a fantastic way to start your married life.

Your chance to play golf with the stars at Nailcote Hall

2011-04-26T05:43:00.000-07:00

The Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship at Nailcote Hall attracts golfing greats like Tony Jacklin and the cigar chomping US Senior Larry Laoretti, along with Sir Alex Ferguson, Strictly's Len Goodman and our own Jasper Carrott. This year any keen amateur golfer, young and old, has a chance to take part.

We are planning something new for the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship this year. For the first time we are introducing a series of Open Par 3 Championship events, teeing off with a Juniors Open (8-12 years) on Sunday May 22 and culminating with a Men's Open on July 3. The winner of each event will win a place to play with a top professional in the British Par 3 Championship itself on August 10-11.

For all the details and to download an entry form go to www.openpar3championship.co.uk or call 02476 466174

Course Changes for the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship at Nailcote Hall

2011-04-26T04:40:00.000-07:00

Never one to sit still the owner of Nailcote Hall Hotel Rick Cressman is currently undertaking a number of alterations to the Cromwell Course near Solihull, Warwickshire in preparation for this year’s British Par 3 Championship.

As Rick said, ‘After last year’s event we decided to plan the course layout to finish on the longest hole which in normal playing use is number 7. At this year’s championship it will be played as number 9, swapping places with the traditional 9th hole. This will give spectators a much better opportunity to enjoy the excitement and the great view provided by the Grandstand which views the house.’

It has also meant that Rick has wanted to make the finishing hole even more spectacular for competitors, spectators and the Sky Sports camera which will be covering the event from 9th – 12th August.

A new water feature stretching all but 16 yards short of the centre of the green means 130 yards of the 146 yards long hole is threatened by the new pond and has narrowed the safe fairway area by a third!

At the same time it has wrapped water around the left hand portion of the 8th green and any hooked tee shot will certainly run the risk of finding the new stretch of water too.

It all looks really attractive according to Rick but he adds that the change will add even more bite to a course that is already the most challenging and tough short course in the UK.

Spectators will also find some improved viewing areas so that the superb short game skills of the top pro’s and the star celebrities can really be appreciated and enjoyed.

It will be a great challenge and lots of fun for all of the family to enjoy in August when Tony Jacklin will be leaving the star players along with the past US Senior Open Champion Larry Laoretti. For more information about the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship visit, www.britishpar3.com or call Champions (UK) Plc on 08453 313031.

You can always pay and play the Cromwell Course at Nailcote Hall for just £10 adults and £5 juniors. Call Nailcote Hall on 02476 466174 to check availability of tee times.

Mark Mouland Ready for Senior Action - Starts with a Major

2011-04-24T05:09:00.000-07:00

Mark Mouland one of the European Tour's elite band of players with more than 500 appearances is just weeks from starting life on the European Seniors Tour.

But Having finished in 8th place at the Champions Tour qualifying school last November his debut as a Senior will actually take place at Valhalla following his invitation to play in the US PGA sSeniors Championship.

Mark who is based at Nailcote Hall near Solihull in Warwickshire and lives nearby in Kenilworth with his wife Marianne, just can't wait to start competing again and is thrilled at the prospect of playing against all the Champions Tour stars like Tom Watson, Mark O'Meara, Dave Stockton and all. As Mark says 'it really is a dream start after 5 years of local regional pro-ams and some Asian tour events. I can't wait to be competing and meeting up with a lot of old friends again.

After the trip to Valhalla Mark will be making his European Seniors Tour debut at the ISPS Handa Championship at the delightful Stapleford Park from May 3rd - 5th, and is really looking forward to renewing some well established rivalries with his ex-European Tour pals. 'It really will be terrific to test myself all over again against the likes of Sam Torrance, Ian Woosnam, Carl Mason and David J Russell. Several of the players have stayed in touch and have come and played in the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship which I have helpes develop with the owner of Nailcote Hall.

Hopefully with all the practice I get there my short game should be sharp and ready to help me get back in the winners circle. I just can't wait - 3 weeks and counting!!

Wedding Fayre 20th March 2011

2011-03-08T02:48:00.000-08:00

Perfect Brides are holding a Wedding Fayre at Nailcote Hall Hotel on Sunday 20th March 2011 11am - 4pm

Free Entry

Prize Draw

For further information please contact: info@perfectbrides.co.uk

07912 435570

Strictly Come Golfing at Nailcote Hall Hotel

2010-11-01T01:19:00.000-07:00

To enquire or play a round of Golf on our Championship Par 3 Course call: 02476 466174

Fine Dining at the Oak Room Restaurant

2010-10-28T02:38:00.000-07:00

To enquire or to book a table at the Oak Room Restaurant call: 02476 466174

Enjoy Cabaret Nights In The Marquee

2010-09-17T04:11:00.000-07:00

For more further information on either of these events click here
To enquire or to book a table now click here

Golfing Breaks at Nailcote Hall Hotel

2010-09-17T02:49:00.000-07:00

Strictly Come Golfing..

2010-09-17T02:48:00.000-07:00

To celebrate the launch of the new series of 'Strictly Come Dancing' which launches on the 1st October 2010, Nailcote Hall are offering fantastic golfing deals. Can you put your balls on the dance floor?

O’Hanlon Wins The Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship

2010-09-03T02:45:00.000-07:00

Cornwall based, PGA Professional, Richard O’Hanlon triumphed after drama at the last hole left Nailcote’s European Tour Pro’s Mark Mouland and Andrew Marshall one shot shy of a 3 man play off.

With O’Hanlon in the club house at 6 under par, Mouland missed a 6 foot putt for par which would have put him in a play off. And Marshall, who needed a birdie to make a play off watched as his 20 foot putt stopped agonisingly an inch short of the hole.

After the dramatic finish, O’Hanlon reflected on how fortunes in golf can change, “Last year after the first day’s play, I was in last place – and here I am now the British Par 3 Champion – It’s amazing !”

The Championship saw several other star players in the top ten places, with 21 year old Oli Fisher finishing at 2 under par on his first visit to Nailcote alongside Gary Wolstenholme and Mike Watson all in 4th place.

The Seniors’ Tour No 1 money earner and course record holder, Carl Mason finished at 1 under with European Tour players Gary Boyd and Simon Wakefield. Just behind them in 10th place the tournament host, Tony Jacklin produced some super golf to roll back the years and finish on level par.

Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of his US Open win Tony was delighted but reflected that at one point when he was 3 under par and just 2 shots off the lead, his competitive instincts were really firing. “It’s so tough around here – but a great test and great fun – it’s what the game of golf is all about – the fiddly bits !”

Past Ryder Cup player, Brian Waites eliminated all the “fiddly bits” on the first day by holing his tee shot on the signature 9th and winning a £1,500 Italian designer, Fope gold bracelet.

And Tommy Horton missed out on winning the £28,000 Land Rover Freelander that Guy Salmon sponsored on the 146 YARD 7TH HOLE WHEN HIS TEE SHOT FINISHED JUST AN INCH AWAY FROM THE CUP !!

So the traditional wheelbarrow with £5,000 in £1 coins arrived at the presentation and the new Farmfoods’ British Par 3 champion was crowned – Richard O’Hanlon.

The ‘Better Ball’ pairs scoring was very tight with several superb performances from some of the Professionals Amateur partners. Gary Boyd and Simon Peake, Gary Wolstenholme and Sarah Herd and Andrew Marshall with Dan Holt all worked well together finishing tied for 4th on 12 under par. But hot favourities, Mark Mouland and 14 year old partner, Charley Hull just missed out on the title again finishing on 13 under in 3rd place with Andrew McKay and amateur course record holder, Aaron Rai runners up on 13 under too.

It was left to a more mature partner Ian Halliwell teamed with European Tour professional, Simon Lilly to produce that little bit extra to take the “pairs” title at 14 under par. A delighted Ian Halliwell had donated a new trophy for the event and promptly won it !!

A terrific group of celebrity golfers enjoyed the week and helped support the Rainbows Hospice and Seve Ballesteros Foundation in the process. Amongst the star names competing, the large crowds which attended this year were able to enjoy seeing several new Nallcote visitors including, Sir Bobby Charlton, Len Goodman, John Conteh and Kenny Logan. And it was great to see regulars returning to take up the challenge of the Par 3 like Ron Atkinson, Lee Sharpe, Brendan Cole, Bob Champion, Peter Shilton, William Roache and Willie Thorne.

It was entertainment all the way and then the golf began !

The two charity Celebrity Am days of the Championship on the 10th and 13th produced some exciting golf and the amazing Brian Close who at 79 years of age and with a handicap of just 8 won the Celebrity Trophy on both days with 42 points on the 10th and 37 points on the 13th.

Past celebrity champion, Clive Abbott was just two points behind in 3rd place while Gary Wolstenholme lost out to Brian on a countback to be 2nd. On his first attempt at playing the course, Len Goodman finished joint 7th and Nailcote regular, Pete Langford of the Barron Knights came in 5th with 35 points.

On the 13th, Len Goodman made it into the prizes with a 5th place finish on 33 points playing up with the crowd all the way round and even dancing with one or two ! David J Russell, Gary Wolstenholme and Warren Jacklin chased Brian Close hard, but he held on to win by 2 points. Sir Bobby Charlton played the event for the first time and commented that it was tougher than he had expected but that he had enjoyed a great day with his team.

The team events certainly produced some drama especially on the first Celeb-Am on the 10th August. Despite some good play by the Hyland Wealth Management and Bernard Matthews’ teams aided by Kriss Akabusi and Ron Atkinson respectively and the Farmfoods’ team with Gary Wolstenholme, it was left to the 2nd team of Farmfoods, Ian Halliwell and Derek Morris to battle it out for the top three places.

All of them finished on 92 points – 20 under par and on a countback the Derek Morris team won with Pete Langford their celebrity assisted by his star 11 year olds !! Stefan Gryla, George Gray and Eliott Garside. Ian Halliwell’s team with the superb Clive Abbott were runners up and the Farmfoods’ team with Tommy Horton 3rd.

The final event of the tournament produced another really tight finish and the prize winners in 4th, 5th and 6th places were RSM Tenon with Len Goodman, Martin Ross with Jasper Carrott, and Aubrey Allen with Darren Maddy.

At the end of the day it was left to the two Farmfoods’ teams and Nailcote Hall to battle it out for the final three places with the Farmfoods’ team headed by Eric Herd with Gary Wolstenholme pulling off the win with 83 points – 11 under par. Nailcote Hall with Tommy Horton finished one shot behind and a further shot back the 2nd Farmfoods’ team with Willie Thorne had to settle for 3rd place.

The Gala Dinners were a resounding success and as a result of the fund raising efforts, the various event charities have benefited to the tune of more than £……… The family fun of the event was boosted by a new look tented village with chipping competition from John Letters and a golf simulator challenge. And everyone could take a breather and enjoy a free massage or face painting for the youngsters while the ladies could try products from Liz Earle and Estee Lauder in the John Lewis tent.

All in all a great festival of golf was enjoyed by record crowds over the four days and the weather was a bit better too! There’s sure to be lots more excitement and even more famous names and players coming to the Championship next year.

For more information and news,call Sue Cressman on 07957 546622 or visit the website, www.britishpar3championship.co.uk

For more about enjoying golf at Nailcote Hall call 02476 466174 or visit www.nailcotehall.co.uk

Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship 2010

2010-07-06T08:37:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Championship, hosted by Tony Jacklin CBE, will take place on the 10^th-13^th August at the magnificent Nailcote Hall located in the beautiful county of Warwickshire.

For ticket sales telephone: 02476 466174

www.britishpar3championship.com

Celebrities Help Tony Jacklin Celebrate At The Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship

2010-07-04T08:53:00.000-07:00

Stars of Sport, TV and Entertainment are coming to the Par 3 Golfing Paradise at Nailcote Hall in Berkswell to help Tony Jacklin celebrate the 40th Anniversary of his US Open success

The celebrities love the challenge of the tricky ‘Cromwell Course’ and Sir Alex Ferguson who played for the first time last year is returning. He is sure to meet his Manchester United Goal Keeper Peter Schmeichel who is making his 4th Appearance.

“Strictly Come Dancing” judge Len Goodman is playing for the first time and several past competitors from the Show will be there to greet him. Willie Thorne, Jimmy Tarbuck, Brendan Cole, and Schmeichel will be watching his scores closely for sure ‘Sevens’ will want to be avoided

Local favourite Jasper Carrott will be competing again, along with England’s great goalkeeper, Peter Shilton.

As Nailcote owner Rick Cressman said:

“I am sure everyone who visits the Championship will see some great golf and have the chance of meeting their favourite Stars too. The tented village will be better than ever, with a welcome for all the family and a variety of catering".

Adults day entry is £10 and a four day pass is £25.
Children under 16 and over 60’s are free of charge.
Parking is also Free in the Public Car Park.

For information about the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship visit: www.britishpar3championship.co.uk

For Tickets call Nailcote Hall on 02476 466174 or email: info@nailcotehall.co.uk

Ryder Cup Stars Join Tony Jacklin’s Celebrations

2010-07-02T11:43:00.000-07:00

It is still hard to believe it is 40 years since Tony Jacklin’s historic U.S. Open win and that we have had to wait 40 years until Graham McDowell gave us a British winner again, just a few weeks ago.

At this year’s British Par 3 Championship, it is a fitting tribute to Tony to see several past Ryder Cup players coming to Nailcote Hall to take up the challenges of the tricky Par 3 course.

Joining Tony is Tommy Horton, whose 23 victories on the Seniors’ Tour has just been equalled by Carl Mason. Other Ryder Cup favourites include, Brian Waites, Malcolm Gregson, Maurice Benbridge and Gordon J Brand. In addition, recent 1st time Seniors’ Winner and Ryder Cup Vice Captain at the K Club, David J Russell, is returning to Nailcote for the first time in a decade.

There are certainly some top quality players in this year’s Championship with past Champions, Shaun P Webster, Carl Mason, Mark Mouland and Steve Carter all playing.

They will also be joined by past Tour Winners, Malcolm McKenzie, Gary Emerson, Phil Golding and Paul Eales. Amongst the current crop of European Tour talent, French Open Champion 2007 Graeme Storm, will be playing with rising new stars Sam Hutsby, Gary Boyd and David Dixon. The Volvo PGA Champion 2004 Scott Drummond, will be playing as well as last year’s 3rd placed, Phil Archer.

Rick Cressman, the owner of Nailcote Hall commented, “I am sure the field of players competing in the Championship this year is the best we’ve ever assembled, so the competition should be spectacular. The course has gone through a few changes since last year so I expect the players to find it in the most challenging condition too!”

With celebrities joining in the fun, like Jasper Carrott, Jimmy Tarbuck, Len Goodman, Peter Schmeichel and Sir Alex Ferguson, the 4 day festival of golf is sure to be very entertaining.

If you would like to watch the stars at The Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship tickets are now available.

Adults day entry is £10 and a four day pass is £25.
Children under 16 and over 60’s are free of charge.
Parking is also Free in the Public Car Park.

For information about the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship visit: www.britishpar3championship.co.uk

For Tickets call Nailcote Hall on 02476 466174 or email: info@nailcotehall.co.uk

Carl Mason Returns To The Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship

2010-07-01T08:50:00.000-07:00

Course record holder Carl Mason returns to the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship. European Seniors’ Tour No. 1 Money Winner, Carl Mason is taking up the challenge of the British Par 3 Championship at Nailcote Hall for the first time in a decade.

Back in 1999, Carl won the championship when he also set the course record with an amazing 6 under par 21 for 9 holes. Since then, Carl has enjoyed consistent success on the European Seniors’ Tour and only 2 weeks ago equalled Tommy Horton’s record of 23 victories.

Tommy who will be playing at Nailcote again this year is still the No. 2 money winner on the Seniors’ Tour and is sure to give Carl a run for his money in this year’s Championship.

Rick Cressman the owner of Nailcote Hall commented “It’s really great to have Carl coming back. None of us who witnessed his course record could quite believe it when it happened. It will be interesting to see what he thinks of all the course changes we’ve made since he last played here”

The competition should be terrific this year with 30 European Tour and Seniors Tour players joined by 30 top regional PGA players over the 2 days 36 holes championship in August 11th and 12th.

Celebrity/Am team days on the 10th and 13th will be entertaining too, with lots of stars of TV, Sport and Entertainment coming to test their short game at Nailcote.

Look out for Len Goodman and Brendan Cole from ‘Strictly Come Dancing’. Jasper Carrott and Jimmy Tarbuck are sure to be keeping spirits up. Goalkeeping legends Peter Schmeichel and Peter Shilton will be back again and Sir Alex Ferguson is returning after his first appearance last year

There’s fun for all the family with a golf simulator challenge and putting competition each day supporting ‘The Rainbows’ Hospice and a variety of catering in the tented village.

Adults day entry is £10 and a four day pass is £25.
Children under 16 and over 60’s are free of charge.
Parking is also Free in the Public Car Park.

For information about the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship visit: www.britishpar3championship.co.uk

For Tickets call Nailcote Hall on 02476 466174 or email: info@nailcotehall.co.uk

Stylish New Celebrity Bar

2010-06-30T06:17:00.000-07:00

A place full of tradition, Nailcote Hall still keeps up with the times and has now launched a new ‘Celebrity Bar’ in the 17th century hall of this beautiful Warwickshire country retreat. For many years celebrity stars of sport, television, music and the movies have visited and stayed at Nailcote Hall and with the growing success of the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship more than ever have been coming to enjoy the experience and spirit of fun that is Nailcote. As proprietor Rick Cressman says:

“I always wanted to have style and quality but never to be ‘stuck up’, so our spirit of fun is very important and certainly very attractive to the celebrities who come to visit us. So now everyone who comes to the Celebrity Bar will enjoy the new furniture and decoration, surrounded by fabulous pictures of the stars who have been our guests and become our friends".

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Tradition At It's Best

2010-06-29T06:44:00.000-07:00

The true test of any restaurant has to be - ‘would we ever make a return visit?’ To entice us back the service, food and surroundings all have to be outstanding. Jacky Cook and friends have been lucky enough to enjoy meals several times at Nailcote Hall. But would another visit feel as special as the first?

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Dark Chocolate Torte Recipe

2010-06-28T06:30:00.000-07:00

Nailcote Hall are pleased to share this delicious and indulgent recipe for a dark Chocolate Torte with a mango and rosewater sorbet.

Download the full recipe now

Nailcote Hall - A Great Golfing Experience

2010-06-16T08:25:00.000-07:00

The British Pro Short Course Championship was first held way back in 1933 in Torquay. Legends such as Ted Ray, Harry Vardon and Henry Cotton graced the tournament in its early years. In 1998, a new era was born as the newly designed Nailcote Hall became the event's host course and in the subsequent years has provided many exciting tournaments, many of them undecided until the last putt has dropped.

Nailcote is a family run business; everything is done in house including course design. Owner Rick Cressman and Ex European Tour stalwart and Head Pro Mark Mouland work tirelessly to improve the layout and present an annual strict examination of everyone’s short game skills.

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Tony Jacklin Par 3 Celebration

2010-06-15T08:18:00.000-07:00

Tony Jacklin CBE celebrates 40 years since his incredible US Open victory at The Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship, 10th - 13th August 2010 at Nailcote Hall.

What better host for one of the UK’s most prestigious golfing events than Tony Jacklin CBE, the first Briton to win the US Open in 50 years when he posted a seven-stroke victory over Dave Hill at Hazeltine back in 1970. He was the first Englishman to win the title since Ted Ray in 1920, a title that has evaded the British ever since.

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