12 hours ago
Island golf favourite battles visitor decline and warns of ‘big decisions' ahead
An Isle of Wight cafe and golf course says it faces 'big decisions' at the end of the year, with visitor numbers described as "absolutely dead."
Browns Golf and Cafe said it is taking 'each day as it is' as it tackles an increasingly difficult situation.
Owned by the IW Council and leased by operator Paul Saville since summer 2023, the attraction is a summer favourite on Culver Parade in Sandown.
Taking to social media to share the concerning news, Browns Golf explained that the course and the cafe had been 'absolutely dead for the fourth day in a row.'
Browns Golf Course and Cafe (Image: IWCP)
In a post on Facebook, the business said: 'Bloody tough going at the moment, but it's likely shared everywhere.
'Many difficulties at this moment with 'one body' who are causing Browns such a headache."
Browns Golf said this body was not learning from "historic issues," adding that the business needs to be supported by them.
The post continued: 'Taking each day as it is and see what happens by the end of the year - big decisions to be made.
Islanders took to the comments to offer support for the popular venue, with some saying they would come and visit today (Sunday, June 8).
The post follows a serious incident on May 28, when police were called to the golf course at 3.40am after an alleged violent assault resulted in a man being found with serious puncture wounds to his back.
A boy from Newport was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent and burglary and bailed.
Read more:
Seafront golf venue targeted by thieves in overnight break-in
Teen arrested after man suffers puncture wound in serious golf course assault
The cafe at Browns Golf (Image: IWCP)
Replying to comments, Browns Golf voiced broader concerns about the economic climate for small businesses on the Island.
"This is an Isle of Wight thing more so than the mainland. I feel for every business here.
"The big concern is the rapid decline over recent years.
'The government need to support small businesses like other big countries are doing.
'We seem to have no idea how to deal with such problems.'
Thankfully, it appears business picked up this afternoon following Browns Golf's post, with live music from Tommy Burnham drawing more visitors to the cafe.
