Earlier this year, Potters Resorts Five Lakes Golf Club was shortlisted as a finalist in the Club of the Year category, at the England Golf Awards 2025.
As the country’s governing body working at the heart of amateur golf, England Golf’s mission is to support and empower a thriving community of players, counties and clubs to get the most out of the game they love.
And, on Wednesday 2nd April, their annual awards at the Hilton Manchester Deansgate provided the chance to shine a light on individuals and organisations who have done so much to promote a positive image of golf through their accomplishments or selfless endeavours to help others. Those attending included volunteers to elite performers, clubs to counties, and juniors to lifetime achievers.
Potters Resorts Five Lakes Golf Club was a finalist in the 2025 Club of the Year AwardEngland Golf Chief Executive Jeremy Tomlinson said: “Our awards night is always an important and special evening for us, as we recognise and applaud all the wonderful things that are happening around the country to help our great game take strides forward. Everyone nominated should be proud of what they have achieved.”
The Club of the Year Award
In announcing their finalists back in January, England Golf said: “After many hours of looking through some excellent nominations, we are delighted to confirm that our judges have selected Potters Resorts Five Lakes Golf Club as one of three finalists for the Club of the Year Award at the 2025 England Golf Awards.”
And speaking of the nomination prior to the awards night in Manchester, John Potter said: “The club has a great history. The course was designed by Neil Coles, a European Tour legend, and it was opened by Sir Nick Faldo. It’s hosted several regional PGA events. There were always aspirations to go on and host some of the largest events in the sport.
“We took over Five Lakes in late 2021, and while the previous owners had left a first-class foundation for an excellent club including a brilliant team, it was clear after the pandemic that everything needed some TLC. So our objective has been simple—restore Five Lakes Golf Club to its former glory.”
Investment in your facilities
Fast forward three years, and the difference is there for all to see. A modern Golfers’ Bar, well-stocked Pro Shop and superb changing facilities are just a precursor to a vibrant and revitalised 18-hole course. Meanwhile, extensive practice facilities that include a driving range, putting green and a dedicated short game area ensure Five Lakes has everything the golfer needs.
The Pro Shop at Five Lakes is stocked with the latest clothing, footwear and equipmentWith the club’s membership quadrupling since 2022, John continues: “We wanted to put the club back on the map as one of the best in Essex. Not only have we achieved that, but we’re now recognised as one of the leading clubs in England. That is a testament to everyone involved in our golf offering at Five Lakes. From the team working on the greens to those welcoming golfers in the shop and serving them in our bar.
A warm and friendly welcome is par for the course at Five LakesA memorable night
Club manager Wesley Barton, assistant club manager Rhys Hodder, head greenkeeper Peter Smith, and deputy head greenkeeper Joe Ramsey attended the awards along with members of the club’s committee.
And while we didn’t take home the big prize on the night, representing the club as a finalist at the England Golf Awards is a reflection of the development and growth the club has enjoyed in recent years.
Wesley said: “The biggest change since Potters came in is that feeling of community. As well as a brilliant course, facilities and flexible membership options, we regularly host member events, competitions and community initiatives. That’s something that England Golf looks for when nominating just three clubs as finalists for this award.
“That’s what a golf club should be about. Creating a welcoming and inclusive community for players of all levels to come and enjoy the game they love. And the results are there for all to see. Our club has grown from 240 members to well over 1,000 now. The last few years have been like a breath of fresh air.”
Congratulations to everyone at the club on this incredible achievement. For more information on the awards, you can visit www.englandgolfawards.org .Or, to enjoy a round or explore membership options, visit www.fivelakesgolfclub.co.uk.
