GOLF: It doesn't seem five minutes ago that Suffolk gained another golf course when Ufford Park opened, but in fact it was almost ten years ago. April 9, 1992 was the day when Ufford Park was opened for business, although the official opening was performed the following month by MP John Gummer.

IT doesn't seem five minutes ago that Suffolk gained another golf course when Ufford Park opened, but in fact it was almost ten years ago.

April 9, 1992 was the day when Ufford Park was opened for business, although the official opening was performed the following month by MP John Gummer.

In many ways it has been a roller-coaster ride for owners Colin Aldous and his wife Shirley.

Like any business it has had its teething problems from time to time, but today the golf course and hotel and leisure complex is regarded as one of the best in the country.

Now plans are well in hand for the ten-year celebrations that will start on Tuesday, April 9 and go on until the following Sunday.

Looking back over the past decade, Colin said: "It's been totally challenging and all-consuming enjoyment. It's been a labour of love throughout that time."

Colin and Shirley paid tribute to the staff, many of whom have been with them since Ufford Park first opened.

Shirley said: "The staff and management relationship has been excellent, and we recognise the contribution of the staff that has helped make a success of Ufford Park.

"In addition, our success has been enhanced by staff loyalty, and there's no doubt that without good staff, we wouldn't be where we are today. They have made a major contribution."

Carolyne Hayter, the conference and banqueting manager, is the longest-serving employee and Ufford Park is one of the largest employers in the area.

It would be easy for Colin and Shirley to sit back now after what they have achieved, but that is not in their make-up.

"We're looking forward to the next ten years," said Colin. "Ufford Park still holds many personal challenges and we want to consolidate and then expand the business. We're not going to sit on our laurels."

Ufford Park, whose course has been voted in the top 40 winter courses in the UK by Today's Golfer for the second year running, is a member of the Best Western Group, a co-operative of individually owned and

managed hotels, achieving three-star connoisseur status following the hotel's most recent inspection.

So now Ufford Park is looking forward to their week of celebration in April.

On the Tuesday there will be a company golf day followed by a presentation dinner. The Wednesday is reserved for the Leisure Club members. There will be a two-mile fun run, a bouncy castle for children and a

barbecue.

On Thursday, the club will hold a charity evening sponsored by the Suffolk Magazine. The staff's efforts will be recognised on Friday when there will be a presentation and cheese and wine evening.

On Saturday there will be a golf competition for the hotel guests, sponsored by Ufford Park, following by a gala dinner in the evening.

Sunday brings the curtain down on the celebrations with a competition for the Ufford Park members followed by a barbecue.