The government’s latest coronavirus guidelines are good news for golfers in Kent.

Three and fourball golf can return from today (Monday). It means up to four golfers from four separate households may now play together in one single group.

Golfers could only previously play in groups more than two if they were from the same household and if clubs allowed it.

England Golf - the governing body for amateur golf in England - have also said clubs can now choose to run competitions again, providing social distancing and safety restrictions are strictly observed.

The move comes after the government said that from Monday it’s permissible to meet in groups of up to six people from different households in parks or private grounds.

Golf clubs reopened last month, along with a number of other facilities, such as outdoor tennis courts and fishing lakes.

A statement from England Golf said: "The latest UK government adjustment of lockdown conditions now permits golf clubs in England to re-introduce the fourball format from Monday 1 June.

“While Covid-19 remains a live threat in our communities, we would ask everyone involved in the game to act responsibly, show respect and protect the wellbeing of golfers, staff and volunteers.”

Their recommendation is that clubs operate a minimum 10-minute interval between tee times.

Clubhouses and restaurants remain out of bounds, however, although takeaways are allowed. They could be back open in July as part the the government’s next phase of easing lockdown rules.

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