GOLFERS are returning to the fairways in Southend but have been given strict instructions ... including not to touch anyone else’s golf balls.

Councillor Stephen Aylen, who represents the Belfairs ward said the re-opening of Belfairs Golf Course must be done carefully to ensure proper social distancing measures can be implemented first.

Meanwhile, the Garon Park golf complex has reopened, but issued golfers with a strict set of instructions.

These include not touching “the flagstick, other people’s golf clubs or other people’s golf balls”.

Other guidelines included changing into your golf shoes “in the car park ready for play” and not congregating at the club house of tee off points.

Mr Aylen, who represents the Belfairs ward, said residents have been urging the council to open the golf course in Leigh’s woods straight away after the Government relaxed lockdown restrictions.

However, he said this would be irresponsible and safety must be the priority.

He said: “We will re-open once all the correct equipment has been put in. The problem is that the Government only told councils on Tuesday afternoon that they could re-open but we can’t just do it that quickly. All sorts of things will need to be installed to do this.”

This will include signage to ensure that people are aware they need to maintain social distancing and that only two people can play a round.

Signs will also notify people living in the area that the course is due to open again.

Mr Aylen said news the course will re-open has had a mixed reaction among residents, with some keen to go out and play and others wishing to see it remain shut so they can continue using it as green space.

However, he said he hopes he can find a way to organise a small opening ceremony with all those taking part sticking to social distancing.

Councillor Carole Mulroney, who oversees environment and planning, said: “We will get the course open again as soon as possible and by the end of May at the latest, but in the meantime we need to do some minor works to ensure the course is up to a good standard and playable and all users of this public open space, be they golfers, dog walkers or any other visitors, are safe.”