With a big increase in footfall expected this summer, Bridport and West Dorset Golf Club now has invested in the latest Toro Groundsmaster 4500-D rotary mower.

The club decided to upgrade to the latest model after its existing machine put in nine years hard work mowing semi-roughs, clocking up 4,500 hours over the time.


Head greenkeeper Chris Tozer, seated on theGM4500-D, with dealer DGM's Dennis Lumley

Located on the cliffs overlooking Lyme Bay and the Chesil Beach to Portland, the 6,213-yard course offers stunning views - making it a popular choice year round. But with two holiday parks sitting adjacent to the club, a dramatic increase in players and visitors is anticipated come summer.

"When it came to replacing the 4500 we looked around at a range of other mowers," says head greenkeeper Chris Tozer. "The 4500 had been pretty much in operation full time in the summer, the semi-roughs needing to be maintained to two inches. This really means once you have finished mowing it is time to start again."

After trying a number of alternative mowers, the 4500's replacement was chosen; a new Toro 4500-D took its place.

"The finish we get with the latest mower is really excellent," said Chris. "We block mow to provide distinct shading against the fairways. These are striped using a Toro 5610 that has now clocked over 5,800 hours with us. The contrast we achieve looks fantastic."