Cuppello’s reign over

Tony Cuppello: gone after 16 years

GOLF:

POPULAR Brookdale professional Tony Cuppello has left the club after 16 years.

A source of golfing advice and friend to many Brookdale members during his tenure, Cuppello quit Brookdale last week. It is understood he will pursue an interest at Pike Fold Golf Club, Bury, where his former Brookdale assistant Grant Hamerton is the pro..

Cupello was in the Brookdale team which recently played in the semi-finals of the Dunham Forest trophy.

Cuppello (52), who lives in Alkrington, joined Brookdale after working as a cruise ship golf instructor.

He declined to comment on the reason for leaving Brookdale, but said: “I have enjoyed my time at the club.”

A Brookdale spokesman confirmed Cuppello’s departure followed the club’s decision to almost halve his retainer. Brookdale has been under financial pressure for some time due to falling membership and increased costs. Brookdale also placed green staff on a four-day week.

The pro vacancy hasn’t been advertised, but the club hopes to find a replacement as soon as possible.