Leys Society
Founded by Members of the Barry Golf Club in 1957
President: Rodney Bird
Captain: 20232/23 Andrew Williams
The Leys Golfing Society was formed by former Barry Golf Club members, who used play on land between the Villages of Gileston and Aberthaw known as the Leys. The club itself was formed in 1897. Sadly, the course was compulsorily acquired by the C.E.G.B. in 1956 and the Aberthaw Power station now occupies the land. (Soon to be demolished!)
Attempts to re-establish a golf course nearby failed and the members then joined other clubs, principally, Southerndown, Glamorganshire, Radyr and Cardiff. Cardiff is now its spiritual home with the Society’s boards on display due to the historical links between Barry Golf Club and Cardiff Golf Club. Members from Barry Golf Club who lived in the city formed Cardiff Golf Club in 1921.
The Society was formed in 1957, recruiting a limited numbers of golfing friends. Within 20 years the society nearly failed and was saved through the recruitment of golfers who had never been members of the Barry Golf Club. Although for many years, members from Cardiff Golf Club were in the majority, we have encouraged members from other clubs to join us. We currently have about 33 members representing 6 golf clubs in South Wales.
We have three golf meetings a year. We play for the Buchanan Goblet in May. In June we play for the Stewart Cup.
Our final meeting is at Cardiff in September when we play for the Pugsley Cup, which is then followed by our AGM. Each game is followed by a meal and the prize presentation.
In March/April we hold The Leys Dinner (Members & Guests) which is a black-tie event. This is to both start the season and to say thank you to all who have supported us throughout the year. It is also an opportunity to invite potential members.
Finally, we hold an away trip in early October. In 2022 we stayed and played at Mendip Springs Golf Club. Potential members are particularly encouraged to join this trip as it is an excellent way of getting to know other members of the Leys, some of whom you may find good company!
During the summer months, we keep a running total for two other competitions. The first for the President’s shield which goes to the best performing golfer over the three competitions and a Vice President’s prize for the highest total number of Stapleford points. Very often, but by no means always, it is the same person who has the highest score, in which case the winner of the Vice President’s prize goes to the player with the second highest Stapleford points score.
All our competitions are Stapleford, we play in threes and the secretary organises the draw in order that members can mix with other members from different clubs with whom they may not normally play.
The current membership fee is £10 per annum. Members are required to buy a society tie, at a cost of £15 to be worn at all society events. We would expect members to attend at least once a year, although ideally, we would like them to attend all meetings, but recognise that this is not always possible. We normally send out our programme in January.
If you enjoy good golf, friendly company both on the course and after the game and are interested in keeping the name of Barry Golf Club for another 60 years then please contact us. You will be very welcome.
You could visit our Web Site at: www.leysgolfsociety.uk
Colin Mineards
Hon Secretary