A GOLF club formed nearly ninety years ago is closing with the loss of three jobs.

The Riddlesden club blames the move on falling membership and increasing expenditure.

At an extraordinary general meeting on Saturday, members voted for the club to cease operating from the end of this month.

Two greenkeepers and a steward will lose their posts.

Secretary John Dickinson said it was a "very sad" time for the club, but that the current situation couldn't continue.

"There was quite a bit of discussion at the meeting and not everyone was in favour of winding up the club but there was a big majority voted with the proposal," said Mr Dickinson, 66, who has been a member since 1984 and has held various posts including captain and president.

He took up the secretarial duties three years ago.

"We have done as much as we can to keep things going but it is simply not financially viable any more and we thought with subscriptions due this month, the time would be right now to make the decision.

"It's a very sad state of affairs but things just couldn't go on as they were."

He said membership of the club, which was founded in 1927, currently totalled about 114 – around half the figure of three years ago.

"Expenditure is continuing to rise while income is falling and you simply can't sustain that," added Mr Dickinson.

"The club used to be incredibly well supported but for various reasons membership has dwindled.

"People have got older, some have moved away and others have perhaps gone to other clubs where friends play. There are many reasons.

"The reality is we don't have enough members, particularly at the younger end.

"We've looked at different options – some courses offer deals, for example – but the bottom line is it is difficult nowadays to attract new people.

"To see the club have to close is a massive blow to everyone."

It is unknown at present what will happen to the 18-hole Howden Rough site, at Elam Wood Road.

The clubhouse belongs to the club while the course is owned by Bradford Council.

"We will be using an insolvency agent," said Mr Dickinson.

"It will be in his hands."

Over the years the course, famed for its hilly terrain and spectacular views, has hosted numerous charity fundraising tournaments.

Notable amongst them was an annual event in aid of Epilepsy Action.