The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Golf (APPGG) has admitted defeat in its bid to keep courses open during the upcoming lockdown in England.

The APPGG wrote to Boris Johnson on behalf of England Golf, the PGA, the R&A and other leading groups from across the industry.

The intention was to make the case for golf to be exempt from tightened restrictions, which come into force today.

However, the group’s chair, North Warwickshire MP Craig Tracey, now believes there is “no more that can be done” to persuade the government to change its position.

England Golf chief executive Jeremy Tomlinson has contacted the organisation’s members to confirm the news.

Tomlinson wrote: “It is with a feeling of deep regret that we must now inform all affiliated golf clubs and driving ranges that they should prepare to close from Thursday 5 November until Wednesday 2 December 2020.”

He added: “The government engaged in detailed conversation, but has decided not to amend its original guidance.”