This is one of the toughest opening holes in Cheshire – with a demanding drive over a deep depression to a narrow fairway constricted between two bunkers on the left and trees and a nasty pit on the right. At this point, too, the fairway begins to move slightly to the right and a drive of at least 270 yards is required to pass the second fairway bunker. Even then the approach shot is lengthy, especially when playing into the prevailing wind. There are no bunkers guarding the green but dead ground in front of it somewhat foreshortens its appearance. If the pin is located on the right of the green it is all too easy for the approach shot to slip off the putting surface. For the higher-handicap player the round can start disastrously with early skirmishes with the depression, pit and trees.
