AN unnamed businessman trying to save Taunton Vale Golf Club has tabled a comparable bid to the one already in place proposing to convert the club into agricultural land.

The new bid gives the retiring owners the opportunity to fulfil their wishes that Taunton Vale Golf Club remains in existence and is being given the chance to flourish in the future.

The new prospective buyer wishes to purchase the golf club as a going concern and has stated that he has funds to further develop both the club and the golf course.

Members Chris Pratt and Norman White say they both know the prospective buyer and back his integrity and his plans regarding the future development of the club.

John Paterson, who has been trying to co-ordinate a members buyout, says so far over £360,000 has been pledged.

He said: "I have been informed that a meeting of the owners, chairman and agent is due to take place tomorrow (Friday), when a decision regarding the future of the club is likely to be made.

" Unfortunately we will not be in the position to place a members’ bid before this meeting.

"The first intention was to save the club and at the time it appeared that the only way this could be done was with a members’ buyout.

"We are now in the situation where we do have someone who has the finances to save the club.

"In the circumstances, I believe we, the members, should embrace his plan to keep the club open and encourage the present owners to accept his bid.

"Once again thanks for the support in making us get heard, ultimately, if the bid is accepted, we have achieved our aim in saving the golf club."