With the changing course conditions as we move into the wetter months, the Club will introduce Preferred Lies on closely mown areas of the course from Wednesday 16th September . This is intended to help protect the playing surfaces and provide a fair and consistent playing experience for all members. The Rule – Model Local Rule E-3 When your ball lies on a closely mown area, you may: Lift and clean your ball. Place it within 6 inches (15cm) of its original position. The ball must not be placed nearer the hole. (This applies to fairways, approaches and aprons, as well as closely mown areas on Par 3s — for example, Embley 3rd and Blackwater 9th) Preferred Lies do not apply in the rough or other areas that are not closely mown. Embedded Balls The normal Rule 16.3 for an embedded ball continues to apply. If your ball is embedded in its own pitch-mark in the general area, you may take relief in accordance with Rule 16.3, regardless of whether the ball is in a Preferred Lie area. Penalty for Breach of Local Rule: General Penalty — Loss of Hole in Match Play / Two Strokes in Stroke Play. Thank you for your cooperation and for helping us protect the course during the wetter months. Happy Golfing!