Call to end golf ball bombardment

Residents say it will be a matter of time before someone is hurt

Homes in Gloucester have been fitted with armoured glass and grills because youngsters are bombarding them with golf balls from a nearby driving range.

People living in the Red Well Road area of Matson said damage had been caused and someone could be seriously hurt.

More than 3,000 balls from the Ramada Hotel golf course have been collected from local gardens.

A hotel spokesman said a meeting was being held with a local councillor on Friday to see what could be done.

One resident, Cliff Badham, 89, said he had the shock of his life when a ball smashed through his front door.

"It was just like the crack of a rifle. Bang. It frightened me, I tell you," he said.

You're living on a knife edge all the time. Lynn Hayes

Paul and Lynn Hayes have had armoured glass fitted to the front of their home after repeated experiences.

"These children are getting the balls off the range and driving them towards the bungalows and flats at the back," said Mr Hayes.

"It's just fun for them, but it's just a matter of time before somebody gets struck with one and it'll be too late then."

His wife added: "My husband was nearly hit by one last summer, he was out here pottering around.

"It shot past his head, knocked the door, went in and shattered ornaments on a corner unit in the hall. You're living on a knife edge all the time."

The hotel spokesman said he hoped the issue could be resolved at the meeting on Friday.