For Blackwell Grange Golf Club, delivering high-quality surfaces year-round is a key priority. However, like many, the Darlington-based club faced an ongoing challenge with several greens which were prone to holding surface water during prolonged periods of rainfall. That was until the club discovered Hydrowick drainage from Djuke, which has proven to be a reliable, long-term solution to wet weather issues helping the club to maintain better playing conditions and upholding their ongoing commitment to course quality.

Despite a comprehensive maintenance programme and existing drainage infrastructure, certain greens remained susceptible to softer surfaces, slower recovery and reduced playability during wet weather as Richard Pybus, Head of Greens, explains. “We knew we needed to take action, after hearing positive feedback from industry contacts and other golf clubs, we identified Hydrowick as a potential solution for some of our most problematic greens.”

The first phase of the work was carried out several years ago, which saw Djuke install Hydrowick on the 8th, 9th and 10th greens. With the objective of improving water movement and removing excess moisture more effectively, the results quickly exceeded expectations. “We saw noticeable improvements in drainage, firmness and turf health. The only question we had was when could we get another batch done?!”

“We invited Djuke back in March 2026, where we installed Hydrowick in a further four greens.” Richard continues, “We had no doubts this was the right decision given that, years on, the 8th, 9th and 10th continue to outperform many other areas of the course during wet weather.”

The installation process was completed efficiently and with minimal disruption in play, even when the team encountered an unforeseen pipe crossing on one of the proposed drainage lines. “Djuke simply adapted the design on-site, resolving the issue without compromising the effectiveness of the finished system.” He adds, “The team were incredibly professional, approachable and highly knowledgeable throughout and the quality of the workmanship is first class.”

Hydrowick now forms an important part of Blackwell Grange’s broader agronomic programme, which includes aeration, rope drainage maintenance, sand injection, topdressing, wetting agents and other cultural practices. “Without question we’ll be looking at additional greens in the future and we’d have no hesitation in recommending Djuke and Hydrowick to anyone looking for an effective greens drainage system.”