AN ARDROSSAN club which will soon celebrate it’s 175th anniversary could be at risk – because of the threat of the much- feared Japanese Knotweed plant.  Ardrossan Outdoor Bowling Club, in Kilmeny Terrace, was founded in 1842 and boasts two of the best greens in the county but they could come under threat from the plant that is notoriously difficult to control.

But McLaughlin’s builders, who own the land where the knotweed is currently inhabiting, insist they are tackling the problem.  Ardrossan’s greenkeeper, Peter Angus (pictured), has been looking after the greens for 15 years and in that time, he said, the knotweed has got within six feet of the boundary fence at the club.  He added: “The knotweed started away over past the railway bridge in grounds that belonged to St Peters at the time.  “This was around 14 or 15 years ago and it has crept along to within six feet of the club fence.

“This could have a serious impact, so much so I have heard Tarbolton Bowling Club have had to shut their green.” But McLaughlin’s insist they are doing what they can to stop the spread of the plant.  Paul McLaughlin said: “There are some areas of Knotweed, probably originating from some dumped waste or some other unknown source, not connected with the land or ourselves.

“This was brought to our attention and a course of eradication treatment was undertaken last August and September – the season specialists recommend for such treatment.

“Courses of treatment are planned this year to any further growth areas as part of the overall plan to eradicate it.

“Unfortunately this is becoming a problem throughout the UK, however in this instance a programme is in place and being carried out.

“Should the greenkeeper wish to identify any area of concern and advise us of this we will incorporate this in this year`s plan or allow him to carry out own treatment works if preferred.” For the full story see this week's Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald.