Proving that prevention is the best cure a significant number of courses have been investing in extra security designed at eliminating on course theft; a scourge which, if not endemic on the Costa del Golf, is certainly on the increase. With the economic downturn and slackening of   border restrictions some unsavoury elements -often working in gangs - have turned to crime to pounce on unsuspecting golfers leaving their bags or buggies unattended near greens, buggy paths or gaps in fences which afford easy access.

Without wishing to put a dampener on any visitor or resident interested in booking a green fee - after all, theft of belongings is not confined to our fairways - the golf courses themselves should be applauded for not sweeping the problem under the carpet and employing proactive counter-measures: Atalaya Golf has followed Calanova's lead by installing safety deposit boxes (pictured) within their whole fleet of buggies. These are securely riveted in with the key available from the caddy master. At Santa Clara (pictured) and El Chaparral the complimentary lockers are to be found in the pro shop and starter's hut respectively; ample-sized to fit a small bag and all one's personal belongings. Just remember to take enough money out on the course to cover for one's drinks and snacks.

Andres Sanchez, Director of Golf at Atalaya Golf, stressed the importance of promoting these amenities: "Even with the courtesy safety deposit boxes in the buggies, and 40 stationary security lockers in the caddy master's office, (installed at the cost of 6,000€) we are still finding that, even after being advised about the potential dangers some clients are still turning a blind eye and leaving their wallets and mobile phones in the 'glove com pa rtm nets' in the buggies.

You have been warned!