Petition to save Browns now online — here's how to support it

Tributes came flooding in earlier this month when the popular attraction announced plans to close following almost 90 years of service to the community.

The Change.org appeal was created by Paul Coueslant last week, and has so far received more than 1,200 signatures.

Paul said: "Browns Golf Course on Sandown seafront faces the threat of development by the Isle of Wight Council and its partners.

The course has undergone a drastic change since Clare Oatley, John Deacon and Cheryl Brazer (pictured) took the reins

"Browns is a fantastic haven for wildlife. The newly created Willow Walk around the golf courses offers a great way to explore the natural environment, all part of the UNESCO Isle of Wight Biosphere Reserve.

"The courses and cafe will close on Sunday September 27. Sadly, it could mean the end of seaside pitch and putt on the Isle of Wight forever."

The petition has been launched with the support of history group Our Sandown and community group Sandown HUB.

It aims to persuade the Isle of Wight Council to acknowledge the unique heritage of Browns and guarantee its long-term protection.

Browns has been a popular attraction along Sandown seafront since 1932

Change.org petitions which receive 10,000 signatures get a response from the Government. Those with 100,000 signatures are considered for debate in Parliament.

Browns was officially opened in 1932 by famous golfers Henry Cotton and Joe Kirkwood, and in recent years has boasted two nine-hole pitch and putt courses and two 18-hole full courses, as well as hosting a range of events in the cafe.

Clare Oatley, a member of the family which has run Browns since 2013, said: "We hope the council allow someone to take this on as the cafe has become a hub for people of all ages."