22 Jan 2014

European ruling means HMRC could foot the bill for clubs

European ruling means HMRC could foot the bill for clubs news article image

A landmark ruling in the European courts could mean that clubs will soon be able to claim back VAT.

Bridport and West Dorset golf club won its case on charging VAT on green fees to non-members in the European Courts.

The ruling means that not-for-profit golf clubs will be eligible to claim back VAT that has been paid by non-members on their green fees .

While this is a significant development within the golf sector, it could also impact on other not-for-profit sports clubs offering more casual pay and play sporting services to non-members and members, for example pay and play tennis.

The Alliance will continue to monitor developments in this area and we will work with our tax advisors to examine the implications for the sector.

In the meantime, if you have any questions contact David Foster.

Latest News

17 Sep 2025

National Inclusion Week - Reshaping Sport So Girls Belong

As we mark National Inclusion Week, we spotlight our member Women in Sport, a charity that for over 40 years has been dedicated to understanding and breaking down the barriers that hold girls and women back from the opportunities and lifelong benefits of sport and activity.

Read more Arrow Right
16 Sep 2025

Spirit of Sport and Recreation Award nominations open ahead of 90th anniversary celebration

Nominations for the Alliance’s annual Spirit of Sport and Recreation Award are open ahead of the organisation’s 90th anniversary celebration event, which has been confirmed for St James’s Palace in November.

Read more Arrow Right
15 Sep 2025

Celebrating National Inclusion Week Through Sport and Activity

Sport and activity should be for everyone, everywhere. This National Inclusion Week, we celebrate progress while calling for change to break down the barriers disabled people continue to face.

Read more Arrow Right

Become a member

Joining the Sport and Recreation Alliance is pretty simple, but worthwhile!

Register now

Our Partners

Admincontrol logoAir IT logoGateley Legal logoSport:80 logoZellar logo93FT logo