Playing from the green when its closed

[backwoodsman]

Ta. The answers sort of confirm what I was thinking. We need a better physical definition or delineation of what comprises the winter green - and possibly a local rule.

 

[rulefan]

never come across this 'myth', this local to a certain geographical area I wonder? or maybe every club and player I've known knows the rules well

I think many people who don't know the rule (and this is one not frequently encountered or explained by clubs), have a reluctance to damage the main green by using a wedge say, so will use their putter. This is particularly so where the winter hole is on the apron in front of the green. This seen by others and assumed to be the rule.

In my experience, it is widespread.