Staffordshire players clubbing together to help find new golfers

Golfers across Staffordshire are being urged to go clubbing to help find the next generation of players.

The scheme – launched by the Staffordshire County Golf Partnership – is calling on existing players to donate unwanted golf clubs which can then be used by newcomers to the sport.

Says Gareth Shaw, the Staffordshire CGP development officer: “One of the obstacles to people taking up golf that is often mentioned is the expense of having the right equipment.

“This scheme seeks to create a bank of golf clubs that can be used by people starting out in the sport, who do not need to spend money from their own pockets when trying golf for the first time.

“The project links in to the work going on in the county’s 15 Get into golf centres, which offer free taster sessions and discounted coaching lessons which means starting out in golf need not be as expensive as many people might think.

“Clubs across the county are also offering flexible and affordable ways of becoming a member which again shows that getting involved in the sport, and enjoying its many health and social benefits, does not need to break the bank!”

Clubs can be donated at any of the county’s Get into golf centres, which can be found at Lichfield Golf and Country Club, Barlaston, near Stone, Wolstanton, Onneley, The Chase Golf and Country Club at Penkridge, Branston Golf and Country Club, Drayton Park, The Golf Academy at Essington, 3 Hammers Golf Complex at Coven, Mark Butler Golf Centre, Penn Golf Club, Stone Golf Club & Driving Range, Keele Driving Range, John Letter Golf Academy Walsall and Calderfields Golf Club

The CGP has also enjoyed great support from American Golf Stoke, who kindly donated a number of sets of irons and wood clubs.

The scheme ran for the first time in 2013 when more than 500 clubs were donated to provide a starting point for those looking to give golf a go.

Further details are available on the CGP website www.staffsgolfpartnership.com

Get into golf is a national campaign to inspire new golfers run by the England Golf Partnership through its network of County Golf Partnerships, which work to grow the game.

Get into golf opportunities include free or low-cost beginner courses with PGA professionals. They are a fun and sociable way to start golf – and a great way to make new friends.

Discounted lessons can cost as little as £25 for a five-week course.

To find your nearest centre visit getintogolf.org and look at the activity map or call 0800 118 2766

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