Staffordshire golf clubs launch summer taster sessions

Staffordshire golf clubs have announced summer taster sessions and coaching schemes to encourage more people to try the sport.

Six Staffordshire based-courses and driving ranges are offering families and youngsters discounted sessions to drive sporting participation.

County development officer for the Staffordshire County Golf Partnership Sean Hammill said it's a sport which gives a great lifestyle as well as fitness.

"These schemes give anyone interested in trying golf the ideal opportunity to give it a go alongside people in a similar situation.

"It is a sport that offers a healthier lifestyle and, with the potential for club membership in the future, an enjoyable social life, too," he added.

The Guy Dean Golf Academy at Penn GC, near Wolverhampton, is running a junior coaching programme for all abilities between 3pm and 6pm which focusses on the basic set-up and grip, putting, chipping, short and long irons and course management.

For more information contact Guy Dean on 01902 330472, Malcolm Woodward on 07414 685062 or email info@guydeangolfacademy.co.uk

Stone Driving Range, near Stafford, is running a wide range of activities for juniors during the school holidays. For further information contact Chris Milward on 07896 661050, email cmilward@hotmail.co.uk or visit www.stonedrivingrange.co.uk.

Lichfield Golf & CC is offering low cost beginners coaching. The five one-hour group lessons cost just £15 per person, including a free golf club. Ladies-only groups also take place from September 8 between 2pm to 3pm, with mixed adult groups starting on September 16 from 1pm to 2pm and October 8 from 1pm to 2pm. For further details contact PGA pro Ian Jones on 01543 417 333.

The Chase Golf Club, Penkridge, is running two-day golf camps in August for juniors, which cost £40 with start dates including August 2 to 3; 9 to 10; 16 to 17 and 23 to 24. For more information contact 01785 712888.

Brocton Hall GC, in Staffordshire, is holding a summer junior golf academy with PGA professional Jon Watts, covering all aspects of the game. Dates include August 6 to 7; 20 to 21 and 30 to 31, running from 9am to 3.30pm. For further information contact Jon on 01785 661 485 or emailing jonathanwatts@golfacademy.uk.com.

Stafford Castle GC is catering for the ladies with taster sessions taking place on July 31 and August 7 and 14. To make a booking, contact 01543 411130.

At the John Letters Centre in Walsall families can receive beginners coaching on August 11 and 25, where sessions will cost £5. Contact Academy Director Paul Hebdon on 01922 613675 or email paulhebdon@johnletters.com for more information or to book sessions.