Northern Golfer magazine #43 - May 2016

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EDITOR Paul Robertson editor@northerngolfer.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS Dean Bailey 07792 608 162 dean@offstonepublishing.co.uk Paul Corney 07521 389 536 pcorney@northerngolfer.co.uk Alan Hedley 07570 797 566 ahedley@northerngolfer.co.uk John Harrison 01661 886 400 john.harrison@matfenhall.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Gillian Corney 01661 845 026 07903 500 401 gillian@offstonepublishing.co.uk PHOTOGRAPHY Nicky Rogerson info@nrphotography.co.uk Peter Skelton www.photo-psp.co.uk

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EDITOR’S NOTE AND CONTENTS Can you imagine bogeying the first and being six over-par for your round?

It is the stuff of dreams for most club golfers, or nightmares for those with a plus handicap.

Thankfully, for City of Newcastle’s Phil Ridden, it doesn’t happen that often. In a fascinating interview, England’s lowest handicapper tells us about his experience as a pro, and why he decided to return to the amateur ranks - a move which has paid dividends.

Unfortunately, one of our European Tour players, Chris Paisley, is having a tough time of it at the moment, as you will read in his searingly honest column on page 31. It reveals just how tough life can be for golfers much better than most of us when their form slips. Still, as he recognises himself, I am sure many of us would happily swap places with him.

Among those who could make the move in the future are juniors Jack Ainscough and Jack Hermeston, two of the North East’s most promising young player, both of whom have high aspirations but their feet firmly planted on the ground.

Their stories are among a number to feature juniors in this edition, alongside efforts by a number of clubs to encourage more young people to take up the sport so many of us love.

Yorkshireman Danny Willett’s Augusta triumph has created a real buzz and it is important clubs capatlise on this.

In this issue we also look ahead to some of the big events taking place in the region and suggest who to watch on the EuroPro tour. We also review two great courses in Crook and Skipton, and we take a trip around Northumberland.

Finally, we end this month’s note with a plea to lady golfers. Following our popular men’s Match Play Pairs competition, we were approached organise an event for the many female golfers in the region.

Last year’s inaugural Ladies Greensomes event proved a great success, so we repeated the format. However, entries have been a little slow coming in so we have extended the deadline to the end of this month. It is only £10 to enter and there are great prizes on offer thanks to Matfen Hall.

You have to be in it to win it so turn to page 51 and give it a crack.

04-15 TEEING OFF

Amateur success for Wilson, Hermeston and Wharton, and two PGA wins for Scrimshaw

12 ONES TO WATCH

We pick five players to watch on the EuroPro Tour this season

18-25 TEEING OFF

Movers and shakers, Junior Tour returns, and Moortown news

26 PRO-FILE

Darlington’s Simon Calvert

31 TOUR LIFE

Life on the European Tour with Chris Paisley

32-35 GOLFER NEWS From around the region

36-43 GO NORTH

We visit some of our favourite courses in Northumberland

Paul Robertson, editor editor@northerngolfer.co.uk

FRONT COVER

We catch up with England’s lowest-handicapped golfer, Phil Ridden

44 TIPS

Pages 30-32

Think like a pro

46-47 GOLF GEAR When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it ©Offstone Publishing 2016. All rights reserved.

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Plus In the Bag with Branden Grace

16 CROOK GOLF CLUB

48 SKIPTON GOLF CLUB

50 COMPETITIONS

Win golf for four at Dumfries & County, Powfoot, and Whickham

51 MATCH PLAY PAIRS Prelim round draw for Match Play Pairs, and last chance to enter Ladies Greensomes

54 BUNKER

Stories and pictures from around the region NORTHERN GOLFER 03

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04 NORTHERN GOLFER

Juan Miguel Heredia (© BUCS)

Top scholars Durham and Nortumbria universities take top spots at Tour Finals

D

urham University’s Juan Miguel Heredia closed the British Universities and Colleges Sport Golf Tour with a win at the Tour Finals at Crail Golfing Society in Fife as teammate James Glenn took third place, and Northumbria University’s Andrew Wilson finished second.

Heredia, who plays out of Brancepeth Golf Club, shot rounds of 70, 73, 71 and 70 for a four under-par total in Scotland and a two-shot win over Wilson.

American Glenn, who is also based at Brancepeth Golf Club and represented Durham in their opening match of the season against Lancashire, was a further shot back on one-under par alongside Stirling University’s Mathias Eggenberger.

In the BUCS League, Northumbria 1st won the Premier North division with seven wins in the mixed team format. Durham 1sts finished in third place, while Northumbria also won the Northern 1A division.

Up to the Challenge Northumberland’s Garrick Porteous got off to a quick start on the Challenge Tour with a second place finish in the Red Sea Egyptian Challenge Presented by Hassan Allam Properties.

Former Amateur Champion Porteous, who picked up 14,400 Road to Oman points with the result,

shot rounds of 69, 69, 66 and 68 to finish in a tie for second place in Egypt, two shots behind winner Jordan Smith.

Garrick Porteous

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On a roll

Close House’s Andrew Scrimshaw picks up second and third PGA wins of the season

A

ndrew Scrimshaw continued his early season form in April and May with wins in the PGA North Region and on the NE/NW PGA. Scrimshaw, who is based at Close House in Northumberland, followed his win in Spain earlier this year on the NE/NW PGA circuit with success at the Titleist & FootJoy PGA Professional Championship North Qualifier at Fulford Golf Club. His three under-par 69 gave Scrimshaw the win alongside John Wells.

“To shoot three under-par on my first trip to Fulford was great,” said Scrimshaw. “I played some really solid golf, hitting 16 greens, and I was really happy with my game tee-to-green. I saw the leaderboard on the 13th and the score to beat was two under-par.

Andrew Scrimshaw

I managed to make birdie there, hit five more solid approach shots and make the two birdies I needed coming in. The win opens a few more doors, including the PGA Championship as well as events in the North Region.”

Following the win, Scrimshaw

progresses to the Titleist & FootJoy PGA Professional Championship, alongside 12 more qualifiers from the North, where the leading players will secure exemptions for the European Tour’s flagship event, the BMW PGA Championship at the Belfry.

In the NE/NW PGA Pro Am Day at Rockliffe Hall in May, Scrimshaw led the field with a round of 69, two better than Wynyard’s Callum Tarren.

“To get a third win so early in the year was fantastic. I’ve got a great

team around me with Andy Paisley and Duncan McCarthy as well as the support of VEGA, Galvin Green and Skechers.

“We’re working hard on improving every day whether it’s on the course, in the gym or on the mental side of the game.

“This year is all about putting good processes in place and sticking to them – to get this early success is a huge confidence boost and I’m looking forward to the rest of the season.”

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Willett for Wentworth

Danny Willett will enjoy a hero’s homecoming when he tees it up in the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth in May. The 28-year-old Yorkshireman claimed his first major title at Augusta National to secure the Green Jacket in April, and the latest addition to his wardrobe will accompany him to Surrey, where the 100,000-plus spectators will be eager to offer their congratulations on becoming the first European Masters champion since 1999 and the first English winner since 1996.

“I’m looking forward to playing in the BMW PGA Championship and taking the Green Jacket down to Wentworth,” said Willett, who is currently enjoying some welldeserved time off with his wife, Nicole, and son, Zachariah, born 12 days before his father’s win in Georgia.

“It’s a special week and the atmosphere is brilliant with every hole lined with fans. It’s always nice to compete in your home country and I can’t wait to play in front of the home supporters, and hopefully give them something to cheer about.”

Willett won his first European Tour title at the BMW International Open in 2012, before adding two more last season in South Africa and Switzerland to push Rory McIlroy all the way in the Race to Dubai, ultimately finishing second.

He has continued in the same vein in 2016, claiming the Omega Dubai Desert Classic in January before an impressive third-place finish in the first WGC event of the season in March.

Joining Willett in a star-studded field at Wentworth are Matthew Fitzpatrick, Søren Kjeldsen, Justin Rose and Close House’s Lee Westwood, all of whom finished in the top 10 at Augusta.

06 NORTHERN GOLFER

Jack Ainscough with Graeme Storm

Jack’s the lad to watch Durham teenager goes so close in England Boys Open

H

artlepool youngster Jack Ainscough further enhanced his reputation at national level with a runner-up finish in the English Boys Open.

Representing Dyke House College and Hartlepool Golf Club, Ainscough just missed out on the Peter McEvoy Trophy at Copt Heath by a couple of shots, but the result is a significant marker in the 16-year-old’s golfing career.

Ryder Cup stars Lee Westwood and Justin Rose are among those with their names on the McEvoy Trophy and Ainscough has set his sights on adding his name to it next year as part of his ambition to reach the top of the amateur game.

At Copt Heath Ainscough finished two shots behind Kilkenny’s Mark Power. He said: “It was a good week. I didn’t play my best to be honest, but it gives me huge confidence knowing I can still compete in a massive international championship when I’m only performing at 75%.”

Ainscough followed an opening round of 73 with a 68 before a third round of 72 and a final round of 66 to finish a shot clear of Dunston Hall’s Toby Briggs. Frilford Heath’s Nicholas Elmey and Hexham’s Matty Lamb were a further shot back.

Already an England Boys international, Ainscough identified the McEvoy Trophy as a key early outing and hopes his strong finish will lead to more opportunities.

“Hopefully big things will come from this competition, like more scholarship offers from US colleges and more caps for England.

“I’ll be playing in the Peter McEvoy Trophy next year when hopefully I can go one better and lift the trophy.”

Ainscough became the youngest club champion in Hartlepool’s history last June and the Shotton-born teenager has been capped for England Schools and England Boys under the watchful eye of coach Andrew Nicholson and mentor Graeme Storm.

He added: “If you want to be the best you have to beat the best. That’s sport. I’m told I have a good temperament to start with, so nobody needs to tell me to get out there and do something.

“I am the one doing it because to be the best you have to sacrifice things. I want to look back at the age of 25 or 30 and think I could not have done anything more to be world number one.”

Ainscough is part of the golf scholarship programme at Dyke House Sixth Form College where he has European Tour pro Storm guiding him. He has also been a regular on the Durham County coaching circuit from an early age, where Wynyard’s Nicholson has worked on his game.

“Stormy has taught me some valuable course management and how to play the game,” said Ainscough, “I had a few swing changes to make over the winter which have gone really well and helped me massively.”

He is studying A-levels in sport, business and politics, and is keeping his options open - although turning professional or taking up a golfing scholarship is a clear possibility.

“First, I want to win a national competition and to get picked for the Great Britain and Ireland team to face Europe in the under 18s.

“My long-term goal as an amateur is to play the Walker Cup. “If I keep putting in the hard work I know it will pay off in the future.”

TEEINGOFF

Mark Wharton with the North and South Trophy

On the Mark

Home win for Newcastle United

M

ark Wharton continued the tradition of Newcastle United players winning Northumberland’s season opener, the North and South Trophy.

Twice a winner of the Northumberland County Boys title, Wharton, now 27, has waited a while for his first major county win. Making use of his home advantage, he returned scores of 71 and 69 for a four underpar total and a three-shot margin of victory.

Defending champion Andrew Minnikin (The Northumberland) failed

to continue his remarkable record in strokeplay events, finishing in a tie for second place with rounds of 72 and 71 alongside Tynemouth’s Stuart Fell (69, 74).

Following his first county win, Wharton said: “My ball striking was good all day and I putted pretty well, but it was tough out there and the greenstaff really deserve a lot of praise for getting the course into such good condition given the weather we’ve had.”

Next up in Northumberland is the 72-hole Strokeplay Championship at Arcot Hall May 21-22

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Futureproofing at Bedlington Junior golf is a big priority at Bedlingtonshire Golf Club.

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NORTHERN GOLFER 07

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Nicola wins wire-to-wire

Will power Skipp continues his impressive form to retain crown

J

Yorkshire’s Nicola Slater and Nottinghamshire’s Matt Freeman scooped the honours in the English U16 Championship at Hawkstone Park.

England squad member Slater, from Hickleton, and Freeman (Rufford Park) both completed wire-to-wire in the event with Slater, 16, recording a three under-par 70 in her first round. She followed up with scores of 73 and 77 on the Hawkstone course for a three overpar total after 54 holes.

ack Trewhitt and Will Skipp were in the winner’s circle at the Durham Schools Championship at Beamish Park.

The Castle Eden and Eaglescliffe teenagers picked up the under 18 and under 16 titles respectively.

The event was also the first time Trewhitt, representing Peterlee’s Byron Sixth Form, had played in the championships and he claimed the under 18 title with a round of 72.

Meanwhile 14-year-old Skipp shot a round of 73 to finish in second spot in the under 18 category and retain the under 16 crown he won 12 months ago.

In the girls’ championship, Jessica Hall, from Bishop Auckland, shot a round of 77 to win by one shot from fellow student Katie Atkinson.

The girls’ under 16 event was won

for the third time by Tanfield School’s Alex Stevenson with a round of 81.

In the Northumberland Championships at Prudhoe Golf Club, 15-year-old Francesca Chilton from Hexham was the star of the show.

Playing in the event for the first time, Francesca, from Queen Elizabeth High School, won the senior girls’ title as well as the under 16 championship.

Her round of 81 was two shots clear of 15-year-old Jessica Baker of Westfield, who carded an 83.

The boys title was much closer run with England under 16 international James Wilson (Walbottle Campus) carding a 75 to win on countback from Mathew Wood (Whitley Bay High School) and Jack Johnston (Haydon Bridge High School).

Will Skipp

BRANCEPETH CASTLE GOLF CLUB JUNIOR MEMBERSHIP Enjoy Junior Golf up to the age of 18 for less than £20 per annum Junior Coaching with David Fletcher Durham County Junior Coach Saturday’s 4 – 5pm - Tuesday’s 5 – 6pm Junior Members Free - Non Members - £5 per session

OPEN COMPETITIONS Men’s Team of 4 – Saturday 24th September - £64 per team Men’s Pairs – Sunday 29th May, Saturday 2nd July and Saturday 13th August - £32 per pair Seniors Pairs – Thursday 4th August - £28 per pair Mixed Pairs – Monday 30th May & Sunday 4th September - £30 per pair

Telephone - 0191 3780075 Option 2 or email enquiries@brancepeth-castlegolf.co.uk Competition & Golf bookings available online at www.brancepeth-castle-golf.co.uk THE CLUBHOUSE, BRANCEPETH, DH7 8EA 08 NORTHERN GOLFER

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contact: secretary@rytongolfclub.co.uk Phil Ridden, captain Simon Bowman and Alex Dixon

City slickers

Victory for Newcastle duo at Newbiggin

T

here seems to be no stopping the City of Newcastle Golf Club.

The reigning Northumberland First Division Champions and 2015 Newcastle and District League winners picked up the first major county trophy of the year with victory in the final of the Northumberland and Durham InterCounty Foursomes at Newbiggin.

Having battled through six rounds involving 70 clubs and played four weekends of matches, Phil Ridden and Alex Dixon got the better of Eaglescliffe’s Tom Smith and Will Skipp 3&2 in the final, which was played in rain, snow, hailstones and strong winds - as well as sunshine.

With four holes flooded at the top end of the course, the championship would be decided with the first, second, 17th and 18th played twice if required.

The opening holes remained close with both pairs scoring well before Ridden and Dixon won the 13th and 14th holes (Newbiggin’s 17th and

18th) for a two-up lead heading back down the first.

The first was halved before Ridden sank a birdie putt at the second to seal the win.

The win was the City’s 11th intercounty foursomes title - they last won in 2009. Eaglescliffe finished runnersup for a fourth time, their last win in the event coming in 1983.

The team from City of Newcastle also won the Newcastle and District League title last season with a record points total of 144 with players including Ridden, Dixon, Jack Hermeston, Mark McCarthy, Steve Slater, Jonny Todd, Simon Coultas, Gary Owen and Neil Elborn.

Ridden and Dixon also teamed up with Hermeston to run away with the Northumberland County First Division Teams Championship at Prudhoe last year. This year’s captain Simon Bowman will, no doubt, be looking to retain both those titles later this summer.

More from Phil Ridden on pages 30-32.

Telephone: 0191 4133253 or www.rytongolfclub.co.uk

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Money flooding in

Weather-hit courses receive £50,000 of help

N

orthern clubs have received more than £50,000 from Sport England to help them repair damage caused by winter floods.

The awards from the Emergency Flood Relief Fund ranged from £2,000-£5,000 with only one club’s application refused and another deferred for more information.

Bellingham (£2,023), Catterick (£2,131), Easingwold (£3,000), Heworth (£4,750), Hobson (£2,000), Ravensworth (£5,000), Rothbury (£4,500), South Moor (£4,926), Stocksfield (£4,400) and Tynedale (£5,000) were among the clubs from Northumberland, Durham and

Yorkshire which received help.

Abbie Lench, England Golf ’s head of club support, said: “We’re pleased that so many clubs were able to access the emergency fund, it has been gratefully received.

“Sport England has produced some additional guidance around flood planning and flood prevention, and clubs which would like to find out more can email info@englandgolf.org” South Moor in Durham was closed for more than four weeks after persistent rain flooded the course, damaging paths and one of the greens where a drain collapsed.

When the course re-opened golfers who relied on buggies were

South Moor Golf Club unable to play because of the damage to the paths.

The club received £4,926 towards the costs of repairs and Guy Carr, a member of the club’s general committee, said: “The grant application was very straightforward, we had a reply within 10 days telling us we would get the money.

“We couldn’t believe how fast it was, they were fantastic.”

Flood damage at South Moor

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10 NORTHERN GOLFER

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City of Newcastle Golf Club 2016 OPEN EVENTS 9th June – Seniors Open 4BBB Stableford £20/pair 31st August – Gents Open 2 Man Scramble £25/pair LIMITED NUMBER OF

FULL MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE Getting into golf

Moor players needed

Funding allows women to have a go for free, plus more events coming up at South Moor

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ngland Golf funding will enable women and girls to give golf a go for free at South Moor Golf Club.

During May and June, female beginners can enjoy free evening coaching sessions at the club. All equipment is provided and they can wear what they like.

Shaun Cowell, one of South Moor’s PGA professionals, said: “Women have always been regarded as equals at our club and we have taken this step to encourage women and girls to try golf as we feel the sport as a whole suffers from an unfair stereotype where women are concerned.

“Through the England Golf coaching scheme, if girls under 18 enjoy our taster sessions they can have a free series of golf lessons.”

For more details and to take part contact Shaun or fellow PGA pro Mark Ridley, tel 01207 283 525 or email professional@southmoorgc.co.uk Meanwhile, football legends Peter Beardsley, Bob Moncur, Pop Robson and Ritchie Pitt are among the stars competing in the inaugural South Moor Masters celebrity and media golf day on June 1.

The tournament has been created in memory of Dr Alister MacKenzie, who designed the South Moor course

as well as Augusta National - home of The Masters Tournament.

Moncur, Fairs Cup captain in 1969, and Pitt, a 1973 FA Cup winner whose glittering career was cruelly cut short by injury, played in the most recent Newcastle and Sunderland sides to win major trophies, and this year’s golf day is sponsored by Pin Point Recruitment.

Furthermore, the North’s top young players are rushing to sign up for the third North of England Under 14 Open at South Moor.

The tournament takes place in August and the field is already half full, including 18 youngsters with a singlefigure handicap.

The 54-hole tournament takes place August 10-12 and has attracted national backing.

Guy Carr, a member of the general committee at South Moor, said: “This time last year we had entries from around 15 boys and girls, which indicates the rising popularity of the tournament.”

Players from Hong Kong, South Africa and Spain entered last year and we have a separate section for under 12s as well as handicap competitions for the whole field and players as young as nine can compete.”

To enter, go to www.northofenglandu14golf.co.uk

JUNE-MARCH 2017 £730.00 INCLUDES ENTRANCE FEE

Ladies ‘Get into Golf ’ Free Taster Session on Saturday 14th May....

Contact Steve Mckenna on 0191 2851775 for further details. info@cityofnewcastlegolfclub.com

Newcastle United Golf Club Est.1892

Membership Introductory Offer (1st May 2016 - 31st March 2017) ONLY £500 Group Deals Available - 3 or more Junior’s from £110.00 - Ladies call for details

Society Offers 2016 Coffee & Bacon Roll / 18 Holes £20.00 Coffee & Bacon Roll / 18 Holes / Soup & Sandwich £23.00 Coffee & Bacon Roll / 18 Holes / 2 Course Meal £27.00

Summer green fees Weekday Round £18.00 Per Person Weekday Special (After 1pm) £50.00 per 4 ball Weekend Round £20.00 Per Person Weekend Special (After 1pm) £60.00 per 4 ball

60 Ponteland Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE5 3JW Tel 0191 2869998 Ext2 or email: liam1892@googlemail.com NORTHERN GOLFER 11

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Mixed fortunes for counties Durham cruised to a 14-4 win in the Northern Counties League warm-up game against the County Juniors at Roseberry Grange.

Down 5-1 after the foursomes only Ryan Dixon and Josh Hogarth managed a win - there was a good win for youngster Jack Ainscough over England Mid Amateur and Durham County champion Richard Aisbitt, and a victory for Jack Trewhitt. Meanwhile James Wilson and Ryan Dixon got halves while the seniors took the other singles points.

The Lothians gave Northumberland a bit of a wakeup call in their friendly match at Ponteland. Northumberland cruised to a 5-1 lead in the foursomes but were hauled back in the singles and needed wins from Matty Lamb, Alex Dixon, Kris Wylam, Russell Hayhoe and Seton Wakenshaw to edge a 9.5-8.5 win.

Yorkshire’s preparations for the defence of the Northern Counties League title started well with a 16-2 win over Derbyshire, but a 11.56.5 defeat by Lincolnshire provided much food for thought.

Marian’s top job Marian Rae has taken office as the new president of England Golf.

Marian, from Lindrick Golf Club, has been a prominent figure in English women’s golf and in Yorkshire civic life.

She chaired the championship committee of the former English Women’s Golf Association (EWGA) and continued in the role after the merger which formed England Golf.

She has also been the High Sheriff of South Yorkshire, holding the office in the year of the Queen’s Golden Jubilee, and is a deputy lieutenant for South Yorkshire.

Three new female members have also been elected to the Board of England Golf: Carol Alford, Jill Dean and Carole Waights.

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l-r: Alex Wrigley David Booth Chris Halley Joe Dean and Nick McCarthy

Ones to watch Ahead of the start of this year’s EuroPro Tour, we pick five of the region’s best young players to watch this term

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he HotelPlanner.com PGA EuroPro Tour returns to the North East and Yorkshire three times this summer, with the UK’s leading tour bringing the best up-and-coming professionals to Close House, Moor Allerton and Longhirst Hall.

A host of our region’s best young players feature regularly on the EuroPro Tour, the UK’s third-tier satellite to the European Tour, and this season they will be playing for a £10,000 winner’s prize from a £50,000 pot at each event. At the end of the season, the top five on the Race To Desert Springs Order of Merit will be awarded a card for the 2017 Challenge Tour, while European Tour Q School exceptions can also be earned through EuroPro success.

Here, we pick five men to watch this season: Alex Wrigley Hartlepool Golf Club’s Alex Wrigley was part of the victorious Great Britain & Ireland team at last season’s PGA Cup in the US, seeing off their transatlantic counterparts in the biennial match for the Llandudno International Trophy which pits a team of GB&I pros against their American counterparts in a Ryder Cup-style contest.

The 25-year-old has five seasons of EuroPro Tour experience under his belt and finished a career-best 24th on the Race To Desert Springs in 2015. That result gave him full playing rights for this summer and, should he find a maiden tour victory, he will be well fancied to finish in the all-important top five this time around.

David Booth David Booth won the EuroPro Tour’s Qualifying School when he joined the tour in 2014. He finished a solid 45th in the rankings that season but made a

shaky start last summer, missing the first four cuts.

He recovered to finish 26th on the Race To Desert Springs and if he can hit the ground running this year he will be confident of a successful season.

A top-class amateur before joining the pro ranks, Booth was a part of the winning European team in the Palmer Cup. Chris Halley The 2013 Yorkshire Amateur champion made great strides on the EuroPro Tour last year. Having made his debut on the tour in 2014 Halley found his feet last season, making nine cuts in the 12 events he played for a top 30 finish on the tour’s rankings. He came close to a maiden EuroPro win at Prince’s Golf Club in Kent but missed out in a play-off at the former Open Championship venue.

Joe Dean English Amateur champion Joe Dean made his professional bow earlier this year and earned full playing rights on the EuroPro Tour with a top 30 finish at Qualifying School. He claimed his English Amateur Championship crown with a resounding 9&7 victory at The Alwoodley Golf Club in Leeds last August and will he hoping to translate amateur glory into professional success.

Nick McCarthy After finishing 17th on the EuroPro Order of Merit in 2014, Moortown’s McCarthy was hoping to push into the top five last season but endured a difficult summer making just three cuts on the EuroPro Tour. That meant he had to re-qualify for this year but has returned revitalised and finished fourth from a field of 240 at the final stage of Q School in April.

A HERBERT FOWLER MASTERPIECE SINCE 1923

£125 Summer

Celebrating 125 years as one of Yorkshires finest courses.

The last two years have seen the club embark on a thoughtful re-discovery of its Fowler heritage, taking inspiration from some of Fowler’s other courses, notably Delamere Forest, the work enhances the original Fowler design, with the trees now forming more natural groups, with the 17th described as iconic.

May 2016

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Thornwick & Sea Farm Open Gents 4BBB Stableford. £25 per card Tuesday 7th June

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Bridlington Free Press Masters Open Individual Medal £16 entry fee Friday 16th September

Seniors Open AM

Gents Stableford £50 team

Full details of golf packages can be found on www.flamboroughheadgolfclub.co.uk

NORTHERN GOLFER 13

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Conference champions Northumberland’s Jack Hermeston wins US collegiate team title

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eigning Northumberland county champion Jack Hermeston has added another trophy to his CV as part of the University of Missouri – Kansas City golf team.

Hermeston, who finishes his second year in the US this summer, was part of the UMKC Roos team which won the Western Athletic Conference Championship in May – securing a trip to the NCAA

Regionals. He said: “Things are going great in the US and I’ve really enjoyed my sophomore year.

“Winning the WAC Championship is definitely the highlight of the year so far. To win as a team is very special and seeing all the hard work we’ve put in paying off is great. We head to regionals next at Oklahoma State’s home course and we’re hoping for a good result there.

CHESTER-LE-STREET GOLF CLUB HOST TO THE NORTHERN GOLFER JUNIOR CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS EVENT 2016 MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE FOR 2016 SEE OUR WEB SITE FOR DETAILS

OPENS 2016 SENIORS - 2ND AUGUST MIXED GREENSOMES - 8TH MAY GENTS - 29TH MAY LADIES - 1ST JUNE 4 MAN TEAM - 20TH AUGUST LADIES AM-AM - 24TH AUGUST Contact: Secretary 0191 388 3218 or email: clsgcoffice@tiscali.co.uk PGA Professional 0191 388 2333 Chester le Street Golf Club, Lumley Park, County Durham, DH3 4NS

www.clsgolfclub.co.uk 14 NORTHERN GOLFER

Jack Hermeston (bottom right) with his UMKC teammates “The personal highlight so far this season would have to be shooting even par earlier this season in the final round at Oak Hills Country Club, a PGA Tour venue, and leading the team in scoring with a threeround total of six over-par.”

Hermeston returns to the UK this summer to play many of the biggest amateur events, as well as defend his Northumberland County Championship. He added: “On the

course, it’s been a bit of a mixed bag this season.

“I had big expectations coming into the year but things never quite materialised. I played well in a few events, leading the team, but I was hoping for more. A bit of work with Andy Paisley on my putting over Christmas helped a lot and my full swing is feeling really good so I’m looking forward to playing in events around the UK this summer.”

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COURSEREVIEW

Take a look at Crook Alan Hedley travels into County Durham to find a course with stunning views and full of natural challenges to enjoy

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any courses are described as a hidden gem - few deserve it - but Crook certainly does.

With five par threes and three par fives, only one of them more than 500 yards, plus an overall length of just 6,076 yards, it would be easy to dismiss Crook. However this quirky, hilly course with undulating fairways and quick, sloping greens is a smashing, natural challenge.

There is a former quarry to contend with on a couple of holes on the front nine - you do 16 NORTHERN GOLFER

not want to be tangling with that - and some exhilarating views. There’s a standard opening par four, which might be tempting for the big hitters, but the green is protected by four bunkers and conservative play is best.

The challenging par three second is usually one more club than you think, but don’t be too bold as there are trees and bushes behind the green, which slopes down to the third tee.

The third is an intimidating par four with a tee shot across the quarry, and you need to

avoid a fairway bunker while a real slice could find the small pond on the eighth. The approach is also to a raised two-tier green with a bunker front right.

A long par three follows with no bunkers and it’s a small target with slopes all around the green. Again, a testing par four follows with trees and blind second shot to a green with out of bounds beyond it.

There is a birdie prospect at the short par four sixth, but you need to be accurate here as there is deep rough and out of bounds, then it’s on to a picturesque par three with a carry over the quarry to contend with – a great hole.

Avoiding the trees is key at the eighth and the front nine ends with a decent par five with options.

The fairway here slopes to the left and two decent hits will leave a wedge to a sloping green, while long hitters will fancy getting home in two.

The back nine starts with a long, testing par four and a 200-yard par three - another candidate for signature hole - most will be very happy with two pars here. The same applies at

COURSEREVIEW

FACT FILE CONTACT Crook Golf Club Low Jobs Hill, Crook, Co Durham DL15 9AA Tel: 01388 762 429 Email: secretary@crookgolfclub.co.uk Web: www.crookgolfclub.co.uk GREEN FEES All week: £20 Special offers available for groups, societies and fourballs Buggies: £20 a round Membership offers in all categories TOTAL DISTANCE White tees 6,076 yards Yellow tees 5,857 yards Red tees 5,048 yards 12, which is rightly classed as the signature hole (see fact file). There’s not much let up with a long par five with a right-to-left fairway camber and a long, narrow green.

There’s some respite at the next, a par four which is a good birdie chance with sensible play, but par again will do at the uphill, blind par three 15th which is well named Little Waster.

The par four 16th is also uphill and you have to avoid the trees to the right and the whins left. The second shot is a medium to short iron shot to a very small green.

It’s another uphill tee shot at the par five 17th and staying away from trees is the key, not easy as the hole slopes away to the left.

The green can be found in two, but anything short can bounce severely left where there’s a ditch and more whins.

The last has a blind tee shot and anything left will finish in the rough while too far right risks the trees, but get it right and the second is fairly straightforward to severe sloping green with out of bounds behind.

Crook started life as a nine-hole course in 1919 and later extended to 18 holes with the input of members and greenstaff.

Building an excellent clubhouse with a large function room, bar and veranda restaurant overlooking the 18th green was also a major step forward for the club.

The clubhouse remains a major source of income for the club with regular bookings for weddings, birthday parties and family celebrations.

That, plus a deal which saw a wind turbine built on land owned by the club has given a solid financial base and enabled the club to embark on course improvements including the development of the practice ground

FEATURES Practice ground Putting and chipping green Pro shop with Mizuno custom fitting Buggy and electric trolley hire Members and visitors changing rooms Lounge bar and veranda restaurant Function room Bar and snooker room CADDY’S TIP Solid putting and good club selection is the key at Crook SIGNATURE HOLE At just under 400 yards, the 12th is stroke index one with a hogsback fairway, a water hazard and trees, plus a raised green...in short one very good par four.

The fairway hogsback means it slopes both left and right, a real danger on a tight tree-lined hole and a good drive is needed to get at the raised green, which slopes from back to front

OUR VERDICT A true gem and a course which is worth cherishing

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EAGLESCLIFFE GOLF CLUB Founded 1914

Nestled beside the River Tees with the Cleveland Hills as a backdrop, the course has been described by Golf Monthly magazine as a ‘hidden gem’ of English golf.

This 6289 yard James Braid course is both picturesque and demanding due to the nature of the rolling terrain and sloping greens which provides a challenge for both novice and experienced golfers alike.

Golf Societies, Corporate Golf Days and Captain’s Away Days..............We will tailor packages to your requirements.

WEEKDAY SPRING DEAL

Until 30th June - £25 per round (£20 on a Monday) (Off Peak Times) Must be booked through Club Website For all enquiries or to arrange a visit, please contact Martin Ball on 01642 780238 or email secretary@eaglescliffegolfclub.co.uk

MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE FROM £350

OPENS

PLACES ARE FILLING FAST ENTRIES CAN BE BOOKED ONLINE WWW.EAGLESCLIFFEGOLFCLUB.CO.UK

“Home of European Senior Tour Player and Teaching Professional Graeme Bell”

Wilton Golf Club 18-hole Parkland Course

Situated close to the A19 it is ideally located for visitors from the north and south

NEW SEASON OFFERS 4 Ball £60.00 18 Holes of Golf 8 or more people Bacon Sandwich & Coffee followed by 1 Course Meal £26.00pp Afternoon Teas served Monday - Friday Ring for details Sunday Lunch 12 noon - 4 pm Bookings advisable Telephone the Secretary, Claire Harvey 01642 465265 or email secretary@wiltongolfclub.co.uk Wilton Castle Redcar TS10 4QY • www.wiltongolfclub.co.uk

18 NORTHERN GOLFER

Driffield Golf Club

Passport to great golf Yorkshire clubs and Harrogate courses offer new deals to visitors

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any areas now offer great incentives to visit and the East Yorkshire Golf Passport is an excellent way to play four premium courses.

Hainsworth Park, Hornsea, Beverley and Driffield represent four of the finest golf challenges and you can play them all for a total of £74.

Alternative deals offer two courses for £45 and three courses for £59, and there is a single point of contact, Kenton Wright, tel 01377 253 583.

Driffield, situated in the Sunderlandwick Estate, has many beautiful trees, shrubs and wildlife and the 11th hole, bounded on three sides by water hazards, is one of the finest in East Yorkshire.

Beverley and East Riding Golf Club is one of Yorkshire’s most natural golf courses. Founded in 1889, it’s one of the oldest in Yorkshire and boasts an enviable mix of golfing landscape parkland, heathland and links.

Hainsworth Park is set in mature parkland and is easy walking. A test for any level of golfer - accuracy off the tee is key to avoid the trees at this relatively young club,

which was formed in 1983.

Hornsea was established in 1898 and moved to its present site in 1908. Designed by Sandy Herd and subsequently modified in its early years by Dr Alistair Mackenzie and James Braid, the course is a traditional links with possibly the finest six finishing holes in the county.

Meanwhile, five Harrogate clubs have teamed up to offer three-day and five-day Golf Passes.

Harrogate, Knaresborough, Pannal, Ripon City and Rudding Park offer a wealth of choice.

Director of Visit Harrogate, Michael Newby, said “Leading golf course designers Mackenzie and Hawtree have left their mark on these courses.

“The district boasts some truly magnificent courses with superb facilities. Our Golf Pass is excellent value and we are confident that it will help put us on the map as a great golfing destination.”

The Harrogate District Golf Pass three-day, three-round pass is £75.

The five-day, five-round pass is £110.

For more information and to book, tel 01423 537 388 or visit www.visitharrogate.co.uk

IT’S THE PERFECT TIME TO JOIN US THERE’S NEvER bEEN a bETTER TIME TO bECOME a MEMbER aT ClOSE HOUSE. JOIN NOw TO TakE advaNTagE OF THE wORld-ClaSS FaCIlITIES aNd THE REgION’S ONlY TOP 100 gOlF COURSE.

we have a superb calendar of exclusive member’s events planned for the coming year. Take advantage of these, plus all the other unique member benefits, by joining us now.

IndIvIdual membershIp Play the fantastic lee westwood Colt and Filly golf courses, use the Pga golf academy and driving range, and benefit from all of the perks associated with membership of a first-class golf club.

Country membershIp all of the benefits of the Individual membership, plus an accommodation package, available to those living further than 75 miles away and holding membership at another golf club.

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Whinham takes over

Neil Whinham Ryton Golf Club has appointed Neil Whinham as its new club manager.

The 43-year-old PGA professional takes over from Michael Rutter, who has moved on to the manager’s job at City of Newcastle after four years in the role at the Durham club.

Whinham is also the club professional at another Durham club, Whitburn, where he has been for 10 years and hopes to combine both roles.

“I’m really looking forward to the job at Ryton,” said Whinham. “It’s a big chance to get my teeth into doing something different and I’m hoping to learn a lot and build on what Michael has done at Ryton.”

Whinham, a respected Class AA PGA profesional and experienced coach, also runs a very successful online golf business with www.aslangolf.co.uk, and he is also a Nike Golf Ambassador.

New boss for Slaley Slaley Hall has a new manager in Christopher Wayne-Wills, who is looking forward to writing a new chapter in the history of the awardwinning Northumberland resort.

Wayne-Wills brings 21 years of experience in the hospitality industry to his new role at Slaley, which was named best golf resort in the north of England at the 2016 Today’s Golfer Travel Awards, and is part of QHotels - the UK’s largest golf resort operator.

Wayne-Wills said: I’ll be focusing on promoting Slaley Hall as a destination for golf breaks, to really make the most of its award-winning offer for golfers.”

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Whitburn’s iconic 12th hole. Inset, David Lynch

Lynch pin to success Club creates a new position to drive future success

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hitburn has appointed David Lynch as director of golf - a new post created by the Lizard Lane club.

The 36-year-old Sunderland businessman’s remit, following a challenging 2015 for the Durham club, is to work on membership recruitment and retention, sales and marketing strategy and club operational improvement.

Lynch, a Whitburn member, put himself forward for the role and gave a presentation at the club’s February committee meeting which was well received and he was immediately elected to the new role.

He is already meeting regularly with the club’s professional, clubhouse manager and head greenkeeper and has invited new and existing members to meet with him in the first of a series of regular meetings to discuss plans for the coming year and to answer questions.

“I’m absolutely privileged to be given this opportunity and I’ve really enjoyed my first few weeks,” said Lynch.

“I want every member to know that I’m absolutely committed to creating something special at Whitburn. My focus is on improving membership experience and a creating solid revenue stream to help the club prosper.”

It’s no secret that Whitburn, like many other

clubs, has faced financial challenges, but the club has been able to build a new shower and toilet block, install a biomass heating system, and start a programme of drainage work on the greens.

Plans are also being discussed for a wind turbine to supply electricity to the clubhouse and the possibility building a new spike bar.

The practice ground has also been improved with three new holes and a new bunker is planned along with two bunkers planned for the smaller second practice area, and 400 new trees have been planted over the winter.

The club also has a new chairman in Bill Wright, and a new greens committee chairman in Jim Simpson.

“I cannot promise that things will change overnight,” added Lynch.

“It is going to take time to turn the club around and put processes in place but what the committee and I can promise is that we won’t lack commitment.”

Lynch has already had meetings with England Golf and met with the head teacher of a local school to forge links and develop a junior membership action plan and has set a target of attracting 25 new members by the end of the year.

He is also talking to businesses about becoming corporate partners, and exploring grants towards improving facilities.

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Rutter’s in charge

Manager appointed at the City of Newcastle

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ichael Rutter is the new man in charge at the City of Newcastle Golf Club.

Rutter, who was in a similar role at Ryton in County Durham for four years, says he is joining City as they enter an exciting phase with a major overhaul of the clubhouse in the offing after completing the improvements made to the course in the process of the Ouseburn Flood Alleviation scheme.

“I’m really looking forward to being involved in the plans City has for the clubhouse and the course, which we hope will take us forward to the next level,” he said.

“I enjoyed my four years at Ryton, during which we managed to turn

the club around, but when a job like this comes along it’s too good an opportunity to miss.”

Rutter takes over from Anthony Matthew, who was with City in a number of roles for almost 34 years, beginning as club professional in 1982 and then combining both secretary and professional in 1986 before becoming club manager in 1997.

Chairman Jim Screen is delighted to welcome Rutter as City plan a major reorganisation and refurbishment of the clubhouse which includes relocation of the pro shop and work which will enable the club to restructure its bar, lounge and dining area.

There have also been changes

Michael Rutter (left) and Jim Screen to the course following flood alleviation work on the Ouseburn.

The disruption of the Northumbrian Water/Environment Agency work is now completed on the course and members and visitors alike are relishing the improvements coupled with new challenges provided with the changes to the 13th and 14th holes.

“Michael is very proactive and he’ll fit in well with the team here,” said Jim. “Our staff here are really

We’re Open

quality and very friendly, and we have a hard-working proactive committee, an excellent social scene and almost full membership.

“We do have vacancies for lady members and Steve McKenna, our pro, will be running some taster sessions to try and encourage new members.

“We feel the clubhouse changes are necessary to improve the experience for both members and visitors.”

T: 0191 2702362 www.golfgear4less.co.uk E: info@zflgolf.co.uk

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Hoping for a great day Family fun marks 75th anniversary

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esterhope Golf Club is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2016 and few will begrudge the popular Newcastle club a successful year.

A highlight of the celebrations will be on June 4 with golf and plenty of family entertainment planned.

From noon-4pm there is a gyroscope, bunji run, bouncy castle, sumo wrestling - which must be a first for a golf club - face painting and more.

Club pro Michael Nesbit will also be running a putting competition throughout the afternoon and there will be a singles competition on the day with prizes in all categories.

In the evening there will also be live entertainment.

Club president Alan Burlinson’s charity golf day takes place on July 2 with captain Derek Morgan’s day a week later.

This year’s captains also include lady captain Irene Noble, seniors’ captain Gordon Chapman and junior captain William Wilkinson.

The club hosts the Northumberland County Members Spring Meeting on June 1 as well as staging its popular 36-hole scratch open for the George Howorth Trophy on August Bank Holiday Monday.

Regarded as one of the county’s best-kept courses, the club has invested heavily in new course

Westerhope Golf Club machinery to continue its development - a far cry from the course’s early days as a municipal.

Sandy Herd, the 1902 Open Championship winner, designed the course and to this day the layout remains true to his original design.

Jack Makepeace was appointed head greenkeeper and professional

at the time and he supervised the building of the fairways, tees, greens and bunkers on the course.

Because of war time restrictions only nine holes could be completed and in 1946 work began on an additional six holes. The remaining three holes were opened in 1951.

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22 NORTHERN GOLFER RGGC A4 FootGolf Poster-v4.indd 2

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Membership for the 2016 season NOW AVAILABLE Summer green fees 18 holes £18 9 hole special £10 Societies welcome

Telephone the Manager John Robinson 0191 2684274

Telephone 0191 2689131 for course availability, information and events Email: backworthminers@virgin.net • www.backworthminers.co.uk/golf The Hall, Backworth, NE27 0AH

3 MONTH TRIAL MEMBERSHIP Last year’s winning Durham team

Junior tour on course North’s mini tour gets stronger, plus details of wee wonders for Rockliffe

T

he North’s mini tour for junior golfers is going from strength to strength with more events and new sponsors for 2016.

The competition is now in its eighth year and features qualifying events in Durham, Cumbria and Northumberland before the leading players from each area take part in the end of season regional finale.

Last year Durham emerged triumphant at Carus Green in Cumbria. This year’s competition is being backed by lead sponsor Macdonald Hotels and Resorts, with further support from junior golf clothing company Chinny Dipper.

The 2016 schedule includes an additional qualifying round and entries are now open. Qualifying events are played out over nine holes, which gives the next generation of players competitive experience over a series of different courses.

The competitions are open to boys between the ages of eight and 12 with girls also able to play up to the age of 13.

Each round is split into different age and ability categories, with novice players using forward tees and adapted rules.

Each of the five rounds costs £6 each event – although you can enter all five for just £25.

This year’s sponsors are providing prizes for the overall winners.

This year’s final takes place a Macdonald Linden Hall GC in Northumberland on Sunday, September 4.

For more information visit the Junior Tour page at www.northumberlandcgp.co.uk Meanwhile, Rockliffe Hall has launched a Wee Wonders academy for potential golfing stars of the future.

Recently named Best Golf Resort in Europe, Rockliffe held a selection day to choose young players to join the junior academy programme.

Those selected are offered membership of the golf club at a special annual rate of £120 with no joining fee and each also receives weekly coaching sessions in the academy, ‘classroom’ sessions in the clubhouse and time on the golf course.

Rockliffe Hall’s golf and estate director Davy Cuthbertson, said: “This new venture is a fantastic opportunity for aspiring golf professionals to learn everything they need to know to get the best possible start to their golfing career.”

Only £150 (includes 2 half hour coaching sessions) Telephone the Secretary on 0191 5811268 or email seahamgolfclub@btconnect.com

VISITING PARTIES WELCOME

Packages tailored to suit your needs Telephone Andrew 0191 5130837 or email seahamgolfclub@btconnect.com

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Shrewsbury Street, Seaham, Co. Durham SR7 7RD

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Hetton LeGolf Hill Club ELEMORE SUPERB 18 HOLE PARKLAND PAY & PLAY

MEMBERSHIPS Adults £430 - Seniors £325 Pay & Play - £15 per round Seniors £12 per round (inc weekends) Attractive Group Rates for Parties

Telephone 0191 5173061 or email hettoncgc@gmail.com Hetton le Hill Golf Club Elemore Vale, Easington Lane, DH5 0QT NORTHERN GOLFER 23

TEEINGOFF

Blazing a trail Yorkshire’s Alex Keighley to be the first female PGA regional captain

A

lex Keighley will make history next year when she is appointed the first female captain of a PGA region.

The Huddersfield Golf Club professional, who was nominated at the PGA in Yorkshire annual meeting, said: “I was asked a couple of days before and I was delighted to accept. I enjoy being a club pro and I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

Alex had an impressive amateur career ahead of joining the paid ranks in 2003, representing Great Britain and Ireland and playing in the Ladies British Open, which she considers her finest achievements.

She is also a director of TGI Golfer Partnership and at 34 is understood to be the youngest professional in

PGA in England and Wales (North) to take on the captaincy, succeeding Hawarden’s Alex Rowland next March.

“It’s a bit different so I’ll see how I handle it,” she said.

Alex jumped at the chance of taking over as head pro at Huddersfield from Paul Carman in 2012, having worked as his assistant for nine years.

Having started out at Lightcliffe Golf Club, her playing successes also include winning the English U21 Strokeplay and English MidAmateur championships prior to embarking on a six-year spell on the professional circuit.

“I didn’t make much money but I had a great time,” she said.

“It’s a tough industry but I gained

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24 NORTHERN GOLFER

Alex Keighley, Alex Rowland (inset) a lot from it as well as during my amateur days so I felt I had sufficient experience to teach.

“I don’t miss playing – it’s a bit of a ‘been there, done that situation’ but being a PGA professional intrigues me and I absolutely love it!” she added.

Meanwhile, this year’s captain

Alex Rowland is relishing his role.

“It’s a great honour and I’m thrilled to bits,” enthused the Hawarden professional who also serves as club manager, secretary and oversees the greenstaff.

“I’ve never looked back since I came here in 1997,” said Rowland, 46, who joined the PGA 28 years ago.

TEEINGOFF

Moortown attracts the best Big field expected for pro am event

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big field of the region’s top professionals is expected at Moortown Golf Club when it hosts a pro am on August 22 following the success of the historic Leeds Cup last summer.

Moortown hosted the first Ryder Cup on British soil in 1929 and is arguably one of Britain’s finest inland courses. Designed by legendary architect Dr Alister MacKenzie, it’s expected to attract a big field of top professionals not only from

Yorkshire but from across the Northern region for the tournament.

PGA North secretary Graham Maly said: “We wanted to continue our affiliation with Moortown after its support of the Leeds Cup and organising a pro am at one of the best venues in the country seemed a fantastic opportunity.”

Moortown secretary Peter Rishworth added: “The Leeds Cup drew a lot of interest and we are hoping the pro am will be well supported.

Moortown Golf Club “We expect the course to have fully recovered from the harsh winter by then. A lot of work has been going on behind the scenes and we are confident the greens and fairways will be up to their usual high standard.”

Meanwhile, PGA North is on course for an action-packed season with several new events on the schedule.

Pro ams feature high on the list with seven clubs joining the fold. As well as Moortown, Nefyn, Abergele, High Legh Park, Hallamshire, Lancaster and Sand Moor join the schedule this term.

In addition, the hugely popular Lakeland Classic, revived last year after a long absence, will resume for its traditional two days at Windermere.

Contact PGA North for further details, tel 01204 496 137 or email pgainenglandandwalesnorth@pga.org.uk or speak to tournament controller Andrew Chadwick, tel 07799 111 822

Richmond (Yorks) Golf Club Set in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales

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Both offers include an option on £500 FULL MEMBERSHIP for 2017 -2018 Telephone the Secretary on 01748 823231 or email secretary@richmondyorksgolfclub.co.uk www.richmondyorksgolfclub.co.uk Bend Hagg, Richmond DL10 5EX

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NORTHERN GOLFER 25

PRO-FILE No1 Choice for Captain’s Trips and Away Days 2014 GolfMark Club Of The Year Winners

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Cookridge Hall Golf Club, Cookridge Lane, Leeds, LS16 7NL

SIMON CALVERT AGE: 27 TURNED PRO: 23 HOME CLUB: Darlington Golf Club CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Qualified for the 2016 EuroPro Tour Six professional wins to date Shot a course record 62 to win pro am event at Ramside Hall Progressed to Final Qualifying for The Open Championship in 2014 WHAT ARE YOU DOING THIS SEASON? “I qualified for the EuroPro Tour this season through the Q School at Frilford Heath so that is going to be a huge part of my season on the course. Close House and Longhirst will be my ‘home’ games, so I’d like to play well in those.

“I’ll also be playing a lot of NE/NW PGA pro ams and will look to qualify for the Open Championship later this summer. Apart from that, I’ll be working at Darlington, particularly with the juniors on a Saturday morning, and keeping my game sharp on our new driving range.”

MIDDLESBROUGH GOLF CLUB BRASS CASTLE LANE Telephone 01642 311766 www.middlesbroughgolfclub.co.uk Visiting Party Packages - From £35 per person Middlesbrough Golf Club Pro Am - Friday 27th May £195 per team Gents Open - Sunday 29th May £30 per pair To book or for further information contact Gordon Cattrell Club Professional on 01642 311766 or email gcattrell@tgigolf.com North of England Open Amateur Youth Championship 2nd-4th Aug 2016 Follow us on Twitter @ MGC1908 26 NORTHERN GOLFER

HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE GAME? “I started playing at Richmond Golf Club as a seven-yearold with my mum and dad. We all started at the same time and I got totally hooked as a young kid.

“I went on to play club golf and represent Teesside at boys’ and men’s level as well as representing Durham before I turned pro. The highlight of my amateur career was winning two Yorkshire Order of Merit events in 2010 - the Auchterlonie Spoon at Selby Golf Club and the Hornsea Gutty.”

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD? “I’m really looking forward to a full schedule of EuroPro Tour events in 2016. The dream is to be a full-time player and make it to the European Tour; there’s a clear route through the EuroPro and Challenge tours to make it to the top tier. Apart from that, I just want to be as good a player as I possibly can be.”

INTERESTING FACT: Holds the course record (62) at Ramside Hall Holds the course record (63) at Richmond Golf Club

PHILRIDDEN

Ridden high Phil Ridden, England’s lowest-handicapped golfer, tells Dean Bailey about golf, learning curves, and the future

E

very golfer has stood on the second tee after a messy bogey, or worse, at the opening hole and feared the worst for the following 17 holes.

Imagine then, if you will, that bogey sending you back to six over-par for your round.

“It’s tough,” admits Phil Ridden, whose handicap of +5.2 is the lowest currently active in England. “I don’t think about being over par on the first tee, but I certainly do after a dropped shot.”

We meet in the clubhouse at City of Newcastle, which Phil has called home for 15 years, and the club which supported him when he made the decision to join the professional ranks in 2012.

“When I turned pro, I raised some sponsorship money thanks to my friends here, and was always going to return when I made the decision to regain my amateur status,” says Ridden, who qualified for the PGA EuroPro Tour - the European Tour’s satellite in the UK - in 2012 and would go on to play 15 professional events in his first season.

“Without being a great year for results, despite some good rounds and being in good positions, I was happy to get through a really steep learning curve.”

Following a second, tougher year as a pro, Ridden returned to his home club in 2014 and set out to regain his place as one of the county’s elite players. He played his final professional event in 2013 before going through the lengthy process of regaining his amateur status in 2014.

“I had six weeks of the 2014 season when I got my handicap back and managed to equal the course record and get my handicap down from +2 to +3.4, which gave me a great boost going into 2015.”

On returning to the amateur ranks, Ridden’s form and wealth of experience have led him to the lowest active handicap in England and winning Player of the Year honours in the Newcastle & District League – winning all but his last match in a near-perfect season. He also won multiple times at the City and returned to represent Northumberland at county level.

“It’s been great to bounce back from a disappointing period and I’m over the moon with my last year,” he says.

28 NORTHERN GOLFER

“I had a slow start to the season and was shooting some poor scores before I had a putting lesson in May with John McKenna. That worked really well, I was high in confidence and put some great scores in.”

Ridden also credits a different mindset to his success in 2015. “Although I haven’t applied it 100% of the time, I learned to be more patient from my time as a pro.

“Playing for my living also put golf into a better perspective. I’m still a passionate golfer, but I have a much better perspective.”

With a strong amateur career under his belt and a successful 2011 season - which included a win at the Northumberland Strokeplay Championship - and a new course record at Goswick Golf Club, as well as a win at The Lagonda Trophy beating top players including Tyrrell Hatton, Ridden made the decision to turn pro riding a wave of success.

“I’d had a great year on the course, winning a national event and playing some of the best golf of my life. I’d won £5,000 in prize money - a huge amount for an amateur golfer playing within the £500 prize money limit.

“When I wasn’t selected to represent England that year, having competed with the guys on the team, I made the decision to turn pro the following season. It was the perfect time to give it a go.”

Ridden took a career break from HMRC to join the professional ranks, and although things didn’t work out, he stands by the decision.

“Looking back, having gone through what I did, I don’t think I would do it again. That said, I would have always regretted not giving it a go when I had the chance.”

Ridden was welcomed to the paid ranks with a tough start – holing a six-footer for par and the final place in EuroPro Tour Final Qualifying at Frilford Heath – a moment he describes as “a nice introduction to playing for your living.

“The courses weren’t tougher than I’d experienced at top amateur events, but the travelling was tough. The EuroPro Tour was a lot weaker in the north back then and I spent a long time on the road.”

PHILRIDDEN

NORTHERN GOLFER 29

PHILRIDDEN He also admits to not being a diligent practicer, “I was left with a lot of time on my hands and not a lot to do. I’d play socially on my weeks off rather than hitting balls on the range for a couple of hours. That was practising to me.”

But there were some upsides to being a pro, “It was good not having to get up to go to work in the morning,” he adds.

In 2013 the number of events Ridden had access to diminished, leading to a drop in form. “It got a lot harder to play my best golf - I’d sometimes have a month without a competitive round.

“I seemed to find myself missing the cut by one, or missing out on the bigger cheques by one. By the end of the year it started to get to me. The money was starting to run out and I had to make a decision on my future. It was made easier by having a really tough year. The biggest problem was the lack of competitive golf.

I went from 15 events in my first year to five or six, and by the end of the year my money was drying up.

“As an amateur, the competitive rounds are just about unlimited. I played more than 50 competitive rounds in 2015, which makes a huge difference.

It was a vicious cycle and by the end I

Image credit: Richard Hannam

knew it wasn’t worth £700-plus per week.

I made the decision to come back, regain my amateur status, and represent the club and county which I’d been part of most of my life.”

With so much golf behind him, the 30-year-old seems happy with his experience and how his golf is shaping up for the future.

“I’ve got a lot of passion for county golf. I’ve really enjoyed being back in the county team and there’s a lot to look forward to in the next few seasons.

“I’m very happy to be back playing with my friends too. This year I’ll be concentrating on playing locally, representing the club and the county, as well as playing on top amateur events in the North East. My days of travelling around the country to play golf are behind me for now.

“The big goal this year is the Northumberland County Championship at the City. I’d like to think I’ll go into that as the favourite, but there will be a lot of players capable of winning.

Losing to Jack Hermeston last year was tough and I’d like to go one better and win it this year.

“But, if really I’m honest, as long as I’m playing good golf, I’m happy.”

Fulford (York) Golf Club SEE EUROPE’S BEST YOUNG PROS IN THE NORTH EAST THIS SUMMER

Visitor & Societies welcome Ring NOW for our Summer green fees and Golf Packages Visit our online booking service www.fulfordgolfclub.co.uk Or ring Tom on 01904 413579 ext 4 30 NORTHERN GOLFER

Longhirst Hall, June 29-July 1 Close House, July 27-29 Moor Allerton, Sep 21-23 WWW.EUROPROTOUR.COM

TOURLIFE

Chris Paisley

MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE OPEN COMPETITIONS 2016 Saturday 6th August. Gents Open. £16 per pair.

Tuesday 9th August. Seniors Open. £16 per pair.

Monday 5th September. Ladies Open. £12 per pair.

VISITING PARTIES WELCOME - Packages tailored to suit your needs!

3 MONTH TRIAL MEMBERSHIPS ONLY £150!

For further details or to book a tee time telephone the Secretary on 0191 2867636 or 0191 2860594 | Email: wgc@btconnect.com

WESTERHOPE GOLF CLUB Whorlton Grange, Westerhope, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE5 1PP www.westerhopegolfclub.com

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TOUR LIFE

RESILIENCE IS KEY WITH EUROPEAN TOUR PLAYER CHRIS PAISLEY As I write, I am sitting in my hotel room in Morocco after another disappointing performance. It’s my fourth week on the road, and my third missed cut. The one cut I made in this stretch was a T-56th at the Volvo China Open last week, hardly the kind of performance I am looking for.

The first event of the four, the Spanish Open at Valderrama, was followed by two events in China before the Trophée Hassan II in Morocco. I have travelled for approximately 56 hours in the past month.

I’ve battled a pulled muscle in my neck, and what I can only describe as diabolical food in China.

I’ve also spent a lot more money than I have made.

Saying all of that, I’m not complaining about my job!

I love playing golf for a living, and I am fully aware how fortunate I am to be out here on the European Tour. I’m simply trying to give you an insight into how the job is far from private jets and trophies every week - at least for most guys out here!

One lesson you are taught over and over as a touring professional is the importance of mental toughness and resilience. Out here they are probably the most important factors to success. We play against 155 seriously talented golfers every week; inevitably you are going to lose a lot more than you win. If your form dips slightly, you are going to get your butt kicked!

I am going through a run of poor form at the moment and I’m getting my butt kicked most weeks. It is tough to not let it get you down but this is where the resilience comes in, and having a good support network is key.

I have learned that times like these are simply part of professional golf. The more resilient you are, the harder you work; and the better advice you get, the quicker your form will turn around. I am very lucky to have a great wife, family, and coaches behind me. All I can do is keep my chin up, work out what has been going wrong, and then work my rear end off to sort it out.

That is exactly what I am going to do in the knowledge that, sooner or later, the good scores will return!

TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE THE DIFFERENCE Telephone 01670 733330 Fax 01670 700067 Email: sales@greennlay.co.uk www.greenlayco.uk

Baker Road, Nelson Park West, Cramlington, Northumberland, NE23 1WL

Could GOLF be your missing link?

To find out more about our new GolfFitsAll tailored to suit your Work-Life balance: Contact Houghton-le-Spring Golf Club on 0191 584 1198

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Play when you can and receive special green fee rates: 9-hole Green Fee Winter - £6.00 9-hole Green Fee Summer - £8.00 18-hole Green Fee Winter – £9.00 18-hole Green Fee Summer - £11.00 (Based on 50% of rack rate)

BENEFITS INCLUDE: Eligible to play in Mid-week competitions & Opens Managed CONGU handicap Use of the clubs new 6-hole Pitch & Putt facility Members Bar Card for 10% discount on drinks (not pre-loaded) Members buggy hire rates Member guest rates for friends

NORTHERN GOLFER 31

GOLFERNEWS

James is patron

Mark James Mark James will again be a patron for the Disabled Golf Association, which has unveiled an exciting event line-up for 2016 at top venues around the country.

James is a popular figure in the North East and Yorkshire having links with Ilkley, Burgham Park, Northumbria University and Sunderland Golf Centre and he is a frequent visitor to the region.

“While not disabled myself, I did suffer a life threatening illness,” said James. “I was lucky enough to recover from testicular cancer in 2001 but can understand how difficult it can be living with illness and although for only a short time, a certain amount of disability.

“DGA are doing great work in making golf possible for people overcoming their disabilities.”

Scottish golf offer Fancy playing the best courses in South West Scotland for not a lot of money?

Head for the breathtaking scenery of Dumfriesshire and play golf for £60 at both Powfoot and Dumfries & County.

Powfoot was redesigned by the legendary James Braid in 1923 and is a superb test with many challenging holes set among whins and rough, and has earned the tag of “one of golf’s best kept secrets.”

Dumfries & County is a truly enjoyable golfing experience.

Renowned for the consistently fast greens, this Fernie/Braid designed parkland course is a fair challenger.

Both courses offer friendly, relaxed hospitality. See page 4 for full details.

32 NORTHERN GOLFER

Royal Troon, below Padraig Harrington (© The R&A, David W. Leindecker / Shutterstock. com)

Quick nine

R&A launches nine-hole event ahead of this year’s Open Championship

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s calls to speed up the game of golf continue to grow, the R&A has launched a new nine-hole tournament, to be played at Royal Troon in the week before the 145th Open Championship at the classic Ayrshire links.

The amateur event will be played on Saturday July 9, with a field of 30 players who progress through 13 Regional Qualifying venues for The Open. The handicap event will be open to men, women, boys and girls who are members of the clubs taking part.

In 2017, the event will be expanded to cover golf clubs in Great Britain and Ireland with players given the opportunity to qualify at nine-hole events held by national associations in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

Padraig Harrington, two-time Open champion and R&A Working for Golf ambassador, said: “People who want to play golf are increasingly struggling to find the time to play, so positioning nine-hole golf as a legitimate alternative makes a lot of sense.

“For regular amateur

golfers to be able to play The Open venue in championship condition is a fantastic initiative and I’m sure this new competitive format will encourage more people to get out on the golf course and play nine holes.”

The R&A’s extensive survey on pace of play and the subsequent Time for Golf conference in St Andrews in November 2015 highlighted the challenges many people face in finding time to play 18 holes - 60% of the golfers expressing the view that they would enjoy golf more if it took less time.

The survey also revealed that, among 2544 year-olds who are unhappy with the pace of play, 21% would like to see the playing time reduced by as much as one-anda-half hours, while 19% said they would welcome the opportunity to play nine holes more often as an alternative format.

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Autumn mixed competition weeks Visit our website for full details of competition weeks and other golfing holiday special offers.

GREENWATCH

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Email: brian@golfnorthumbria.com www.golfnorthumberia.com Northumbria Golf Breaks, The Office, Ravenside Farm, Hedley, Stocksfield NE43 7SX

Hirsel Golf Club One of the UK’s Hidden Gems, featured in Golf Monthly’s Top 100 Hidden Gems of UK & Ireland list Come and play the No1 golf course in the Scottish Borders

Visitors & Societies Always Welcome Party Packages We can tailor your golf outing to suit your needs Is there a better place to take your annual outing to?’

Contact the Secretary on 01890 882678 or email secretary@hirselgc.co.uk Open Competitions 2016 For details or to enter please visit our website www.hirselgc.co.uk

So far this Spring, the only word I can up with to describe the weather is...dismal. We’ve seen snow, hail and rain showers in April, along with cold gales driving the temperature down. It’s not been a great start to the season for many in the North East.

This combined with coming through the wet winter has made growing conditions tough going into preparations for the coming season.

With the grass still in a dormant state due to the low temperatures, and light for such a longer period of spring than normal, it is vital to regulate fertiliser applications until the temperatures have warmed up and are more consistent - over fertilisation can have as equally

detrimental effect as under fertilising. A balanced fertiliser programme is key to maintaining a stress-free plant, along with a deep understanding of how different fertilisers work and how nutrients are used by the plant to maximise the gains within the leaf and soil.

By controlling the plant growth and keeping it consistent, the plant can grow healthily. It is also important to understand that excessive amounts of one or more types of nutrient within the soil can cause a lock up of other vital nutrients needed by the plant. With this in mind, it is important to know what is happening within the soil and soil testing will help with decisions when applying products.

NEXT MONTH Thatch removal

Hirsel Golf Club, Coldstream, Kelso Road, Berwickshire, TD12 4NJ 34 NORTHERN GOLFER

GOLFERNEWS

Golf in the Scottish Borders Traditional country inn ideally situated for playing MINTO, HAWICK, THE HIRSEL AND ROXBURGH plus many more. 12 en-suite bedrooms with tv, wi-fi, tea/coffee making facililties, Sky tv. Restaurant and bar serving cask ales (good pub guide)

STAY & PLAY - £85 per night on two people sharing

The Auld Cross Keys Inn

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The Green, Denholm, Scottish Borders, TD9 8NU

A gem of a parkland course Visitors always receive a warm welcome at Minto Golf Club and many visitors return year after year. To see why they do, view the flyover of the course on our website or, better still, come and play the course yourself and then enjoy Minto’s hospitality in the comfortable clubhouse.

Olivia Winning with the Helen Holm Trophy (© Kenny Smith/Scottish Golf)

Olivia back to Winning Title ends 21-year-old’s barren spell

Y

orkshire’s Olivia Winning won the Helen Holm Scottish Women’s Strokeplay Championship for a second time – after a nailbiting wait.

The 21-year-old England girls’ cap from Rotherham Golf Club was four shots off the lead going into the final round at Royal Troon and surprised to find she was in with a chance of the title after closing with a 54-hole total of one over-par.

All eyes had been on another Olivia, the defending champion Olivia Mehaffey from Ireland, who had topped the leaderboard after days one and two, but bogeys at 13, 14 and 15 saw her slip back into a share of the lead with Winning.

A further bogey at the 17th put Mehaffey a shot behind, leaving Winning biting her nails in the clubhouse and “freaking out” at the thought she might win.

But, win she did, with her final round of 72 enough to see her through when Mehaffey was unable to birdie the final hole.

Winning previously captured the title in 2013 and this was her first win since then.

“I am so excited, it’s special,” she said after being presented with the

Helen Holm Trophy and silver gilt medal for a second time. “It’s a difficult course but I’ve played it enough times now to have found my way round. I played it really well back in 2013 when I won and this year I just kept it simple.

“I wasn’t as mad with the birdies as I was last time, I just kept it steady and it worked out in the end,” said Winning.

“I’ve been working on my swing constantly in the last two years. When I came up in 2013, I was hitting it well and I knew I was hitting it well, I could go out there with confidence. This year it was a more conservative approach as my swing is not in a great place.

“It’s getting better but I’m still not happy with where it is, so it’s nice to get a bit of confidence back with a win.

“I love Scotland, I love Troon, this is my favourite tournament, my favourite golf course and I couldn’t be happier.

If there is one tournament I’d want to win in a year, it’s this one and to have done it twice now is incredible. I’m super happy.”

Winning recorded rounds of 73 and 72 at Troon Portland before completing the championship with a level par round of 72 on the Old Course at Royal Troon.

A further five English players finished in the top 10.

Minto Golf Club

To book a round or enter Minto open competitions visit www.mintogolf.co.uk For visiting party packages and all general enquiries contact the club on 01450 870 220 ext 2 or email mintogolfclub@btconnect.com

Denholm, Hawick TD9 8SA

SPECIAL OFFERS ON MEMBERSHIPS - RING FOR DETAILS

VISITORS SUMMER GREEN FEES 2016 STANDARD 18 holes 2 Ball & Buggy 4 Ball & 2 Buggies

£15.00 £39.00 £78.00

SAVERS 18 holes 2 Ball & Buggy 4 Ball & 2 Buggies

£12.00 £35.00 £70.00

ALL DAY 4 BALL SPECIAL (MONDAY & FRIDAY) £30.00 ALL OFFERS EXCLUDE BANK HOLIDAYS

Tel: 01207 270941 Email: secretary@hobsongolfclub.co.uk Website: www.thehobsongolfclub.co.uk @hobsongolfrange

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NORTHERN GOLFER 35

NORTHUMBERLANDFOCUS

East to West

This month we take a trip around some of our favourite clubs in Northumberland

ALNMOUTH GOLF CLUB Overlooking Foxton Bay in an area of natural outstanding beauty on the Northumberland coastline, Alnmouth Golf Club is one of the county’s finest coastal courses.

The fourth oldest club in England, established in 1869, the current course was laid out by HS Colt and is renowned for the condition of its greens and overall presentation.

One of the Top 100 golf courses in the UK, the club also has first-class practice facilities, a driving range and golf buggies for hire. Only 40 minutes drive from Newcastle, the popular 26-bed dormy house is a must for those travelling to Alnmouth or looking for a short break.

Alnmouth Golf Club, Foxton Hall, Alnmouth, NE66 3BE tel 01665 830 231, www.alnmouthgolfclub.com

Alnwick Picturesque 18 hole course in the heart of Northumberland

visiting parties

C.

at Alnwick Golf Club May 30th 2016 Bank Holiday Monday sponsored by

Town

Great value packages available to suit everyone. Excellent discounts for larger parties. Casual and Individual visiting golfers are very welcome

clubhouse

Stunning views of the Simonside Hills and the Cheviots. Full catering served daily including Sunday Carvery. Available for Wedding Receptions, Birthday Parties, Business Meetings, Clubs, Societies etc. Non-Golfers, Walkers and Bikers always welcome

open competitions 2016

Visit our website for full details www.rothburygolfclub.com

For further details of all our offers telephone the Secretary on 01669 621271 or email: secretary@rothburygolfclub.com www.rothburygolfclub.com Whitton Bank Road, Rothbury, Northumberland, NE65 7RX @rothburygolf

36 NORTHERN GOLFER

F.

Alnwick Town F.C. Golf Day

4 BBB Stableford, CONGU handicap 3/4 allowance, must be 16 or over - £30 pair includes coffee/bacon roll on arrival & goody bag - Tee off from 8.30 am Cash prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd.

For entry form or further details telephone Ian Hogg 07809 474526 or Alnwick Golf Club 01665 602632 FANTASTIC HOLE IN ONE PRIZES ON EACH OF THE PAR 3 HOLES 1 OF WHICH IS A BRAND NEW FORD FIESTA 1.25 ZETEC 3 DR, WORTH £12,795 (SUPPLIED BY MOTORCARE OF ALNWICK)

NORTHUMBERLANDFOCUS BEDLINGTONSHIRE GOLF CLUB The sweeping fairways and large undulating greens of the Frank Penninck-designed Bedlingtonshire Golf Club combine to provide a top quality layout.

At 6,813 yards from the back tees and with a par of 73, Bedlingtonshire can be tough from the back tees, while often breezy conditions can make the course one of the hardest in our region.

Though tough, there are few prettier courses in Northumberland, particularly Bedlingtonshiore’s take on Augusta National’s Amen Corner – the par four 13th, signature par three 14th, and par four 14th.

Bedlingtonshire Golf Club, Acorn Bank, Hartford Road, Bedlington NE22 6AA, tel 01670 822 457 www.bedlingtongolfclub.com BELLINGHAM GOLF CLUB In the heart of the Northumberland National Park, Bellingham Golf Club offers some of the best views in our list, while the golf course is a favourite of many of the region’s top players.

Situated between Hadrian’s Wall and the Scottish border, there are spectacular views extending up the Tyne Valley towards the Border Forest Park and Kielder reservoir.

One of England’s oldest clubs, founded in 1893, this par 70 layout is no pushover with tight, twisting fairways and one of the best short pars fours in the North East – the 12th.

Bellingham Golf Club, Boggle Hole Bellingham, NE48 2DT tel 01434 220 530 www.bellinghamgolfclub.com RIVERDALE HALL COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL For those travelling to Northumberland, Bellingham Golf Club has a great link with the Riverdale Hall Country House Hotel.

The relaxed feel and hearty breakfast is perfect for those returning from a day on the course, or raring to get out there.

Riverdale Hall Country House Hotel Bellingham, NE48 2JT tel 01434 220 254 www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk

BEDLINGTONSHIRE GOLF CLUB

BELLINGHAM GOLF CLUB

NORTHERN GOLFER 37

NORTHUMBERLANDFOCUS

DUNSTANBURGH CASTLE GOLF CLUB One of the finest examples of Northumberland links golf in our focus, Dunstanburgh Castle Golf Club is a must-visit for every golfer whether you’re a short drive away or coming from further afield.

Set in Embleton Bay, in the shadow of the ruined castle, the Dunstanburgh course measures 6,298 yards from the back tees with a par of 70.

With views out over the North Sea, Dunstanburgh is a tricky test, with many hidden secrets which take years to unravel.

The signature par three 13th is a picturesque challenge, played in the shadow of the castle.

At just 115 yards, the quarry short of the green at this stunning short hole should not come into play, but so often does!

Dunstanburgh Golf Club Embleton, Alnwick, NE66 3XQ tel 01665 576 562 www.dunstanburgh.com

HEXHAM GOLF CLUB Heading into the Tyne Valley, we must feature Hexham Golf Club in our rundown.

Another of England’s oldest clubs, Hexham has brought the North East many of its finest players and remains a popular venue for top events.

Six-time Open Championship winner Harry Vardon once described the course as, “…as fine an inland course as you can find,” and we would agree with Mr Vardon.

A test of golf which is enjoyable at all levels – from the big-hitting scratch golfer to those new to the game, this mature, parkland course also offers stunning views of the North and South Tyne, as well as the surrounding countryside, a warm welcome and excellent food.

A regular on our travels, but always worth a visit.

Hexham Golf Club, Spital Park Hexham, NE46 3RZ tel 01434 603 072 www.hexhamgolf.co.uk

LONGHIRST GOLF CLUB

HEXHAM GOLF CLUB

Bellingham Golf Club

Riverdale Hall Hotel COUNTRY HOUSE & RESTAURANT

VISITING PARTIES WELCOME EVERY DAY - GREAT DEALS ON OFFER BUGGIES & CATERING AVAILABLE

Summer/Autumn Play and Stay Special

MAKE BELLINGHAM YOUR SECOND CLUB IN 2016

Overnight stay including dinner in our award winning restaurant and use of the swimming pool Superior south facing room from £84 per person dinner, bed & breakfast and 18 holes at Bellingham Golf Club After your round of golf at Bellingham why not join us for lunch main courses from only £9.90, Sunday lunch from £9.50 Golfing Parties catered for

TWO GREAT OFFERS

EITHER: 6 Day Patrons Membership 1st May - 31st Oct (Mon - Sat, Gents/Sun - Fri, Ladies) £100 includes 2 FREE 4 Ball vouchers (Mon - Sat) OR: 7 Day Second Club Membership To 31st October 2016 £195 includes 2 FREE 4 Ball Vouchers (Mon - Sat) You must be a current full member of another club to qualify for this GREAT deal

May 2016 Online Green Fee £20 pp Weekdays - £22.50 Saturday & Sunday Tel: 01434 220254 • email: reservations@riverdalehallhotel.co.uk www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk • www.bellinghamgolfclub.com

38 NORTHERN GOLFER

Telephone 01434 220530 or email admin@bellinghamgolfclub.com Bellingham Golf Club, Boggle Hole, Bellingham, NE48 2DT

www.bellinghamgolfclub.com

NORTHUMBERLAND

DUNSTANBURGH CASTLE GOLF CLUB

LONGHIRST GOLF CLUB A EuroPro Tour host venue once again in 2016, the championship courses at Longhirst are a welcome break from the tree-lined fairways of many Northumberland courses.

The two modern courses present two great tests of golf in rolling Northumberland countryside.

The Lakes course is a demanding layout, rewarding accuracy from the tee. With water playing a part on 15 holes, finding the fairway on the Lakes is key. The Dawson course, which will host the EuroPro Tour, gives players a little more room from the tee, while demanding a great short game to its smaller, wellprotected greens.

Both courses are always presented superbly, with particularly fast greens at the height of the season. The club is also home to a state-of-the art driving range.

Longhirst Hall Golf Club Morpeth, NE61 3LL tel 01670 791 562 www.longhirstgolf.co.uk

Bedlingtonshire Golf Club

Enjoy our Golfing experience

Memberships available including intermediate categories - ring for prices Free coaching and Junior Development Club for Junior Members (under 16’s) VISITORS & SOCIETIES ALWAYS WELCOME CONTACT LAYLA LEVY, CLUB SECRETARY ON 01670 822457 (9am - 1pm) EMAIL: SECRETARY@BEDLINGTONGOLFCLUB.COM WWW.BEDLINGTONGOLFCLUB.COM

Alnmouth Golf Club, Foxton Hall Northumberland’s Hidden Gem

Dormy House Golf Breaks 2016

English Tourism 3 Star En-Suite Accommodation Dinner, Bed and Breakfast with 2 Rounds of Golf SUMMER PRICES FROM £90 PER PERSON NORTHUMBERLAND GOLF BREAK 2 NIGHTS DBB WITH 3 ROUNDS OF GOLF CHOICE OF 6 COURSES ALL FROM £225 WE DO ALL THE BOOKING YOU RELAX AND ENJOY! GREAT VALUE – BOOK NOW – DATES GOING FAST Visit www.alnmouthgolfclub.com for full details Mixed Greensomes Open Sunday 5th June 2016 - £22 per couple – Book Online All Summer 2016 Opens Booking now available online www.alnmouthgolfclub.com

Acorn Bank, Hartford Road, Bedlington, Northumberland, NE22 6AA

Summer Evening Twilight Golf - £17 after 3pm – Book Online Alnmouth Golf Club, Foxton Hall, Alnmouth, Northumberland, NE66 3BE Tel: 01665 830231 - E: bookings@alnmouthgolfclub.com www.alnmouthgolfclub.com Follow us on Facebook

NORTHERN GOLFER 39

NORTHUMBERLANDFOCUS MATFEN HALL MATFEN HALL Matfen Hall is arguably one of the region’s best venues for a stayand-play trip. The three loops of nine holes mean that societies and visitors can tee off at peak times, including weekends, away from members and other events on the course.

All three of the nine-hole loops at Matfen Hall make fantastic use of the Northumberland landscape in creating a classic parkland layout.

The highlight of a day at Matfen for many is the par three 17th.

Played over the fast flowing River Pont, this deceivingly long par three is played into the prevailing wind and requires a mid-long iron to find the angled green.

Having finished in front of the Keepers’ Lodge at Matfen, we recommend a trip inside the spacious and friendly clubhouse.

Matfen Hall Hotel, Golf & Spa Matfen Village, NE20 0RH tel 01661 886 500 www.matfenhall.com

GOLF SOCIETIES 2016 SOCIETY BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN - GREAT OFFERS AND SPECIAL DEALS FOR EARLY BOOKINGS

MEMBERSHIPS FROM ONLY £18 PER MONTH DIRECT DEBIT

• 2 SUPERB COURSES TO PLAY • • VISITORS & SOCIETIES WELCOME • • PUBLIC DRIVING RANGE • • PGA EUROPRO VENUE JUNE 2016 • MAY 14TH FAMILY FUN DAY 1PM - 5 PM

Longhirst Hall G O L F

C L U B

40 NORTHERN GOLFER

LONGHIRST HALL GOLF COURSE, LONGHIRST, MORPETH, NORTHUMBERLAND, NE61 3LL Telephone 01670 791562 or email: enquiries@longhirstgolf.co.uk visit us online at: www.longhirstgolf.co.uk

NORTHUMBERLANDFOCUS

MORPETH GOLF CLUB MORPETH GOLF CLUB Just outside the old market town, the parkland course at Morpeth Golf Club offers fantastic panoramic views of the Northumberland countryside including the picturesque Cheviot Hills and features a host of challenges from tricky par fives and challenging par threes to a number of short par fours which offer the chance of a birdie or two.

Measuring 6,341 yards off the medal tees and with a par of 71, golfers of all levels will enjoy a day at Morpeth.

Morpeth Golf Club, Loansdean, Morpeth, NE61 2BT tel 01670 515 675, www.morpethgolf.co.uk

Business Membership Opportunity

Limited Offer At Hexham we have a wide range of services available to enable your golf to work alongside your business Your membership entitles you to a fantastic golf package which includes:

• One four ball per day Sunday p.m to Friday

• Free Tee Sponsorship worth £750 promoting your company name to thousands of golfers

• No green fees for your Corporate Golf Day (up to a maximum of 60 players) • 10% discount on food and beverages • Free room hire for conferences and meetings • No need to name beneficiaries, the card provides

NEWBIGGIN GOLF CLUB NEWBIGGIN GOLF CLUB The links and moorland on the Northumberland coast at Newbiggin have stood the test of time and are still a popular venue for the county’s best events. Designed by Willie Park Junior, the rolling fairways, sand dunes and North Sea wind make for a difficult test. Big hitting is an advantage here, particularly on the opening holes, while a sharp short game and putting stroke are key to good coring. At more than 6,800 yards off the back tees, play the course in the height of summer to see it at its best.

Newbiggin Golf Club, Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, NE64 6DW tel 01670 817 344, www.newbiggingolfclub.co.uk

Dunstanburgh Castle Golf Club Scenic 18 hole seaside links course designed by the famous James Braid, adjacent to spectacular Embleton Bay VISITORS & SOCIETIES WELCOME INCLUDING WEEKENDS

Spring/Summer Special

Coffee & bacon roll on arrival, round of golf followed by soup, large filled roll & chips

£29 per person Mon-Fri £33 per person weekends Twilight Rate only £15 after 3pm

for up to four players on presentation

For further information please contact the Club Manager on 01434 603072 ext 1 who would be delighted to talk through the various options with you.

Spital Park, Hexham, NE46 3RZ Tel: 01434 603072 - email: info@hexhamgolf.co.uk www.hexhamgolf.co.uk

Our free draining links course means we hardly ever close due to bad weather!

GOLFAS 2014

Greens Team of the Year Winners!

Embleton, Northumberland, NE66 3XQ Tel: 01665 576562 email: enquiries@dunstanburgh.com www.dunstanburgh.com

NORTHERN GOLFER 41

NORTHUMBERLANDFOCUS

PERCY WOOD COUNTRY PARK AND GOLF CLUB PERCY WOOD COUNTRY PARK AND GOLF CLUB Percy Wood Country Park and Golf Club, formerly Swarland in North Northumberland, has undergone some big changes in the last few years, including big improvements to the golf course.

The views from parts of the Percy Wood course, which sits six miles south of Alnwick in Northumberland, are a constant distraction.

Thousands of trees have added further definition to the fairways, as well as toughening the challenge from the tee while the quality of the greens make for an enjoyable test.

For those making a trip to Northumberland, there are five luxury holiday homes available for hire, all of which are fully-furnished and ideal for selfcatering holidays for up to eight people.

Percy Wood Country Park and Golf Club, Coast View, Swarland Morpeth, NE65 9JG, tel 01670 787 010, www.percywood.co.uk

42 NORTHERN GOLFER

SLALEY HALL

NORTHUMBERLANDFOCUS SLALEY HALL The Hunting and the Priestman courses at Slaley Hall are rightly ranked among the very best in the North East with a string of European, Senior Tour, and PGA events staged here in recent years.

Set in more than 1,000 acres of Northumberland moorland and forest, the championship golf courses are stern tests. The Hunting requires great ability to play anywhere near to your handicap; the front nine is among the toughest stretches in the country - requiring long and straight tee shots, accurate approaches and an excellent putting stroke. The ninth is widely regarded as one of the toughest par fours in the region.

Designed by Dave Thomas, the lush sweeping fairways, rolling moorland, streams and lakes, towering trees and banks of rhododendrons combine to provide an air of peace and tranquillity and a golfing experience you’ll never forget.

Slaley Hall, Slaley, Hexham NE47 0BX, tel 01434 673 350 www.qhotels.co.uk/slaley-hall

Newbiggin Golf Club Excellent 18 hole links course

VISITORS & SOCIETIES WELCOME Telephone John Young, General Manager on 01670 817344 or email info@newbiggingolfclub.co.uk

Golf Lesssons Junior 30 Minute Individual Lessons now only £5 Ladies & Gents Individual 30 Minute Lessons now only £10 Please call Colin Ferguson PGA Professional to book your lesson on 01670 817344 ext 4

Twilight Tee Time Rates Mon – Fri From 2pm Only £14 per person Weekend £15 per person Book your teetime online: www.newbiggingolfclub.co.uk

Open Competitions Book Online www.newbiggingolfclub.co.uk Enter online www.newbiggingolfclub.co.uk or telephone John Young, General Manager on 01670 817344

The Clubhouse, Newbiggin by the Sea, NE64 6DW

FANTASTIC MEMBERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AT SLALEY HALL Q Fairway - £375 for 100 points ‘The Hunting Course is back’ Use points on Golf, Buggies, Driving Range & Leisure – The most flexible membership out there!!!!!

Full Membership - 7 day ONLY £975, 5 day ONLY £680 Enjoy unlimited golf on both Championship golf courses, private parking, members only lounge

Residential Golf Breaks - Golf dinner, bed & breakfast from ONLY £89 per person

Call:

01434 676 525 Visit: www.qhotels.co.uk/golf

Terms and conditions apply. 20% bar credit and prize table offer based on a minimum of 12 golfers. Subject to new bookings only

NORTHERN GOLFER 43

GOLFERTIPS

THINK LIKE A PRO MAKE BETTER DECISIONS TO IMPROVE YOUR SCORES

One of the fastest ways to improve your scoring is to think about each shot in the same way a professional does.

Improving your shot selection from the tee and to the green will lead to huge improvements in scoring - without hitting any balls on the range.

A hole measuring more than 250 yards does not automatically require driver from the tee, assess the hole before choosing a club.

Is there a hazard at your average driving distance? Can you find the green with your second shot while taking that trouble out of play?

Apply the same process as above on your approach shots. Here I have a shot to a flag protected by a bunker and a steep run off area.

Rather than risking a bunker shot or a tricky up-and-down from the short side, play to the centre of the green in the knowledge that a less than perfect shot leaves you with a putt for birdie rather than a difficult up-and-down.

A yardage book, range finder and knowing how far you hit each club are important tools in making the right decision for each shot.

Johnon HaartfreinsHall M

400 61 886 6 1 0 l te ll.com tfenha a .m w ww

Shot selection from the tee is key to scoring - the lowest scores are made from the fairway.

44 NORTHERN GOLFER

Wynyard Golf Club

An exceptional golf experience

Summer Specials until 30th September 2016 4 BALL - £159.00 – Coffee & Bacon Rolls followed by 18 Holes on the Championship Wellington Course 2 BALL - £89.00

– Coffee & Bacon Rolls followed by 18 Holes on the Championship Wellington Course.

Contact Golf Bookings on 01740 644399 ext. 22 or email proshop@wynyardgolfclub.co.uk to reserve your tee time www.wynyardgolfclub.co.uk

Designed by Dr Alister MacKenzie, The Augusta of the North.

L I FES T YLE £170 Membership Full SMGC member benefits Club and Open Competition rights Managed CONGU handicap

To join now or to find out more Call Southmoor Golf Club 01207 232 848 Or search “Southmoor Lifestyle” NORTHERN GOLFER 45

GOLFGEAR

Wellequipped Dean Bailey takes a look at this month’s new releases The sun is shining, some of the time, and the golf season is in full swing across the North East. With more time to play and sharpen your game, it’s a great time to get

to grips with a new driver, swap out those wedges or brighten up your wardrobe for the summer. Here we showcase new releases from Callaway, Titleist, G/FORE and more.

BEST FOOT FORWARD Callaway 2016 footwear RRP: £49.99-£179.99 uk.callawaygolf.com Callaway has released its most advanced range of footwear to date across its X, Chev, Del Mar and Sky collections. The 2016 range is headlined by the Xfer Nitro (pictured), which features Force Flex Control Channels and the Big Bertha Power Cleat to ensure a solid footing during the golf swing. The enhanced interior technology also promises a comfortable fit for all 18 holes.

THE KING

BIG TOYS

Cobra King Utility Iron RRP: £149 (steel) £169 (graphite) cobragolf.co.uk

BIG MAX QUAD electric trolleys RRP: HUNTER QUAD £699 COASTER QUAD BRAKE £799 bigmaxgolf.com

Cobra has unveiled its first adjustable, hollow utility iron with multiple loft settings. The King Utility features MyFly8 technology, allowing you to adjust the loft - from 18-22 degrees - to fit your game. The new L-Cup face design provides the feel of an iron with the performance of a hybrid to give a higher launch and increased ball speed.

PROOF OF CONCEPT Titleist C16 driver and irons RRP: TBC titleist.co.uk Titleist has released a small set of concept clubs from its C16 development the Concept C16 driver and Concept C16 irons. The new driver, which can offer up to nine yards more distance than the 915 in testing, comes with SureFit CG weight, loft and lie adjustability. The new irons also promise more distance based on their predecessor, the AP1, with forged heads and tungsten weighting. Expect news of a full launch soon.

46 NORTHERN GOLFER

BIG MAX is set to launch its first range of electric trolleys soon with the HUNTER QUAD and COASTER QUAD BRAKE. Europe’s leading push-trolley brand in recent years, BIG MAX’s new trolleys feature a fourwheel base for stability and a lithium battery as standard.

INTHEBAG

IN THE BAG HIGH FASHION

featuring Branden Grace, winner of the PGA Tour’s RBC Heritage

G/Fore clothing range RRP: £75 - £199 gfore.com Designer brand G/Fore has launched its first women’s collection for Spring/ Summer 2016, bringing trend-setting designs to the golf course. The fashionable line features outfits perfect for the course and the clubhouse, while the men’s range has also been expanded for 2016 with performance fabrics and the same fashionable look for on and off the course.

LOOKING GOOD Mizuno Spring/Summer 2016 apparel RRP: from £60 golf.mizunoeurope.com Mizuno has unveiled its Spring/Summer 2016 apparel range, as worn by Chris Wood on the European Tour. Bringing together style and performance, the range is designed around three distinct layers – inner, which incorporates Drylite technology; mid, which features Warmlite and Windlite clothing; and outer which includes windproof jackets and vests.

Branden Grace stormed past Callaway Big Luke Donald in the final Bertha Alpha round of the RBC Heritage at 816 (16°) Harbour Town to claim his first PGA Tour title in April.

The South African, who shot a closing round of 66 to finish one-shot ahead of Donald and Russell Knox, is a Callaway ambassador and fished second in strokes gained tee-to-green at Harbour Town.

Grace has made two notable changes at the top of his bag this year, replacing his Callaway Big Bertha Alpha 816 Double Black Diamond Callaway X driver with the new XR16 Sub Forged ‘13 (4-PW) Zero, and adding a 16-degree Big Bertha Alpha 816 3-wood for the RBC Heritage.

Here’s what’s in his bag…

Callaway XR16 Sub Zero (8.5°)

Callaway Apex UT (3-iron)

Callaway Mack Daddy 2 Tour Grind (52°, 56°, 60°) Titleist Pro V1x

Odyssey Versa V Line (White-Black-White) NORTHERN GOLFER 47

COURSEREVIEW

Stunning Skipton Alan Hedley takes on a course in the Yorkshire Dales partly shaped by the man who created Augusta

T

here are some truly captivating courses in the Yorkshire Dales and Skipton falls neatly into that category.

In the heart of the Dales on the edge of Skipton town, the views of Sharphaw, Crookrise and Embsay Crag are superb.

Eller Beck provides a beautiful backdrop as it meanders through the back nine, three of which constitute the club’s very own Amen Corner, with the signature hole 16th the jewel in the crown.

In its early days, Augusta National course designer Alister McKenzie was brought in to shape the course and some of his greens, with his trademark two tiers, still survive.

It’s a tribute to the club that it has maintained an excellent 18-hole interim layout while work

48 NORTHERN GOLFER

on a flood defence scheme has been ongoing and there are exciting plans to improve the course.

The interim layout hasn’t affected the playability of Skipton - it’s never been closed this winter - and that’s not lost on visitors and members, who have remained loyal.

In return, the membership fee has been frozen for three years and brings with it free golf exchanges at five partner clubs and free public liability insurance. There is also a discount for new members in their first year as well as new flexible membership categories.

Skipton also prides itself on its junior golf programme and was one of three finalists and the northern region winner of the English Golf Union’s Club of the Year.

At just under 6,000 yards currently, the course is not long by modern standards, but every hole is different and it is most certainly an enjoyable test.

You won’t get bored here - that’s a promise either with the quality of each hole or the view.

Unusually, the course starts with a par three, which is a test in itself early in the round, while the tree-lined par five second with out of bounds is no pushover and the third is an excellent 400 yards-plus par four well worth it’s stroke index one rating.

Three dog-leg par fours follow - none of them easy although the fourth is a good birdie chance while five and six are less so - the latter being a particularly severe left to righter with trees on the corner, and it measures more than 420 yards.

The seventh is a drivable par four, the treelined eighth is not, but both are reasonable birdie chances while a par at long par four ninth, which has out of bounds on the right, is a real result.

The back nine starts with a tricky tree-lined par four and the 11th, at just over 100 yards, is all about accuracy and feel while the 12th is also a par three but at around 220 yards is

COURSEREVIEW

FACT FILE CONTACT Skipton Golf Club Short Lee Lane, Skipton, BD23 3LF Tel: 01756 795 657 Pro: 01756 793 257 Email: enquiries@skiptongolfclub.co.uk Web: www.skiptongolfclub.co.uk GREEN FEES Weekdays £28 Weekends £30 Special offers for societies and groups

a very different proposition.

As you approach Skipton’s own Amen Corner, the 13th is another 400-yarder and par or better will set you up for the three holes which can make or break your card.

The 14th and 15th aren’t long par fours but there are plenty of trees either side and the beck is ever present - they aren’t stroke index four and two for nothing, and they’re followed by the signature hole 16th (see fact file).

Three terrific holes which can wreck your card but negotiate them without too much damage and the finish of solid par fours at 17 and at the 18th offers the chance of a comeback to put you in good spirits for the 19th, which has spectacular views of the Dales, and where you will be given a very warm welcome.

The modern clubhouse boasts a smart lounge, bar and restaurant and is popular with members and visitors alike, no surprise given the first-class catering and service provided by a new team and there is also disabled access with priority car parking.

Skipton has taken advantage of working with the Environment Agency on a flood prevention scheme for the town.

The financial settlement negotiated with the Environment Agency will fund the building of two new par four holes on recently acquired land and the current par four ninth hole will be extended to provide a challenging par five.

When the new holes are in play the current short first hole will become available as a short game practice area and a new 16th green is also planned, landscaped into a new embankment, and a new back tee is planned for the final hole, which will create a testing drive over the beck to the 18th fairway

TOTAL DISTANCE White tees 5,871 yards Yellow tees 5,592 yards Red tees 5,148 yards FEATURES Practice area under development Putting green Clubhouse lounge, bar and restaurant Changing rooms Snooker room Pro shop Trolley, buggy and club hire PGA Professional tuition Junior Academy CADDY’S TIP Find the fairways and you will be presented with scoring opportunities SIGNATURE HOLE The 16th is a cracking par three of nearly 200 yards. Played from an elevated tee, it requires a carry over the beck which runs down the left and in front of the green. There’s also plenty of trees to worry about. It is a superb hole and part of the club’s own Amen Corner

OUR VERDICT A really fine test of golf in lovely surroundings and a joy to play

NORTHERN GOLFER 49

GOLFERCOMPETITIONS

win

Northern Golfer competitions are also listed on our website www.northerngolfer.co.uk/competitions, Alternatively, you can enter via email at competitions@northerngolfer.co.uk (mark the competition name in the subject field) or post your entry to: Competitions, Northern Golfer, Unit One, Bearl Farm, Stocksfield, Northumberland, NE43 7AL

Please include your contact details and telephone number.

Closing date Thursday June 9 2016. Usual competition rules apply – available on request. Winners will be published in our next edition.

.WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT POWFOOT GOLF CLUB. Set in stunning scenery in Dumfriesshire, Powfoot Golf Club is a challenging mix of links and parkland golf. A James Braid design dating back to the start of the 20th Century, the course is a delight to play, while the warm welcome makes this a popular place to visit.

For your chance to win answer this question: In which year did Royal Troon last host The Open Championship?

.GOLF FOR FOUR AT DUMFRIES & COUNTY GOLF CLUB.

.WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT WHICKHAM GOLF CLUB.

On the outskirts of Dumfries, Dumfries & County Golf Club is one of the area’s finest parkland tracks. The 5,925-yard par 69 layout was redesigned by James Braid in 1929 to offer a balanced, and in places tough, test of golf.

Whickham Golf Club was founded in 1911 and moved to its present site at Hollinside Park in 1938. Developed on rolling hillside, Whickham has matured into a fine test of golf, examining every facet of your game. A thinking player’s course, the emphasis here is on accuracy.

For your chance to win answer this question: From which county does Masters champion Danny Willett hail?

For your chance to win answer this question: How many majors has Tiger Woods won?

Congratulations to last month’s competition winners: Eaglescliffe: Craig King of South Shields; Wilton: Suzanne Taylor of Shoeburyness Allendale: John Martin of Northallerton

CENTURION PARK ONLY 4 MILES FROM NEWCASTLE CITY CENTRE...

Visitors & Societies welcome | Excellent Membership deals for 2016 - ring the Secretary on 0191 2621973 SUMMER GREEN FEES

Weekdays £14 - Weekends £16 4 Ball Weekdays £40 - Weekends £50 THURSDAY SPECIAL - ONLY £10 inc Free sandwich Play 5 rounds get 6th FREE www.centurionpark.com 50 NORTHERN GOLFER

OPEN EVENTS

Saturday June 11th - Centurion Park Open in aid of British Heart Foundation 4BBB Stableford £20 couple Saturday 17th July - Support our Soldiers Team Event - Betterball, 2 from 4, £40 team Big ££££ Prizes

Contact the Pro Shop to book or for more information on 0191 2624231 ext 2

DRIVING RANGE 24 Floodlit bays Brand New Srixon balls 50 balls Only £3 100 balls Only £5

Rheydt Avenue, Wallsend NE28 8SU

GREENSOMES&MATCHPLAY LADIES PAIRS APPLICATION FORM For your chance to win a golf break to Matfen Hall, simply fill in this application form and send it to:

Ladies Greensomes

Tournament Organiser, Northern Golfer, Offstone Publishing Unit One, Bearl Farm, Stocksfield, Northumberland, NE43 7AL DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES: TUESDAY MAY 31, 2016

Entries extended to May 31

W

e’ve extended the entry period for this year’s Ladies Greensomes to May 31 to give more of you the chance to get involved.

The event, which is sponsored by Matfen Hall, sees pairs of ladies, who are active members of golf clubs with a handicap of 36 or less and aged over 18, compete in knockout match play rounds at courses around the region

ahead of the semi-finals and final at Matfen Hall in September.

The winning pair will receive a two-night stay for four people at Matfen Hall, which includes dinner, bed and breakfast, use of the spa facilities and two rounds of golf as well as the championship trophy.

To enter this year’s Northern Golfer Ladies Greensomes Championship, fill in the coupon or go to www.northerngolfer.co.uk

For rules visit: www.northerngolfer.co.uk/ladies-greensomes

MATCH PLAY PAIRS Preliminary round draw

LEAD PLAYER PLAYER NAME

HANDICAP GOLF CLUB

ADDRESS POSTCODE TEL (DAY)

TEL (EVE)

EMAIL

PARTNER

HANDICAP

PLAYER NAME

GOLF CLUB

ADDRESS POSTCODE

1. Tony Sher (19) & Jimmy Broadfoot (11) (Sharpley Springs/Prudhoe) V Colin Marshall (14) & Paul Tindale (11) (Durham City)

7. Jamie McPhillips (8) & Craig Beadling (9) (Romanby) V Robert Cooper (7) & Luke Eustace (10) (Panal/Selby)

2. David Jenkinson (15) & Tony Kelly (13) (Wearside/Powfoot) V Neil Baker (10) & Carl Hunter (5) (Hobson)

8. T. Kellet (9) & Paul Kellet (12) (Billingham) V Stuart McIntosh (19) & Craig Watts (7) (Wilton)

PAYMENT:

3. Keith Muldoon (24) & Phil Fitzimons (16) (Garesfield) V Stephen Weldon (10) & Alan Saunders (12) (Westerhope)

9. David Hornsey (6) & Barry Cranston (10) (Slaley Hall/Consett) V Andrew Cunningham (3) & Kevin Henderson (6) (Arcot Hall)

Card Number

4. Geoff Newton (18) & Stuart Cuthbert (15) (Wilton) V Alastair Raine (13) & Chris Woodhams (13) (Redcar)

10. Ian Irving (11) & Gary Foxwell (2) (Arcot Hall) V Graeme Robson (6) & John Potts (13) (Ramside Hall)

5. G. Kingsland (21) & J. P. Mayne (14) (Linden Hall) V Blaine Patton (15) & Gary Atkinson (15) (Durham City)

11. Match TBC

TEL (DAY)

TEL (EVE)

EMAIL

ENTRY FEE

I have enclosed a cheque made payable to Offstone Publishing for £10  Or I authorise Offstone Publishing to debit my Mastercard/Visa/Maestro/Delta card by £10 only

Issue No:

Valid from:

(Maestro only)



£10

Exp date:

CSC: (3 digits on the

6. Stephen Fawcus (13) & Darren McCaig (4) (Whickam) V Duncan Foster (12) & Neil Timbey (13) (South Moor)

12. Match TBC

back of your card)

Cardholders Signature:

Please fill in the name and address the card is registered to: Title

Inital

Surname

Address

ALL OTHER COMPETITORS HAVE A BYE INTO R1 PRELIM MATCHES TO BE PLAYED BY MONDAY MAY 30, 2016

Northern Golfer would like to keep you informed of our news, offers and competitions. If you prefer NOT to recieve our newsletter please tick this box  NORTHERN GOLFER 51

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Pick up a copy of Northern Golfer at any of these venues

COUNTY DURHAM Barnard Castle Golf Club Harmire Rd, Barnard Castle, DL12 8QN 01833 638 355

To be listed or to advertise please call 01661 844115 or email enquiries@northerngolfer.co.uk

Beamish Park Golf Club Beamish Park, Stanley, DH9 0RH 0191 370 1382 Birtley Golf Club Portobello Road, Birtley, Chester-le-Street, DH3 2LR 0191 410 2207 Bishop Auckland Golf Club High Plains, Bishop Auckland, DL14 8DL 01388 661 618 Blackwell Grange Golf Club Snipe Lane, Darlington, DL2 2SA 01325 464 458 Brancepeth Castle Golf Club Brancepeth Castle, DH7 8EA 0191 378 0075 Castle Eden Golf Club Castle Eden, TS27 4SS 01429 836 510 Chester le Street Golf Club Lumley Pk, Chester le Street, DH3 4NS 0191 388 3218 Cocken Lodge Golf Cocken Lodge Farm, Leamside, DH4 6QP 0191 584 1053 Consett & District Golf Club Elmfield Road, Consett, DH8 5NN 01207 505 060 Crook Golf Club Low Jobs Hill, Crook DL15 9AA 01388 762 429 Darlington Golf Club Haughton Road, Darlington, DL1 3JD 01325 355 324 Dinsdale Spa Golf Club Middleton St George, Darlington, DL2 1DW 01325 332 297 Durham City Golf Club Littleburn, Langley Moor, DH7 8HL 0191 378 0029 Hallgarth Hotel Golf & Country Club Coatham Munderville, Darlington, DL1 3LU 01325 300 400 Hobson Golf Club Hobson, Near Burnopfield, NE16 6BZ 01207 270 941 Ineos Golf Club School Aycliffe Lane, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 6EA. Sec: Patrick Montgomery, 07974 742 679

52 NORTHERN GOLFER

Oak Leaf Golf Club School Aycliffe Lane, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 4EF 01325 310 820 Ramside Hall Golf Club Ramside Hall Hotel, Carville, Durham, DH1 1TD 0191 386 9514 Rockliffe Hall Golf Club Hurworth-on-Tees,Darlington, DL2 2DU 01325 729 980

Bamburgh Castle Golf Club The Wynding, Bamburgh, NE69 7DE 01668 214 321

Seahouses Golf Club Beadnell Road, Seahouses, NE68 7XT 01665 720 794

Saltburn by the Sea Golf Club Hob Hill, Saltburn by the Sea, TS12 1NJ 01287 622 812

Bedlingtonshire Golf Club Acorn Bank, Bedlington, NE22 6AA 01670 822 457

Slaley Hall Slaley, Hexham, NE47 0BX 01434 673 350

Seaton Carew Golf Club Tees Road, Seaton Carew, TS25 1DE 01429 266 249

Belford Golf Club South Road, Belford, NE70 7DP 01668 213 232

Stocksfield Golf Club New Ridley Rd,Stocksfield, NE43 7RE 01661 843 041

Bellingham Golf Club Boggle Hole, Bellingham, NE48 2DT 01434 220 152

Tynedale Golf Club Tyne Green, Hexham, NE46 3HQ 01434 608 154

Teesside Golf Club Acklam Road, Thornaby Stockton on Tees TS17 7JS 01642 616 516

Blyth Golf Club New Delaval, Blyth, NE24 4DB 01670 540 110

Warkworth Golf Club The Links, Warkworth, NE65 OSW 01665 711 596

Burgham Park Golf Club Near Felton, Morpeth, NE65 8QP 01670 787 898

Wooler Golf Club Dod Law, Doddington, Wooler, NE71 6AN 01668 282 135

Close House Heddon-on-the-Wall, NE15 0HT 01661 852 953 Dunstanburgh Golf Club Embleton, NE66 3XQ 01665 576 562

Roseberry Grange Community Golf Club Grange Villa, Chester le Street, DH2 3NF 0191 370 0660

Goswick Golf Club Goswick Beal, TD15 2RW 01289 387 256

Seaham Golf Club Shrewsbury Street, Seaham, SR7 7RD 0191 581 1268

Gubeon Golf Centre Walton Road, Morpeth, NE61 3YJ 01670 519 090

Sharpley Golf Seaton, Seaham, Co Durham, SR7 0NP 0191 513 1100

Haltwhistle Golf Club Banktop, Greenhead, NE49 9JR 01697 747367

South Moor Golf Cub The Middles, Craghead, Stanley, DH9 6AG 01207 232 848

Hexham Golf Club Spital Lane, Hexham, NE46 3RZ 01434 603 072

Woodham Golf & Country Club Burnhill Way, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 4PN 01325 319977

Longhirst Hall Golf Club Longhirst Hall, Morpeth, NE61 3LL 01670 791 562

CUMBRIA Brampton Golf Club Talkin Tarn, Brampton, CA8 1HN 01697 72255 Seascale Golf Club The Banks, Seascale, CA20 1QL 019467 28202

NORTHUMBERLAND Allendale Golf Club High Studden, Allenheads Road Allendale, NE47 9QL 01434 683 926 Alnmouth Golf Club Foxton Hall, Alnmouth, NE66 3BE 01665 830 231 Alnmouth Village Golf Club Marine Road, Alnmouth, NE66 2RZ 01665 830 370 Alnwick Castle Golf Club Swansfield Park, Alnwick, NE66 2AB 01665 602 632 Arcot Hall Golf Club Dudley, Cramlington NE23 7QP 0191 236 2794

Macdonald Linden Hall Golf and Country Club Longhorsley, Morpeth, NE65 8XF 01670 500 011 Matfen Hall Golf Club Matfen, NE20 0RH 01661 886 400 Magdalene Fields Golf Club Berwick-upon-Tweed, TD15 1NE 01289 306 130 Morpeth Golf club Loansdean, Morpeth, NE61 2BT 01670 504 942 Newbiggin Golf Club Newbiggin NE64 3DW 01670 817 344 Percy Wood Golf Club Coast View, Swarland, Felton, NE65 9JG 01670 787 010 Ponteland Golf Club 53 Bell Villas, Ponteland, NE20 9BD 01661 822 689 Prudhoe Golf Club Eastwood Park, Prudhoe, NE42 5DX 01661 832 466 Rothbury Golf Club Whitton Bank Rd, Rothbury, NE65 7RX 01669 621 271

Wilton Golf Club Wilton,Near Redcar, TS10 4QY 01642 465 265 Wynyard Hall Golf Club Wellington Drive, Wynyard Park Billingham, TS22 5NQ 01740 644 399

TYNE AND WEAR SCOTTISH BORDERS Eyemouth Golf Club Gunsgreenhill, Eyemouth, D14 5SF 01890 750 004 Hirsel Golf Club Kelso Road, Coldstream TD12 4NJ 01890 882 678 Roxburghe Golf Club Kelso, Roxburghshire, TD5 8JZ 01573 450 333

TEESSIDE Billingham Golf Club Sandy Lane, Billingham, TS22 5NA 01642 533 816 Cleveland Golf Club Majuba Road, Redcar, Cleveland TS10 5BJ 01642 471 798 Eaglescliffe & District Golf Club Yarm Road, Eaglescliffe, TS16 0DQ 01642 780 238 Hartlepool Golf Club Hart Warren, Hartlepool, TS24 9QF 01429 274 398 High Throston Golf Club Hart Lane, Hartlepool, TS26 0UG 01429 268 071 Hunley Hotel & Golf Club Brotton, By Saltburn, TS12 2QN 01287 677 444 Ingleby Barwick Golf Club Lullingstone Crescent, Ingleby Barwick, Stockton on Tees, TS17 5GJ 01642 765 000 Knotty Hill Golf Centre Sedgefield, Stockton on Tees, TS21 2BB 01740 620 320 Middlesbrough Golf Club Brass Castle Lane, Middlesbrough TS8 9EE 01642 311 515

Backworth Golf Club The Hall, Backworth, NE27 0AH 0191 268 4274 Beamish Park Hotel Golf & Driving Range, Marley Hill, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE16 5EG 01207 230666 Boldon Golf Club Dipe Lane, East Boldon, NE36 0PQ 0191 536 5360 Centurion Park Golf Club Rheydt Avenue, Wallsend, NE28 8SU 0191 263 0041 City of Newcastle Golf Club Three Mile Bridge, Gosforth Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 2DR 0191 285 1775 Garesfield Golf Club Chopwell, NE17 7AP 01207 561 309 George Washington Golf Club Stone Cellars Road, Concorde Washington, NE37 1PH 0191 417 8346 Gosforth Golf Club Broadway East, Gosforth Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 5ER 0191 285 3495 Heworth Golf Club Gingling Gate, Heworth, Gateshead, NE10 8XY 0191 469 9832 Hetton le Hill Golf Club Elemore Vale, Easington Lane, DH5 0QR 0191 517 3061 Houghton le Spring Golf Club Copt Hill, Houghton le Spring, DH5 8LU 0191 584 7421 Newcastle United Golf Club 60 Ponteland Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE5 3JW 0191 286 9998

Middlesbrough Municipal Golf Club Ladgate Lane, Middlesbrough, TS5 7YZ 01642 315 533

Northumberland Golf Club High Gosforth Park, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 5HT 0191 236 2009

Norton Golf Club Blakestone Lane, Norton Stockton on Tees, TS20 3LQ 01642 676 385

Parklands Golf Club High Gosforth Park, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 5HQ 0191 236 4480

Ryton Golf Club Clara Vale, Ryton, NE40 3TD 0191 413 3253

Filey Golf Club West Avenue, Filey, YO14 9BQ 01723 513293

South Shields Golf Club Cleadon Hills, South Shields, NE34 8EG 0191 456 8942

Forest of Galtres Golf Club Skelton, York, YO32 2RF 01904 766198

Tynemouth Golf Club Spital Dene, Tynemouth, NE30 2ER 0191 257 4578

Forest Park Golf Club Stockton-on-Forest, York, YO32 9HF 01904 400 425

Tyneside Golf Club Westfield Lane, Ryton, NE40 3QE 0191 413 2742

Fulford Golf Club Heslington Lane, York, YO10 5DY 01904 413 579

Wearside Golf Club Cox Green, Sunderland, SR4 9JT 0191 534 2518

Ganton Golf Club Station Road, Ganton, Scarborough, YO12 4PA 01944 710 329 Harrogate Golf Club Forest Lane Head, Harrogate, HG2 7TF 01423 862 999

Whickham Golf Club Hollinside Park, Fellside Road Whickham, NE16 5BA 0191 488 1576

Heworth Golf Club Muncaster House, Muncastergate, YO31 9JY 01904 426 156

Whitburn Golf Club Lizard Lane, South Shields, NE34 7AF 0191 529 4210

Kirkbymoorside Golf Club Manor Vale, Kirkbymoorside, YO62 6EG 01751 431 525

Whitley Bay Golf Club Claremont Rd, Whitley Bay, NE26 3UF 0191 252 0180

Knaresborough Golf Club Boroughbridge Road, Knaresborough, HG5 0QQ 01423 862 690

YORKSHIRE (EAST)

Malton & Norton Golf Club Welham Park, Welham Road, Norton,Malton, YO17 9QE 01653 697 912

Beverley and East Riding Golf Club Anti Mill, Westwood, Beverley, HU17 8RG 01482 868757 Bridlington Golf Club Belvedere Road, Bridlington, YO15 3NA 01262 606 367 Bridlington Links Golf Club Flamborough Road, Marton, Bridlington, YO15 1DW 01262 401 584 Driffield Golf Club Sunderlandwick, Driffield, YO25 9AD 01377 253 116

Masham Golf Club Burnholme, Swinton Road, Masham, Ripon, HG4 4NS 01765 688 054 Oakdale Golf Club Oakdale, Harrogate, HG1 2LN 01423 567 162 Pannal Golf CLub Follifoot Road, Pannal, HG3 1ES 01423 872 628

Scarborough South Cliff Golf Club Deepdale Avenue, off Filey Road, YO11 2UE 01723 360 522 Scarthingwell Golf Club The Scarthingwell Centre, Scarthingwell, Tadcaster, LS24 9PF 01937 557 878 Selby Golf Club Mill Lane, Brayton, YO8 9LD 01757 228 622 Skipton Golf Club Short Lee Lane, Skipton, BD23 3LF 01756 795 657 The Oaks Golf Club Aughton Common, Aughton, YO42 4PW 01757 288 577 Thirsk & Northallerton Golf Club Thornton le Street, Thirsk, YO7 4AB 01845 525 115 Whitby Golf Club Low Straggleton, Whitby, YO21 3SR 01947 600 660 York Golf Club Lords Moor Lane, Strensall, YO32 5XF 01904 491 840

YORKSHIRE (WEST) Bradford Golf Club Hawksworth Lane, Guiseley, LS20 8NP 01943 875570 Cookridge Golf Club Cookridge Lane, Cookridge, Leeds, LS16 7NL 0113 230 0641 Dewsbury District Golf Club The Pinnacle, Sands Lane, Mirfield, WF14 8HJ 01924 492399 Garforth Driving Range Barwick Road, Garforth, Leeds, LS25 2DN 0113 287 1111

Mid Yorkshire Golf Club Havercroft Lane, Pontefract, Darrington, WF8 3BP 01977 704522 Moor Allerton Golf Club Coal Road, Wike, Leeds, LS17 9NH 0113 266 1154

Jeffrey Musgrove Golf Shop Garesfield Golf Club Chopwell, NE17 7AP 01207 563082

Otley Golf Club West Busk Lane, Otley, Leeds, LS21 3NG 01943 465 329

Leda Discount Golf Centre Grange Villa, Chester le Street, DH2 3NF 0191 370 1757

Oulton Hall Rothwell Lane, Oulton, Leeds, Yorkshire, LS26 8HN 0871 222 4690

Marshalls Golf Heworth Golf Club, Gingling Gate, Heworth, NE10 8HY 0191 4384223

Pontefact & District Golf Club Park Lane, Pontefract, WF8 4QS 01977 792241

Gordon Catterill Golf Shop Middlesbrough Golf Club, Brass Castle Lane, TS8 9EE 01642 311766

Rawdon Golf and Lawn Tennis Club Buckstone Drive, Rawdon, Leeds, LS19 6BB 0113 2506040 Sand Moor Golf Club Alwoodley Lane, Leeds, LS17 7DJ 0113 268 5180

Philips Golf Discount Unit 3 Strand Business Centre Locomotion Way, Camperdown Ind Est Killingworth, NE12 5UJ 0191 268 0008

Scarcroft Golf Club Syke Lane, Leeds, LS14 3BQ 0113 289 2263

Riverdale Hotel Bellingham NE48 2JT 01434 220 254

Wakefield Golf Club 28 Woodthorpe Lane, WF2 6JH 01924 258778

Snainton Golf Direct Coast View, Swarland, Felton, NE65 9JG 01670 787 010

Woodhall Hills Golf Club Woodhall Road, Calverley, Pudsey, LS28 5UN 0113 255 4594

Sunderland Golf Centre Newcastle Road, Sunderland, Tyne & Wear, SR5 1JT. 0191 516 8600

OTHER GOLF OUTLETS

The Golf Factory 678 West Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE5 2UR 07837 001527

Headlingly Golf Club Back Church Lane, Adel, Leeds, LS16 8DW 0113 267 9573

Aslan Golf Lizard Lane, Whitburn, NE34 7AF 0191 5294210

Ripon Golf Club Palace Road, Ripon, HG4 3HH 01765 603 640

Hollins Hall Hollins Hill, Baildon, Shipley, Bradford, BD17 7QW 01274 530 053

YORKSHIRE (NORTH)

Romanby Golf Club Yafforth Road, Northallerton, DL7 0PE 01609 778 855

Horsforth Golf Club Layton Rise, Horsforth, Leeds, LS18 5EX 0113 258 6819

Bargain Golf Seaham Golf Club, Shrewsbury Street, Seaham, SR7 7RD 0191 5130837 & Hobson Golf Club Burnopfield, Newcastle, NE16 6BZ 01207 271605

Aldwark Manor Golf Club Aldwark Alne,YO61 1UF 01347 838 146

Rudding Park Golf Club Rudding Park, Harrogate, HG3 1JH 01423 872 100

Huddersfield Golf Club Fixby Hall, Lightridge Rd, HD2 2EP 01484 426203

Bedale Golf Club Leyburn Road, Bedale, DL8 1EZ 01677 422 451

Sandburn Hall Golf Club Flaxton, York, YO60 7RB 01904 469 929

Leeds Golf Club Elmete Lane, Leeds, LS8 2LJ 0113 265 9203

Dan Hookway Blyth Golf Club New Delaval, Blyth, NE24 4DB 01670 540 110

Scalm Park Golf Club Bishop Wood, Wistow Common, Selby, YO8 3RD 01757 210 846

Leeds Golf Centre Wike Ridge Lane, Shadwell, Leeds LS17 9JW 0113 288 6000

Dynamic Indoor Golf Wideopen, Newcastle, NE13 7BA 0191 481 3590

Hornsea Golf Club Rolston Rd, Hornsea, HU18 1XG 01964 534989 The KP Golf Club Pocklington, York, YO42 1UF 01759 303 090

Catterick Golf Club Leyburn Road, Catterick Garrison, DL9 3QE 01748 833 268

Richmond Golf Club Bend Hagg, Richmond, DL10 5EX 01748 823 231

Stokesley Driving Range Broughton Road, Stokesley, TS9 5JJ

Wetherby Golf Club Linton Lane, Linton, Wetherby, LS22 4JF 01937 580 089

Andy Paisley Golf Centre, Hexham Golf Club, Spittal Lane, Hexham, NE46 3RZ 01434 603 072

Pike Hills Golf Club Tadcaster Road, Askham Bryan, YO23 3UW 01904 700 797

George Paylor 5th Tee 27 Horsley Avenue, Crawcrook, NE40 4XF 07737 963881

Moortown Golf Club Harrogate Road, Leeds, LS17 7DB 0113 268 6521

Garforth Golf Club Long Lane, Garforth, Leeds, LS25 2DS 0113 286 2021

Flamborough Head Golf Club Lighthouse Road, Flamborough, Bridlington, YO15 1AR 01262 850 333

Eureka Copt Hill, Houghton le Spring, DH5 8LU 0191 584 1198

Custom Fit Golf South Moor Golf Club Superstore Craghead, Stanley DH9 6AG 01207 283 525

Tim Jenkins Golf Cleveland Golf Club, Majuba Road, Redcar, TS10 5BJ 01642 471 798 also at Castle Eden Golf Club, Castle Eden, TS27 4SS 01429 836689 The Hobson Golf Range Hobson Golf Club, Burnopfield, NE16 6BZ ZFL Golf Unit 8d, North Tyne Ind. Estate, NE12 9SZ 0191 270 2362 SELECTED TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES ALNWICK, BELLINGHAM, BERWICK, CORBRIDGE, HALTWHISTLE, HEXHAM MORPETH, NEWCASTLE, ROYAL QUAYS, SALTBURN, SEAHOUSES WHITLEY BAY AND SELECTED GOLF CLUBS IN THE BORDERS AND CUMBRIA

NORTHERN GOLFER 53

To be listed or to advertise please call 01661 844115 or email enquiries@northerngolfer.co.uk

Westerhope Golf Club Whorlton Grange, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE5 1PP 0191 286 9125

Scarborough North Cliff Golf Club North Cliff Avenue, Scarborough, YO12 6PP 01723 355 397

directory

Easingwold Golf Club Stillington Road, Easingwold, YO61 3ET 01347 822 474

NOR THERN

Ravensworth Golf Club Angel View, Longbank, Gateshead, NE9 7UU 0191 487 6014

from the

bunker Tony Boyd and five members of Hobson have been in touch to tell us about their memorable trip to The Masters at Augusta National.

Tony said: “The whole experience was mind blowing. From the moment you leave the car park you get the feeling this is going to be special. It didn’t disappoint! The first thing that strikes you is how hilly the course is, something TV can’t really highlight, and it’s amazing how close you can get to the action.

“The respect given to each spectator’s chair is fascinating. You can place it in one of the viewing areas and return hours later to find it there for you.

We positioned ours on the 17th tee so we could see the drives and watch the shots landing on the 16th green.

“Oddly, using the toilets is a source of great amusement. There is a group of good humoured attendants keeping the queue moving and some of the one liners they use are comical: ‘15 seconds to aim it, 15 seconds to drain it’ and ‘Shake it don’t break it.’ God forbid you want to go in a cubicle, on which they would shout: ‘we got a sitter here’ - all done with humour.

“The only disappointment was not being allowed to take any photos. We did manage to get an official photo taken outside the Butler Cabin though. Oh, and the pimento sandwich - a must at Augusta - tasted no better than a Greggs cheese savoury!” Thanks Tony – sounds like a great trip

Brian Mabbott from Northumbria Golf Breaks wrote to tell us: “58 golfers from the North East enjoyed a great week at Torrox in Spain in April. The winners of the Claret Jug Trophy were Andy & Vicky Tompson from Tyneside. Judith Mains from Gosforth and Ian Marr from Ponteland won the individual events.

Welcome to your reader feedback page. We want to hear your likes, dislikes and funny golfing stories, and if you’d like to make suggestions about Northern Golfer, let us know. We want to hear from you!

Graham May, John Maguire, Trevor Luke, Sean Ashall, Dave McCallum, and Tony Boyd

The team at Northern Golfer are a bright bunch but someone clearly switched the lights off when a story arrived for the April edition from Rockliffe Hall.

Floodlights to allow golf at night seemed like an idea too good to be true – accompanied with a picture.

Indeed it was.

Note to reporters – always check the date on press releases in April. Sorry if, like us, you were hoodwinked by the April Fool. Having said that, perhaps it is not such a daft idea after all...

The new captains are in place at Prudhoe Golf Club.

Men’s captain Danny Ward (above), ladies’ captain Lesley Birkett (below right), and veterans’ captain John McKillup (below left) drove into office in April.

Thanks to Richard Hannam for the news, and the pictures. Good luck to all!

Thanks for the news Brian, if only we could get similar weather here!

Blackwell Grange Golf Club Easy to Play – Difficult to Master

FORTHCOMING OPEN EVENTS Mixed Open Pairs – Bank Holiday Monday 30th May - £15 per person Gents Open Pairs – Saturday 4th June - £15 per person Gents Team Open – Saturday 9th July - £15 per person Seniors Singles Open – Tuesday 26th July - £10 per person

BOOK ON LINE - www.blackwellgrangegolf.com SNIPE LANE, DARLINGTON, DL2 2SA – 01325 464458 54 NORTHERN GOLFER

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SEEN IT CHEAPER? CUSTOM FIT WILL PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE WE WON’T BE BEATEN ON PRICE!

NEW OSCAR JACOBSON SWEATERS, SHIRTS & TROUSERS IN STOCK ALL AT DISCOUNTED PRICES - 2015 RANGE 30% OFF NORMAL PRICE

OVER 100 SETS IN STOCK - BEST PRICE GUARANTEE + FREE FITTING WITH OUR NEW FLIGHT SCOPE XI - THE LATEST ON THE MARKET BUSHNELL GOLF TOUR NEW FREE GPS NEW 2016 V3 RANGE FINDER WITH SUNMOUNTAIN DISTANCE MOTOCADDY PINSEEKER + JOLT VIBRATION H2NO TRACKING TROLLEYS TECHNOLOGY RRP £269 OUR WATERPROOF DEVICE & LITHIUM NEW TITLEIST PRICE £199 + 2 ADDITIONAL STAND/CART WITH ANY BATTERIES LITHIUM SM 6 VOKEY BAGS COBRA BATTERIES INSTORE WEDGES IN IN STOCK KING FREE WORTH FULL ACCESSORY STOCK BEST DRIVER £13.98 RANGE STOCKED PRICE

NEW TITLEIST H2 816 RESCUE WOOD

IN STOCK TITLEIST AP1 & AP2 716 IRON IN STOCK

NEW CALLAWAY APEX 2016 IRONS IN STOCK ALL CUSTOM FIT SHAFT & HEAD OPTIONS AVAILABLE

NEW MIZUNO JPX DRIVERS & JPX EZ IRONS

CLEARANCE ON BRIDGESTONE X-FIT SYNTHETIC LEATHER GLOVES WERE £7.99

CLEARANCE ON GOLF BALLS BRIDGESTONE SOFT FEEL £19.99 NOW £14.99 DOZEN CALLAWAY SR2 £29.99 NOW £14.99 DOZEN

NOW £3.69 TOUR LEATHER CABRETTA WERE £9.00

NOW £4.99

SPECIAL OFFERS ON MANY SETS OF IRONS SAVE £££’S - SEE INSTORE FOR BARGAINS

STAND BAGS FROM £39.99 CART BAGS FROM £54.99

MANY LESS THAN 1/2 PRICE

accurate custom fitting & tuition

Fully stocked store - all major brands In-store Flightscope Xi & golf simulator for We have a massive selection of second hand sets of irons, woods, wedges & drivers in

BOOK YOUR FREE EQUIPMENT CHECK ON OUR STATE OF THE ART GOLF SIMULATOR (APPOINTMENT ONLY WHILE OFFER LASTS) BALL AND CLUB ANALYSIS HAS EVOLVED!!

E.G. OAKLEY SECTOR £79.99 NOW £39.99 STUBURT URBAN £49.99 NOW £24.99

OVER 100 CART & STAND BAGS TO CLEAR

Discounted golf equipment & clothing

SAVE £££’S

1/2 PRICE DEALS ON GOLF SHOES (2015 RANGE)

10% DISCOUNT ON ANY PURCHASE IN MAY

GOLF SHIRTS TO CLEAR ONLY £14.99

RANGE FINDER WATCHES FROM ONLY £99

NOW IN

NEW FOOTJOY RANGE OF SHIRTS IN STOCK FROM ONLY £39.99

STROMBERG PLAIN TROUSERS £39.99 SALE PRICE £24.99 (2015 RANGE)

All staff P.G.A. qualified. Over 35 years experience. Friendly honest advice External practice area for long game and new short game area next to shop We have thousands of happy repeat customers, we must be doing something right

stock. Call in and see for yourself

Part Exchange welcome - top prices given

Authorised stockists for Callaway, Mizuno TaylorMade, Cobra, Titlest, Bridgestone & more. We have heads & shaft options for a

Next day delivery available for mail orders

complete custom fit

for or shop or tuition

Gift vouchers available

MANY MORE BARGAINS IN STORE

How to find our superstore Leave A1 (m) at junction 63 Chester-le-Street and follow B693 to Stanley, turn left onto B6532 (Asda roundabout), follow road to to end and turn right, pass Blomfomtein School and follow sign to South Moor Golf Club

Your No 1 Discount Golf Store

Shaun Cowell PGA Golf Professional - Tel: 01207 283 525 South Moor Golf Club Superstore, Craghead, Stanley, DH9 6AG

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Open Mon - Sun 9am - 6pm Early opening at weekends All major credit cards accepted