CLUBS across Cheshire are backing a new year drive to encourage more people to take up golf.

Free taster sessions and discounted coaching are on offer as part of the national Get Into Golf campaign.

Upton-by-Chester Golf Club, based in Upton Lane, is hosting four schemes.

Golf for All sessions will be held on February 4 (10am and 11am) and February 16 (11am) with Golf for Women on February 15 (1pm). For further details contact PGA professional Steve Dewhurst on 01244 381183 or email stephendewhurst@live.co.uk.

The Oaks Golf Club, which can be found in Townfield Lane, Mollington, is running Golf For All on January 14 (2pm), January 19 (11am), February 11 (2pm) and February 16 (11am). For further information contact PGA professional Alan Beattie on 01224 852805 or email alan.beattie@theoaksmollington.co.uk

Eaton GC, in Guy Lane, Waverton, will be encouraging ladies to take up golf on January 19 (11am) and January 27 (9am), with Golf for All on January 16 (1.30pm) and February 8 (11am). Contact PGA professional Bill Tye on 01244 335826 or e-mail williamtye@btinternet.com for more information.

High Legh Park GC, in Warrington Road, is running both sets of courses with Golf for Women on February 27 (10am) and February 28 (2pm) with Golf For All on March 2 (9am) and March 3 (10am). Contact PGA professional Natalie Adams for further details on 07775 614963 or by e-mailing natalieadamsgolf@hotmail.com

Craig Thomas, county development officer for the Cheshire County Golf Partnership, says: “The winter months may not be usually associated with golf, but these schemes offer the ideal opportunity to get started.

“There is no better time than the new year to take up a fresh challenge, and with the help of expert advice from Cheshire’s PGA professionals this is an ideal opportunity to get out of the house and enjoy a hobby that will stand you in good stead.”