THE PEOPLE behind Rossendale’s new driving range hope to get school children involved in the game.

Scott and Amanda Grundy, directors of Golf Rossendale Driving Range and Academy, are planning to work with local schools to make golf lessons during school hours part of the curriculum.

The range is set to open later this month and could be just in time to capitalise on golf’s feelgood factor after Europe won the Ryder Cup this week.

Mrs Grundy said she wanted children to have the chance to experience golf for the first time.

“Golf has always been seen as an elitist sport,” she said. “We want to bring it to children who’ve never had the chance before.

“We want to work very closely with schools and the Leisure Trust in a bid to offer affordable golf coaching to as many children as possible across the Valley.

“There could be the next Tiger Woods out there.”

The 4.6 hectare academy at Marl Pits will feature 24 bays as well as a short-game area and putting green, with professionals on hand to offer lessons.

A Junior Academy is also being planned for the centre.

“We are having talks with Rossendale Golf Club and will be contacting other local clubs so that youngsters can follow up with a round of golf,” said Mrs Grundy.

After school and weekend courses will also be run from the Junior Academy for children aged over six to help them develop their game.

Mrs Grundy said: “We want to make the sport affordable for everyone. People can come and try golf with us without the need to buy any special equipment.”