School tees off with £6k award

Budding young golfers at an West Midland school are now able to tee off on their very own golf course. Children at Cooper and Jordan Primary in Aldridge have created their own nine hole course after being awarded £6,000 from the lottery.

The course is thought to be the largest ever at a primary school in the country.

It was formally opened yesterday by professional player Felicity Johnson, who ranks at 67th in European rankings.

As well as cutting the official ribbon she was able to offer the children some expert coaching and tips on the game.

The course was the brainchild of teacher Dan Sandy, and although youngsters were not big golfers before, they are now.

He said: "We basically decided to maximise our space and have a golf course. It has nine holes and is a pitch and putt and is wonderful.

"The children use it every lunchtime and we're hoping other schools can come and play tournaments against us.

David Wright, who helps out with PE at the school, said the youngsters were over the moon. He said: "I help with PE at the school two days a week and the children are just loving it. It's a brilliant facility for them to have and they certainly are making the most of it."

Children from every year have been using the course for PE lessons and to increase their activity levels.

The pupils will progress from a type of ball billed as "almost" golf balls to real ones when they can demonstrate more expertise.

The school, based in The Green, won an Active Mark from the Government last year because of its work in promoting sport at the school. They hope that their new found golfing facility will promote their interest in sport even further.

Mr Wright said the course at Cooper and Jordan was about half the size of a normal adult nine hole golf course.