A FAMILY-run golf course has become the first in South Lakeland to offer lovers of sport a new attraction - Footgolf.

Combining the social aspect of golf with the countries passion for the beautiful game of football, Footgolf is already played in numerous countries around the world, with the first tournaments being played in 2009, and introduced to the UK in 2012.

And now, Casterton Golf Course, near Kirkby Lonsdale, has opened a nine-hole course at their site and hopes it will bring in new customers, as well as breaking down boundaries about golf courses.

"We were looking for ways to bring in new customers and saw this sport on the TV and online," said Ruth Kendal, marketing director at Casterton.

"We made some enquiries and that was that. It's a very inclusive and fun sport so we hope it will bring families and tourist as well as locals that want a fun, new activity.

"We are also hoping it will bring people to the course to see they are not exclusive and everyone is welcome."

The object of the game is simple. To place the ball in the dustbin-sized hole using only your feet in the lowest number of shots possible.

Due to the increase in participation, the national governing body, the UK Footgolf Association (UKFGA), have affiliated many courses across the UK including Casterton Golf Course - meaning competitors from across the country will be battling it out for ranking points in South Lakeland next year.

The course, which sits in 20 acres of stunning scenery, has holes which range from 75 yards to 189 yards and from par three to par five.

"There are no bunkers but there are plenty of slops and other features that are challenging," added Ruth, whose parents Elizabeth and John Makinson own the site while her Peter Makinson is head green keeper.

"It has been open for about two months now and so far has been visited by families, fathers and sons and even stag parties. Everyone said the had a great time and it was good workout for the legs!

"It combines the power and precision needed to kick a ball a long way but also making sure it is on target."

Ruth added she hopes to organise competitions for local football teams as well as putting on junior events in the future.

Visit www.castertongolf.co.uk to find out more.