Silverdale Golf Club in Lancashire has won a national award recognising its efforts to grow the sport.

The 18 hole-course on the county’s northerly border with Cumbria has achieved the GolfMark award from England Golf.

GolfMark is an official seal of approval for clubs which successfully work to develop the game in four ways: by attracting new members and encouraging existing members to play more; using practical business planning to develop the club; offering coaching and playing opportunities for all golfers; and ensuring safeguarding policies are in place.

Jerry Martin, golf manager, says the club believes it is important to be active in the area – and not just as a golf club.

He said: “We host many non-golf organisations, run a 100 club in the village, and also support local sports days and village events by running target golf stalls. We have run golf as a night school activity while our steward Stephen Edwards is renowned for his bar food and holds Eddie’s Fish and Chip night every Friday which is open to anyone who wants to enjoy fine cooking.

"We want to encourage people onto the course, for them to find golf is fun and that there are flexible ways of playing and paying for the sport that fit into their lifestyle choices. We want to offer something that suits everyone.”

The award was presented by Adam McAlister, one of two county development officers for the Lancashire Golf Development Group, which works to help clubs attract new golfers and retain existing members.

He said: “Silverdale are to be congratulated on their proactive approach to achieving GolfMark and encouraging the next generation of players into the sport.

“The fact that the club puts such a high priority on being part of its local community shows the positive power of golf outside the clubhouse.”