​Stroke survivors tee off in Blackburn

The Stroke Association in Blackburn has teamed up with England Golf to provide golf courses for stroke survivors in the area.

The Get into golf four-week course began on Wednesday 19 April at Mytton Fold Golf Club, Whalley Road. At the weekly sessions, 13 stroke survivors had access to an hour’s coaching session on the driving range and putting green.

Ellis Metcalfe, 79 from Lammack had a stroke in June 2016, which affected his balance and the movement in his right leg.

Ellis said: “I played golf for around ten years before my stroke and this was the first time I’d got back to it since. I found it a challenge but it was great to get my hand on a putter again. I’m also going to go along to the golf driving range at Rishton with the Stroke Association team, to continue to develop my skills. Stroke affects people in different ways, but this opened my eyes to the fact people can still enjoy playing, just using different techniques.”

Maureen Duffy, Information, Advice and Support Coordinator at the Stroke Association, said: “More people than ever before are surviving a stroke. But many stroke survivors tell us that after all the effort to save their lives they then feel isolated when they return home.

“The golf course provides an opportunity for stroke survivors to meet others who are also experiencing a life after stroke, benefit from exercise, build their confidence and enjoy learning new skills.

“We’re extremely grateful to the team at Mytton Fold Golf Club who have been incredibly supportive throughout the course. We would encourage stroke survivors across Blackburn and Darwen to get in touch should they like to get involved in any future sessions.”

Jamie Blair, England Golf Disability Manager, said: “It is great to see the partnership with the Stroke Association develop across the North West and to see the positive approach Mytton Fold is taking to engaging with their local community

“Golf can offer a huge range of health and social benefits to stroke survivors. I hope that by working with the golf club and local stroke groups we can continue a strong partnership to bring the benefits of the game to more people in Blackburn.”

For further information about the Get into golf programme, please contact Maureen Duffy, Information, Advice and Support Coordinator at the Stroke Association in Blackburn on 01254 367432 or email Maureen.Duffy@stroke.org.uk

Get into golf is a national campaign to inspire new golfers run by England Golf through its county network. Opportunities include beginner and follow-on courses with PGA professionals. They are a fun and sociable way to start golf – and a great way to make new friends. Lessons can cost as little as £25 for a five-week course.

To find your nearest centre visit getintogolf.org and look at the activity map or call 0800 118 2766. Follow Get into golf on Twitter twitter.com/getintogolf or on Facebook at facebook.com/Getintogolf