Press release -
Stroke survivors tee off in Fleetwood
A Stroke Association voluntary group in Fylde and Wyre has teamed up with England Golf to provide golf sessions for stroke survivors in the area.
Fylde & Wyre Stroke Group is led by volunteers to provide stroke survivors with long- term support throughout their recovery. The group launched the first of six weeks of sessions at Fleetwood Golf Club, on Tuesday 04 April, led by PGA Professional Dan Skelcher. At the twice-weekly sessions, eight stroke survivors will be able to make the most of an hour’s coaching session on the driving range.
John Lanes, Volunteer at Fylde & Wyre Stroke Group, organised the course. He said: “The golf course provides an opportunity for stroke survivors to socialise with others who are also experiencing a life after stroke, benefit from exercise, build their confidence and enjoy learning new skills. We’re thrilled the course has been really popular with local stroke survivors so far.”
England Golf’s Get into golf programme has been specifically tailored for stroke survivors, and each session includes an hour’s coaching, with all equipment provided.
Jim Woods is the Chairman of Fylde & Wyre Stroke Group, and a stroke survivor himself. A stroke in May 2015 left Jim with right sided weakness and affected him emotionally.
Jim said: “I used to play golf years ago, and I found the session really helped my co-ordination. It was marvellous! I’m also so proud of our other members who took part; some don’t often leave the house, but this has really helped to motivate people.”
Adam McAlister, Club Support Officer for England Golf in Lancashire, said: "It’s great to see Fleetwood Golf Club opening their doors to the local community by working with the Stroke Association to deliver a Get into golf beginner course, our national initiative designed to get people playing the game. Golf’s winning combination of exercise, skill and social interaction make it the perfect tonic for good health and happiness. We as a national governing body are proud to be a part such a wonderful project that shows that golf is clearly a sport for all."
For further information about the support available from the Stroke Association in Fylde and Wyre, including Fylde & Wyre Stroke Group, please contact the Stroke Helpline on 0303 3033 100.
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