Press release -
Stroke survivors tee off in North Somerset
The Stroke Association in North Somerset has teamed up with England Golf to provide golf courses for stroke survivors in the area.
The Get into Golf four-week course will begin on Tuesday 5 September at Tickenham Golf Club. At the weekly sessions, six stroke survivors have access to an hour’s coaching session on the driving rangeand putting green.
David Jones, 74, from Backwell had a stroke in 2001, and another one in 2014. The strokes affected the movement in David’s right arm and leg, and has also left him with a communication difficulty called aphasia.
David said: “I played golf for around 20 years before my stroke and loved it. Since having the strokes, I never imagined I’d be able to play again.
“To get the chance to get back into golf has really motivated me, and uplifted my spirits. It will feel great to get my hand on a golf club again, although I know that I’ll find it a challenge on the day.
“With the support from the Stroke Association team and Tickenham Golf Club, I’m looking forward to developing my skills further. Stroke affects people in different ways, but this has opened my eyes to the fact that people can still enjoy playing, just using different techniques.”
Verity Aldous, Stroke Recovery Coordinator at the Stroke Association, said: “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 Tickenham Golf Club who have been incredibly supportive with this fantastic opportunity for local stroke survivors. We would encourage stroke survivors across North Somerset to get in touch should they like to get involved in any future sessions.”
Sarah Sutcliffe, Head PGA Professional from Tickenham Golf Club said: “It is great to see the partnership with the Stroke Association develop across North Somerset and for us to engage with the local community
“Golf can offer a huge range of health and social benefits to stroke survivors. I hope that we can continue a strong partnership to bring the benefits of the game to more people in North Somerset.”
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 £20 for a four-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