AN ACADEMY to improve the standard of golf in Essex has opened at Boyce Hill.

The Benfleet-based club in Vicarage Hill, launched the adult scheme this week with Southend United chairman Ron Martin and captain Adam Barrett both attending the opening.

Players of all abilities are eligible for lessons charged at £10-an-hour instead of the usual £35.

Boyce Hill professional Graham Burroughs said the academy would be available to both members and non-members and especially those wishing to take up the game.

He added: "I've been in the business 45 years and thought this would be a good way of helping local golf.

"For many people £17.50 for a half-hour golf lesson is too much. An academy is a fun and affordable way of learning.

"As players get better they enjoy the game more. If we can help improve golfing proficiency in Essex just a little we will have achieved a great deal."

The Boyce Hill committee is backing Burroughs by investing £10,000 in a covered practice area, improved bunker and chipping green.

The adult section will be run by PGA qualified head coach, Michael Goodwin, with lessons given in groups of four in swing techniques, chipping, putting and rules.

He took over the youth and ladies academies in September from outgoing coach Ian Dudman.

Goodwin said he was determined to help reduce handicaps.

He estimates the typical golfer could improve substantially after a course of lessons.

"The average golfer has a handicap greater than 24," he said. "We can go some way to improving on that."

Anyone signing up for lessons before May 30 will receive a £10 voucher to spend in the Boyce Hill Professional Shop.

For more information or to book a lesson ring Michael Goodwin on 07989 878290.

l BUSY Southend golfers have played their bogey competition plus April and midweek medals with club captain Mick Edmunds victorious in two of them.

First off was the Foreman Cup bogey which was played in very cold conditions.

Edmunds was first with a score of plus three from Paul Cotgrove (plus two) with vice captain Dave Buckley third on minus one.

Next was the midweek medal with Edmunds winning again (71-3-68) from Bill Highstead (89-19-70).

Then came the April medal with Paul Downey winning with 83-13=70 from Mick Edmunds 73-3=70 on countback with Brian Lauezzari 88-12-76 in third place.