Hill Valley Little Gem Golf Day

24th October 2008

Junior golfers on the Little Gem course are
(from left to right) Sam Cutler, Ollie Crolla
Parkhouse and Phil Weston

A free golf day at a new Shropshire mini course for beginners and experienced players was hailed a resounding success.

The nine-hole Little Gem attracted young and old to the par-three course at the Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel, Golf and Spa in Tarporley Road, Whitchurch.

Professional Clive Burgess was on hand to pass on tips to potential golfers as everyone had a free go on the Little Gem course.

Prizes were handed out to players who beat the general manager's score and complimentary afternoon tea was served.

Kate Halewood, general manager of the Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel, Golf and Spa, said 100 players had been on the Little Gem, Emerald and Sapphire courses throughout the day.

"It is a fantastic course which helps you build your confidence and improve your technique, regardless of your level of experience," she said.

"I may never be the greatest golfer but the Little Gem provides an exhilarating experience that can be completed in under one hour depending on your ability.

"It is a great way to have some family fun in such a beautiful setting."

Clive said the all-year round mini course was proving extremely popular with the Whitchurch community for novice and experienced players.

"It is only a short course but it is perfect for juniors who have never played the game before and teenagers and adults who are good players that want to sharpen their putting from 40 or 50 yards," he said.

"The Little Gem is proving really popular with youngsters. We recently had 50 members of the Whitchurch Beavers come along to have a free go as part of their badges. Some of them have since been brought back by their parents which is really positive.

"The course is next to the first tee on the Emerald Course so if players are waiting to start they can warm up by practicing their putting on the Little Gem.

"We are confident this will be a great addition to the fantastic golf facilities we already have at the venue and the fact that Little Gem is open throughout the year means there is always the option of playing a few holes if you don't have time for 18 holes."

Membership is £50 per adult/child for 12 months and in celebration of the event, the first 20 members to sign up will secure membership for only £50 inclusive for up to a family of four. To join or for more details contact the Golf Pro Shop on 01948 663032.