Golf course ready for kick-off!

Last year was the first for the Footgolf course at Haigh Hall and leisure bosses are hoping for a repeat of what has proved to be an overwhelming success.

Thousands teed off at the nine-hole course and fell in love with the game which entails kicking a football through a golf course instead of swinging a club.

And if you are reading this thinking “putting” with a football into an enlarged hole is easier than the golfing equivalent, you are very much mistaken!

Such was its popularity last year, Premier League star Darren Fletcher - now playing for West Bromwich Albion and formerly of Manchester United - visited Haigh Hall to give it a go with his family.

Ian Lee, golf manager at Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles, said: “FootGolf has re-opened here at Haigh for the summer.

“It was launched just last August and far exceeded our expectations.

“The fact that anyone can enjoy it and you don’t need any equipment, gives the sport such a wide appeal.

“It was brilliant to see so many people enjoy this new activity.

“From the very young to grandparents, mums and dads with their children, kids birthday parties, local football teams through to premier league footballers they’ve travelled from far and wide including Scotland and Cornwall.

“There are few better ways than to spend an hour, in a beautiful setting, having fun and exercise in the fresh air.

“If you haven’t tried it you must come and give it ago, you will not be disappointed.”

Last season the Wigan Evening Post editorial team played a round with varying degrees of success. Digital editor Jon Peake came out on top and while there were a few wayward shots early-on, everyone soon got into the swing and the round became ultra competitive.

Haigh Hall golf complex Head of business development Chris Derbyshire holds the course record of six under par, a benchmark that will take some beating.

Playing slots can be booked at weekends between 11am and 5pm and on Bank Holiday Mondays from 11am to 4pm. There is an option to play nine or 18 holes.

To book visit www.ukfootgolf.com/haigh-hall-wigan/4590121739 or contact 01942 828280.