BOLTON'S newest golf course will compete with the best for top class facilities when it is completed in the next 12 months.

That is the proud boast of Hart Common Golf Club - Westhoughton Golf Centre, which is currently building a nine hole par 3 course to go with its 18 hole course and driving range which are already open.

Owner Peter Roberts, who used to farm the land before deciding on the conversion, says his club offers a good quality course that is being built on a sound financial footing.

"We are well under way with the par 3 course and will build the clubhouse last. That is opposite to most clubs but it was the best way forward financially."

Roberts believes that providing the best facilities is the key to success and that his pay-and-play course will quickly establish itself when it is completely finished.

He has employed Gareth Benson as club professional and the 26 year old is quickly making his mark on the teaching front.

The former amatuer at North Manchester, who has been in the top 10 order of merit in Lancashire for the past five years, staged a major coup by being named as a contributing member to 'Today's Golfer' magazine.

He said: "I was delighted to be in the supplements for the biggest instruction magazine in Europe. I went to Portugal to do the photos and hope to be going to the States to do another series. I am now a regular contributor to the magazine."

Benson is heavily involved in teaching and since he took over last October has built up a thriving school.

He has video equipment, a private section on the driving range, and has two special needs schools and four high schools attending on a weekly basis.and junior group coaching every Saturday.

"The idea is to build a teaching school here as the place develops that will make golf available to all," said Benson who comes from Bury.

"Once we get everything tidied up it will be one of the best developments in the North West. Another 12 months will make a big difference to the place."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.