A PGA coach who has introduced countless youngsters to golf through his links with Worcestershire and Black Country schools has been recognised with a top national award from England Golf.

Gareth Snelgrove, from Hagley Golf Club, was presented with the Talent Pathway Award at a gala dinner at England Golf’s annual conference at the Hinckley Island Hotel, in Leicestershire.

Gareth, who received his award from England Golf performance director Nigel Edwards, has created a local pathway offering school pupils a taste of the game – with the emphasis on fun - and follow up opportunities for coaching in the club’s junior academy and golf club membership.

“If we keep persevering with this system it will help to grow the game in Worcestershire and, hopefully, across the country as a whole,” he said.

His approach supports the aims of the England Golf strategic plan, ‘Raising Our Game’ which calls on all who care about the sport to work together to create a brighter future for the game, including more members, more players and stronger clubs.

Snelgrove said: “One of the roles of the PGA coach is to go into the local community and try and develop relationships, in my case working with local school using resources provided by the Golf Foundation.”

He has created strong links with many schools, including those for children with special needs and disabilities, and with local councils. As a result, pupils in Dudley-based schools can select golf as a regular activity during P.E.

Snelgrove has been recognised previously with a national award from the Golf Foundation and three Coach of the Year awards from local schools. But, he said he’s not exceptional.

“It’s lovely to win this award and it will help us to encourage more people to come and see us, but I know a lot of other pros who are doing really good work,” he said.

Hagley Golf Club also offers opportunities for adults, and is involved with England Golf’s Get into golf initiative – and the coach is particularly keen to encourage the parents of his young pupils.

“We are very fortunate with our range because we can give adult learners the chance to try the game in a relaxed environment where they can make progress to the golf course,” he added.