A GOLF club has officially opened a £50,000, all-weather driving range.

Billingham Golf Club was granted the money to create the six-bay, covered range by lottery-funded body, Sport England.

Now it's hoped that members of the public will take up the sport at the club.

The first shots on the range were taken by the club's oldest member, an 87-year-old man, and youngest, an eight-year-old boy.

There is a dedicated teaching bay and the club professional, Mike Ure, hopes to be able to teach beginners at the new facility as part of the club's Getting Into Golf campaign.

Howard Gill, club treasurer, explained the new driving range was fully accessible for disabled people.

He said: "We're hoping that this gives us an opportunity to not only develop the club but really encourage people to take up the sport."

Billingham Golf Club can be contacted at 01642 533816.