SPONSORSHIP is being sought as part of the big redevelopment of a Darlington golf course.

Darlington Borough Council is inviting local businesses to become involved in the sponsorship of the Stressholme municipal golf course

The course is undergoing a total redevelopment, which is due to be completed by the end of the month.

Businesses or individuals are being encouraged to sponsor one of the driving range bays or one of the golf tees.

The cost of sponsoring a tee is £575, excluding VAT, and this includes a tee marker incorporating relevant information relating to the hole, a plaque displaying the sponsor's logo and 20 complimentary rounds of golf.

The cost of a driving range bay is £425, and this includes a banner with the sponsor's logo on it and 15 complimentary rounds of golf.

The renovation work, which will start shortly, includes refurbishing the club house and bar.

The open tunnel area leading to the practice green is being turned into an enclosed foyer for players' extra comfort, and there also will be a new entrance to the club shop.

Changes to the course are being kept to a minimum, because it is already popular with golfers.

But the council is improving the bunkers and doing a lot of horticultural work to make the course more attractive.

Once the refurbishment is complete, Darlington council hopes Stressholme will be transformed into a traditional country pub/clubhouse, offering new experiences and attracting golfers and non-golfers alike.

Anyone interested in sponsoring a tee or driving range bay can contact Darlington council's sponsorship manager, Michelle Parkes, on (01325) 388425.