FIFTEEN single-figure youngsters are among a rush of 39 early entries for the 54-hole North of England Under-14 Open at South Moor on August 10-12.

South Moor, a Durham County Championship venue, is a community conscious former miners only National Coal Board club. Their course was designed by the man who created Augusta National, Dr Alister MacKenzie.

Committee man Guy Carr said: “This time last year we had entries from around 15 boys and girls, which indicates the rising popularity of the tournament.”

The event is in its third year. In 2015, it attracted players from Hong Kong, South Africa and Spain among a capacity 90-strong field. There is a separate section for Under-12s plus handicap competitions for the whole field. Players as young as nine compete.

* To enter, visit www.northofenglandu14golf.co.uk

CHRISTOPHER Wayne-Wills is looking forward to writing a new chapter in Slaley Hall’s growing success story after being named as new general manager at the resort.

Wayne-Wills will bring 21 years’ experience in the hospitality industry to his new role at the Northumberland venue, which was named best golf resort in the north of England at the 2016 Today’s Golfer Travel Awards and is part of QHotels, the UK’s largest golf resort operator.

The hotel has two 18-hole championship courses and a team of seven PGA-qualified professionals led by director of golf Jonny Mould.

Wayne-Wills said: “After 21 years in the hospitality industry, it’s rare to come across a career opportunity as exciting as QHotels, which truly understands its customers and continues to respond to their behaviour and needs. I’ll be focusing on promoting Slaley Hall as a destination for golf breaks, to really make the most of its award-winning offer for golfers.”

JUNIOR golf at Seaton Carew is heading in a different direction after pairing up with a fitness instructor.

The academy golfers at Seaton Carew, under the watchful eye of club professional Clifford Jackson, will also have a new man helping them along.

Seaton Carew has announced the launch of the Junior Golf Endurance Boot Camp with personal trainer Nathan Renwick.

Juniors of all ages are welcome to take part and must meet outside the professional’s shop at 4pm on April 29 for a one-hour session.

The cost is £3 per person and will run for six weeks. Golfers are expected to wear suitable sport clothing and trainers.