After a long career in sales, I decided that I wanted to do a job that would give me more satisfaction. After looking at various options, I decided that, as I was a fairly good golfer playing off a handicap of 3 or better for over 25 years, that I might put something back into the game by becoming a professional golf coach. I had done a little coaching as an amateur so it was familiar to me. The World Golf Teachers Federation of Great Britian and Ireland appealed to me with their no-nonsense approach to golf coaching, so I successfully completed the WGTF Level III diploma course at Beadlow Manor golf complex, Bedfordshire, in May 2007.

I founded Golfing 4 All in June 2007. I started with adult lessons using the local golf course practice area, and from there it grew with repeat business and referrals from clients. I really wanted to expand the coaching I offered, so I came upon the idea of taking golf into local primary schools. Unfortunately, the local council was not interested in this venture, so I decided to do it myself by hiring school halls, buying equipment, advertising, etc.

Starting in my home town of Hawick in the Scottish borders, leaflet drops to all the primary schools quickly filled 32 places. My aim was to keep the coaching personal and safe, so class numbers were limited. I provided four hours per night, running a five-week block of lessons for children of primary school age no matter what their ability or experience. These classes have now been running for four years, having the same kids come back session after session. I have taken my classes into two other towns, resulting in more than 500 children enjoying golf and learning a life skill. The kids can also join the Golfing 4 All golf academy and have golf instruction on the range in the Easter and summer holidays.

Lessons soon outgrew the local golf course practice area, so 2008 saw the opening of my own private teaching facility with a covered teaching bay, sand bunker, large putting green with chipping and pitching areas, and full range distance. This allowed me to offer clients structured individual golf lessons tailored to their needs and wants. Thank you WGTF!