TAVISTOCK Golf Club has been able to iron out a few problems on its professionals' practice tee, courtesy of a grant from Devon County Council.

The club has received £1,000 towards the £2,800 cost of astro turfing the practice tee, thanks to a grant secured through county councillor for Tavistock Debo Sellis as part of the Devon County Council Community Budget.

Norma Thewlis, a spokeswoman for the club, said: 'All year round the tee is in constant use for teaching and, especially in the winter, the tee becomes extremely muddy and slippery.

'Having lessons can be rather a messy business especially for the children attending their regular coaching sessions! 

'After several attempts to returf the area it was apparent that astro turf was the only sensible answer.'

Cllr Sellis told the Times: 'Tavistock Golf Club does a terrific amount of fundraising throughout the community and beyond.

'This will be of great use to people young and old and helpfully help to encourage more youngsters to get into sport.'

Club treasurer Gail Reed expressed her gratitude to Devon County Council and Councillor Sellis in particular for supporting the club. 

Over the years many thousands of pounds have been raised for local charities.

To date more than £10,000 has already been raised for this year's charities — Parkinson (UK) and the Tavistock support branch of Muscular Dystrophy.