TWO junior golfers from Bromsgrove are to become some of the first recipients to benefit from a new initiative for home grown talent.

James Wheeler and Matthew Williams have both been awarded a one-year scholarship, which is jointly funded by the Golf Centre and the resident Bromsgrove Golf Club.

The new junior scholarship has been introduced at the Stratford Road centre in a bid to help cultivate the skills of promising young golfers.

James, aged 13, from Avoncroft Road, in Stoke Heath and 12-year-old Matthew, from Marlbrook Lane, Marlbrook, were chosen from hundreds of youngsters who attended golf lessons at the centre. They will receive club membership and free golf tuition for a year.

Golf Centre director Phil Morris said the scholarships were designed to act as an incentive for the juniors to help their play.

He added: "The scholarships are awarded to juniors with genuine potential who can hopefully progress to new standards of excellence."

James is currently aiming for the golf foundation merit award scheme's gold certificate while Matthew is near to the completion of his silver certificate.