REVITALISED Sapey Golf Club have appointed a new professional in Martin Payne.

The venue was saved by millionaire entrepreneur Alfie Best last July and are approaching their first birthday under the new ownership.

Sapey have gained more than 100 new members and Payne boasts over 25 years of experience in the sport and local area.

He looks to coach all ages and abilities with a particular interest in growing the game at junior level.

Alongside individual tuition he will offer group classes for members and get into golf taster sessions for anyone. 

Payne, who hails from Bridgnorth, said: “I am very excited to start coaching in the new indoor swing studio as I know this technology is the future of golf tuition and is already utilised by the world's top players and their coaches."

Sapey host their first Midland PGA pro-am on Sunday while members' club competitions are flourishing in all categories.

Payne continued: "I have had many playing highlights including becoming the Shropshire and Herefordshire professional order of merit champion in 2006 and the Worcestershire professional champion in 2010.

"I have also had the pleasure of coaching all abilities from junior to senior level and have watched them grow, develop in confidence and gain skill.

"I have known and competed at Sapey since the club was first built in 1990. I have watched the club grow into the wonderful venue it is today.

"These are very exciting times for Sapey with the current investment and future plans including the new GC2 simulator studio.

"It is a great honour to be a part of this journey as the new PGA teaching professional."