THE next generation of Tiger Woods or Nick Faldos could soon be striding down the fairway thanks to a scheme bringing golfers of all ages together.

Senior members of Crook Golf Club have been taking year seven and eight youngsters from Parkside School, Willington, under their wing to teach them the basics of the sport.

The project is part of an programme run by Age Concern and part funded by One NorthEast, aimed at bridging the age gap across County Durham.

Older volunteers act as sport coaches and pass on their knowledge and expertise to youngsters in local schools.

At the weekend, youngsters who completed a ten-week golfing course at Crook, organised by Age Concern, received certificates to mark their participation.

One of those taking part, Joseph Newton, 12, was given a prize of free junior membership at the club for being the most improved player over the ten weeks.

Two of the coaches, Frank Gowland and Dave Atess, were recently shortlisted in The Northern Echo's Local Heroes sport awards.

Marianne Patterson, an intergenerational programme worker with Age Concern, said: "It is about bridging barriers and promoting positive images of both young and old."