GOLF

A NEW era has begun for Abridge Golf and Country Club and Sawbridgeworth's Steve Tyson.

The 27-year-old was named as head professional at the weekend and immediately switched his sights onto ambitious new targets for the club.

He started out at the club as a 14-year-old, working his way through as an amateur, shop assistant and head teaching professional.

And now he is looking to improve the standard of the shop for all members and non-members.

"This is a really big step for me and an awesome opportunity," he said.

"I've worked my way up the ladder since I was 14.

"It's not often that a person stays with one club for so long, but I love it. All my family and friends have been overjoyed with it, which is fantastic.

"Now there are things I would like to get in place at the club.

"Taking it over at a young age, I've got big ambitions and the determination to get the club up to the best possible standards."

Some of Tyson's ideas include the formation of a large junior teaching academy, developing the ladies and senior coaching facilities and providing a shop with up to date golfing brands and equipment.

He will also be involved in golfing operations, memberships and societies.

And his appointment comes in good time - Abridge is due to become a host course for Open qualifiers between 2009-2012, the most prestigious event that a local golf course can hold.

However, he knows that the hard work has just begun.

"It's the pinnacle for a golf course and there's still a lot of hard work to do," he said.

"It is also important I continue my own professional development to keep myself updated with modern technology and knowledge."