The Kent County Golf Partnership has been awarded £30,000 over the next three years by England Golf to support the development of golf within the county.

The Kent County Golf Partnership was formed in October 2006 and is an alliance between the Kent County Union of Golf Clubs, Kent Ladies County Golf Association and the Professional Golfers Association.

Its main aim is to promote the game of golf, introduce more people to the sport, encourage regular participation in competitive golf and improve the standard of play at all levels.

Over the next year the partnership will receive the first £10,000 towards the implementation of its countywide development plan.

Its ambitious objectives include increasing the overall number of people playing golf in Kent by three per cent, including increasing women and girls participation by one per cent.

Richard Flint, EGU/EWGA golf development manager, said: "By working in partnership, the union, association and PGA in Kent will be able to drive golf forward and progress to new levels.

"The partnership has worked hard to put together a detailed action plan, which will guide them over the next three years."

Other aims for the partnership include offering training, support and recognition to volunteers and professional teaching coaches within the game to ensure that the County has a co-ordinated network of support.

Jim Pocknell, chairman of the partnership, said: "The Kent Golf Partnership is looking forward to working together and with our whole network of volunteers to help reduce existing barriers to playing golf and joining a golf club".