AN exciting new golf league involving some of the county's top clubs is starting up in Kent.

The Shepherd Neame Invicta Golf League is organised in a Ryder Cup-style format, with teams of 10 players from each club playing in pairs. Fixtures will take place between April and October.

Kevin Still, general manager of West Malling Golf Club, is one of the league's founders. He said: "Existing leagues are organised along inflexible lines. We wanted a more informal approach to build friendship and camaraderie between clubs and golfers."

He praised Shepherd Neame for sponsoring the league. "The brewery's sponsorhip has been invaluable in bringing the league to fruition," he said.

Other clubs in the league are Canterbury, Chart Hills, Hever Castle, North Foreland, Redlibbets, The Nevill, and The London Club.

Shepherd Neame chief executive Jonathan Neame said: "We are delighted to be involved in a competition which promises to bring the county’s golfers together in a spirit of friendly rivalry. This sponsorship underlines Shepherd Neame’s commitment to promoting sport in the county."