Stoke Albany Golf Club, Leicester

Stoke Albany opened in 1994 and although the postal address is 'Market Harborough, Leicestershire', the club is affiliated to Northamptonshire Golf Union.

The clubhouse is sympathetically designed to blend in with the countryside, using reclaimed timbers and specially made bricks to give it a rustic feel, while the landscape is planted with native British trees. There are also three lakes and two ponds, all man made, dotted around the course.

The golfers of Stoke Albany have quickly established themselves, winning Division Four in 1998 and consolidating their status in Division Three in 1999.

Emphasis has been placed on building up the junior section. captain Paul Bidulf led them to the semi finals of the county Inter-Club League and KO Cup competitions.

This year plans are afoot to extend the length of the course with the introduction of new medal tees on certain holes.

The land drains extremely well allowing play throughout the winter months on normal greens, while the automation of the watering system - introduced in 1999 - creates receptive greens.

Adrian Clifford, the Midland PGA Golfer of the Year, is the club professional.

Clifford successfully fought a battle against cancer, and raised £1200 for research purposes by running a half marathon in his home town of Bristol.

Director of the Big Red Golf Schools, Clifford has built up a reputation for being an outstanding teacher.

He works out of Stoke Albany three days a week and devotes some Sundays to coaching of youngsters, not only from the club but also from the surrounding area.