MORE than a score of regional golf clubs have pledged support for a sporting initiative to provide players with access to competitive golf at reduced fees.

Wirral golf professional David Thompson who runs the scheme, said: "It's a unique opportunity for all golfers to gain access to some affordable, competitive, Wirral-based golf through the 2014 season."

His aim is to give all local golfers – both private club members and municipal golfers – the chance to play competitive golf weekly without having to pay full fees.

This year’s Order of Merit competition will take in 27 course in the North West, including six from Wirral – Heswall, Prenton, Bromborough, Eastham Lodge, Leasowe and Wirral Ladies.

As part of the season’s competition golfers will take part in the Scotty Dog Wirral Challenge, sponsored by a local golf-based firm.

The grand final for the Open Golf Club will be held at Wallasey GC with the top 25 players from the order of merit qualifying to play.

David said: "Last year's order of merit was the very first and it attracted 128 players. This year's look set to be bigger."