WITH preparations well underway for the Open Golf's return to Wirral, a new project aims to break down perceptions that the sport is elitist by encouraging more people to pick up a club.

The project is being co-ordinated by Wirral Council’s sports development team with England Golf in the run-up to the Open Championship, which will take place at the Royal Liverpool course from July 17 to July 20.

Under the banner "Road To The Open'"a host of activities are being organised to promote golf to Wirral's communities.

Neil Price, Wirral's community golf development officer is co-ordinating the scheme.

He said it aims to attract a wide number of people to try the game for the first time, with the help of golfing organisations and local clubs.

Councillor Chris Meaden, Wirral's cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: "Wirral has many golf courses, including a number of excellent municipals, but is still seen by some as elitist.

"This project aims to get people to try golf, which may be a new activity for them, and break down barriers that prevent people from taking part in the sport."