RYDER CUP stars of the future are now teeing off at Torwodlee after surge in junior numbers.

A record number of youngsters, from as early as three years old, are now in the swing at the Galashiels club following the introduction of the JJRB Building Construction clubgolf programme.

The scheme is used to introduce children to the sport with weekly shortened blue tee competitions.

A total of ten volunteer coaches, who are all fully qualified and PVG checked, have been on hand to deliver the sessions.

On top of the clubgolf programme, Torwoodlee professional Frank Scott has been helping the older junior members during a summer coaching programme.

The six-week programme featured video analysis and has led to several, most notably Lyle Gillie, playing in men's competitions.

A spokesman for Torwoodlee told us: "The summer programme was all made possible by donations from Tesco Bags for help fund.

"We are quickly becoming one of the most family friendly clubs in the Borders and we are delighted with the uptake of junior players this season."

Torwoodlee also hosted a Stephen Gallacher Foundation event in August with young players from all over the East region taking part.

And nine juniors from the host Galashiels club qualified to play in the finals day at Kingsfield and Dunbar, with Gregor Brydon winning his Flag competition age group.

Many of the same young players also enjoyed a visit to the Scottish Open at Gullane and took part in a short game clinic.

Junior member Kyle Anderson said: "It was great to watch the professionals and how far they could hit the ball.

"We were also allowed to get autographs and some used gloves and balls from the pros after they finished."

Throughout the season an NFU Mutual Junior Order of Merit event has been running with Junior members competing for points each week.

This was won by runaway leader Harry Chisholm who led from start to finish.

The Trophy Guy Junior Championship was much closer with Kyle Anderson narrowly defeating Lyle Gillie in the final of the scratch competition.

Caitlin Green beat Patrick Beatt in the final of the handicap event.

The introduction of nine hole family competitions, sponsored by Chisholm Roofing LTD, also encouraged more youngsters to tee off.

And improvements to the practice areas, with the help of funding from the Rowan Boland Trust and Scottish Golf, are also helping the younger players perfect their game.

Anyone interested in joining Torwoodlee Golf Club should visit the website www.torwoodleegolfclub.com