Six captains unite for charity golf day in support of youth zone

On September 20th, the esteemed captains from six local golf clubs will unite to host a charity golf day at Clitheroe Golf Club. The event aims to raise vital funds for Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone’s innovative Next Level Sport initiative.

This year, the club captains from Clitheroe, Pleasington, Blackburn, Wilpshire, Darwen, and Accrington golf clubs have joined forces to champion the Blackburn & Darwen Next Level Golf initiative. Inspired by a tour of the impressive Youth Zone facility in Blackburn, the local golf clubs have committed to providing young people with the opportunity to experience golf.

The collaborative effort has yielded remarkable results. Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone now has a membership of over 5,000 young people, many of whom are eager to explore the world of golf. 

Ian Battersby, captain of Clitheroe Golf Club, expressed his enthusiasm: “All six captains visited the Youth Zone to see first-hand the incredible work which goes on there and we unanimously agreed to initiate Next Level Golf as a core element under the Next Level Sport umbrella which is a flag bearer for other Youth Zones across the UK.

"In doing so, we are importantly able to provide an element of longevity with each of the clubs committing to replicate similar events in each of the next six years. Giving back to our community and offering opportunities to young people is at the heart of our mission. With the support of all six clubs I am delighted on behalf of Clitheroe Golf Club to be the inaugural hosts this year and we are all committed to making these events a resounding success and giving the young people of our local area a chance to develop their skillsets.’’    

Wayne Wild, chairman of Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone, highlighted the initiative’s impact: “Next Level is dedicated to empowering all young people to reach their full potential, regardless of their background. Our programs are shaped by the interests and needs of the youth. When consulted, golf emerged as one of the top sports they wished to try.

"Unfortunately, certain barriers can prevent participation. At Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone, we are committed to removing these obstacles so that every young person can thrive. We are immensely grateful for the support of the six local golf clubs.”

Gordon Taylor’s investment last year in sports has enabled the Youth Zone to enhance the already exceptional sports and physical activity services offered. Through the funding provided by Gordon Taylor, a sports manager was appointed and has been developing the Next Level Sports Initiative.

The Next Level Sport initiative is a groundbreaking program focused on enhancing the lives of young people through sports and physical activity. By prioritising physical literacy, enjoyment, and engagement, the program aims to positively impact around 5,000 young people annually. It seeks to level the playing field, provide pathways to positive activities, and address health disparities among the community’s most disadvantaged youth.

For more information about the Charity Golf Day or to support Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone, please contact melanie.thomas@blackburnyz.org