Both the English Golf Union (EGU) and English Ladies Golf Association (ELGA) are committed to developing Clubmark. Working through its regional development officers conversion from Golfmark to Clubmark is well underway and an increase in conversion rates is expected in the New Year.

Following the distribution of the EGU/ELGA Golf Club Membership Questionnaire earlier this year, a Results Booklet has now been produced detailing the main findings.

As this is the fourth piece of EGU/ELGA research that has been conducted since 2000, comparisons from previous surveys have now been included and although they only show small percentage changes, the majority represent positive future trends. A gradual progression has occurred within several areas of the game including acceptance into membership, entrance fees and many junior specific areas such as handicapping and coaching. However, one of the most positive statistics to come out of this year's research is that the percentage of junior membership to total membership has increased from 8% to 9% (approximate increase from 69,000 to 78,000 juniors).

This year, for the first time, the results will be included as part of the as part of the England Golf research strategy. England Golf is a partnership between the EGU, ELGA and the Professional Golfers' Association (PGA), with support from the Golf Foundation and Sport England.

The EGU/ELGA are delighted with this increase and Richard Flint, Golf Development Manager comments "Junior golf has always been an essential part of development work and it is encouraging to see this figure increase, following several years of hard work. However, whilst it is important to continue focusing on junior golf, opportunities for adults must not be overlooked, especially women's golf. By continuing to work closely with counties, golf clubs and other bodies, we are sure that progress can be made in all areas of the game."