Bishop's Stortford Golf Club starts off the New Year on a high note with the award by the English Golf Union of its coveted Clubmark/GolfMark certificate to the club in recognition of the high standards of the facilities and services that the club provides.

GolfMark is the EGU and the EWGA national scheme for the promotion of quality in the provision of golf facilities to local communities. Bishop's Stortford GC achieved its GolfMark accreditation with distinction - one of only two clubs in the county to be so honoured -after a rigorous assessment by EGU officials carried out over several months last year.

This process covers almost every aspect of the operations and management of the club with a strong emphasis on encouragement of and facilities for juniors and beginners.

Acknowledging the award Club Chairman Kay Vartan said that the club was delighted and honoured by this accolade and made particular mention of club member Marcia Oram who was largely responsible for initiating the process and organising the team of club members and club management needed to respond to the EGU's exacting requirements.

"It is thanks to Marcia's tireless efforts over the past months that the club has not only achieved this recognition but done so to the highest standards. The benefits to the community are immediate and ongoing. "

The GolfMark award opens the door to participation in a number of sports promotional schemes. One important spin-off is access to funding for the provision of opportunities for free and subsidised coaching to local residents and schoolchildren wishing to get involved in the game. The first of these starts this month.