JOHN Watson has built up a reputation as one of the top teachers in the Manchester area.

He began extending his repertoire two years ago by introducing the latest high-tech aids at his base at Styal, endorsed by the club’s star player David Horsey.

And the former Chorlton junior will extend his horizons next year when he takes on two additional roles, as PGA North Region level one tutor and England coach for the West Midlands.

"The first one involves preparing trainee professionals how to teach the game and taking in health and safety, and I attended a three-day course at the Belfry after the festive break." he said.

Jonathan Wright, the PGA’s education manager, added: "We had a fantastic response to our advertisement for new tutors.

"The competition was fierce in the North West and it’s a testament to John’s personal development, continuing education and passion for coaching that he was the successful candidate."

"I’m excited about the England appointment," said the PGA North region vice-chairman and 2008 captain, who has already enjoyed a three-day Performance Camp at Loughborough and a national conference at Woodhall Spa.

"It’s a new position which has received government funding and I will not only be coaching players but going to tournaments and watching their progress.

Busy

"I will also be continuing with my teaching at Styal so it promises to be a busy year as I am also looking to hold a second charity day at Styal in June for Cancer Research."

The popular Seniors Open at Ashton-on-Mersey is ready for applications for this season’s competition on June 7.

To book your slot or for more info contact the club on 0161 976 4390.

The ‘Race to Bramhall’ resumes this week when the second half of the Manchester Alliance winter season reopens at Wychwood Park.

The big prizes on offer include the Order of Merit for professionals and amateurs concluding at Bramhall on Presidents Day on May 5.

Other ‘major’ competitions are the Club Trophy, Alliance match plays and stroke play competitions and the President’s Day.

All players in the 100-plus clubs affiliated to the Manchester Alliance are eligible to enter and details are in all of the clubs on a regular basis.

Winter golf is now in full flow and will continue at all clubs until next March.

To get your club and individual results, achievements and special events in this report – also if your club has a new captain or lady captain just arrived or coming into office – contact Geoff Garnett on 0161 881 7550 or via email at ggggarnett@aol.com