SIX golf clubs in the picturesque Tyne Valley have launched an initiative to offer existing and new members more golf for their money.

Under the name of Tyne Valley Golf Alliance, the six clubs - Allendale, Garesfield, Prudhoe, Ryton, Stocksfield and Tynedale - are working together to find ways of reducing costs, increasing revenue and giving their members the opportunity to play different courses at no added cost.

The overall aim of the Alliance is to promote golf in the Tyne Valley, to attract new members and visitors alike to this historic and scenic area.

Stage one of the two-year programme is to be introduced on June 1st this year. All full members from the six participating clubs will be issued with a Tyne Valley Golf Card, entitling them to play one free round per year at each of the other five partner courses.

David Gilroy, spokesman for the group said: "We wanted to find ways of combating the economic downturn and at the same time improving the golf experience for our members. Golfers are increasingly finding it difficult to make ends meet and by working together, golf clubs can provide a more attractive package for their memberships.

"A number of meetings have been held over the last two months and already the Alliance is working as a cohesive group for the benefit of the Tyne Valley Golfers.