A golf professional who has tutored some of Hollywood's biggest stars has been named as the new head pro at the region's newest golf course. Tom Godwin recently took up his new role at the five-star Rockliffe Hall hotel, golf and spa resort and says he has found his dream job regardless of his contacts with the A-list.

The North East's newest course, Rockliffe Hall, a 7,879-yard lay-out at Hurworth near Darlington, opened to members in July.

The 31-year-old has taken up the golfing hot seat at Rockliffe Hall having helped celebrities such as Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta Jones with their golf games.

He also counts Ryder Cup stars Darren Clarke, Thomas Bjorn and David Howell as regular playing partners.

But it is Tom's background at some of the most high profile golf developments which prompted Rockliffe Hall to appoint him as head pro.

Tom, who is originally from Yorkshire, has held positions at Abbeydale Golf Club in Sheffield, at Gleneagles in Scotland and most recently at the exclusive private members' club at Queenwood in Surrey.

Managing director of Rockliffe Hall, Nick Holmes, said: "Tom's background is second to none. He has tremendous experience at some of the best golfing destinations in the UK, and that is exactly the type of experience we have been looking for.