Captain Paisley excited ahead of busy 2014

Andrew Paisley has promised to practise what he preaches by indulging in a few rounds of golf this season.

The 33-year-old Hexham professional has been appointed captain of The PGA in Engand and Wales (North), a role which comes with the perk of invitations to play in as many events as he can fit into his busy life.

But he admits that such opportunities will probably be few and far between because of his demanding teaching commitments.

"Since I arrived here five years ago I've hardly had time to play, but I've practised over the winter so I plan to take advantage of my exemption status and enter what events I can manage," he said.

Paisley, previously incumbent at nearby Matfen Hall where he trained as an assistant, is not only Northumberland County coach but also responsible for the region's England Under-18 assessment squads which embrace Durham and Cumbria and is also looking after the latter's young prospect.

"I'm working with a lot more top players, including fellow professionals, since I developed my facilities at Hexham which include two studios. My life is all about developing my coaching and I have put more emphasis on that rather than playing," he said.

Among his students are 15-year-old Matty Lamb, a Hexham member who last year won the Sir Henry Cooper Masters Championship, and fellow England player Jake Storey, from Almouth, who won the McGregor Trophy in 2012.

Paisley, who represented England and his county before turning professional, also mentors his brother Chris, six years his junior, who is on the Challenge Tour this season after losing his full card for the main circuit.

"I mostly help out with his putting," he said, pointing out that Wynyard's Andrew Nicholson looks after Chris who won the now defunct Northern Rock tournament at Matfen Hall when he was still an amateur in 2007.

Paisley, who was PGA in the North East and North West captain two years ago, added: "I love my job, I'm at a great club and it's an honour to take on the regional role."