Manchester event boosts PGA Benevolent Fund

The Manchester Alliance will provide PGA North with pro-am teams for one of its major tournaments later this month for the second year running.

The venture was a huge success when it served as a curtain-raiser for the Manchester Open at Marriott Worsley Park.

Regional secretary Graham Maly said: “We were pleased with the response last time and continuing the format will consolidate our excellent relationship with the organisation.

“We are hoping some of our professionals based outside the county, who have already entered the 36-hole tournament on August 26-27, will also support the pro-am which has a 1.30pm shotgun start.”

Alliance president John Dowd added: “The combined effort worked well last year and once again there will also be an am-am section.”

It costs £35 a pair and details can be obtained from newly-appointed Manchester Alliance secretary Ian Hales on 07980 449614 or email mdgainfo@yahoo.co.uk Proceeds will go to the PGA Benevolent Fund which helps PGA Members and their families through ill heath, accident or injury.

Meanwhile, the professional field includes several past winners including Welshman Garry Houston who prevailed in the inaugural event in 2002 at Mottram Hall and who won the Leeds Cup at Moortown last month for a second time.

This will be the eighth staging of the tournament at Marriott Worsley Park.