THE Ian Woosnam Golf Academy has expressed interest in the under-threat Sherdley Park Golf Course.

Earlier this year, the Star reported when the golf course and driving range at Sherdley Park were admitted under review.

The news that the course may face the axe caused much dismay among golfers.

The 18-hole golf course is the only municipal in the borough and the course is home to St Helens Golf Club and a private club.

Campaigners turned out to a council Cabinet meeting in February which discussed the course's future.

At the time it was said there had not been a decision to close the golf course but an effort to "come up with some kind of sustainable model going forward".

The Ian Woosnam Golf Academy, set up by the former Ryder Cup captain and Masters winner, has said it is interested in purchasing the golf course and driving range.

The academy owns the Malkins Bank Golf Club in Sandbach, Cheshire and has paid a visit to the St Helens course. The Star understands there has been initial contact with St Helens Council.

Managing director of the Ian Woosnam Golf Academy, Tony Minshall, said to the Star: “We are looking at courses and we’ve done pretty well at Sandbach with 600 members and we’ve got a turnover of nearly £1m.

“We are experienced operators and have been looking out for this type of location.

Sherdley Park is in a decent area for population and has a decent club membership."

Tony said that they would ensure the course would still be available for the general public to play on.

“We actually put the prices down and there’s still an element of municipal and people can use facilities for £10. We have juniors as well and societies on a Friday and Saturday.

“We’re at the bottom end of the market, everybody can play as long as they dress appropriately and have the right etiquette.

"I've been down to Sherdley Park and it looks good for us, with the driving range and the course."

St Helens Council says it is unable to comment on any developments at this stage.