A golf instructor is offering free training and equipment to school pupils to nurture young, untapped talent.

Shane Sheehy has managed Fairways Driving Range in Southend Road, Chingford, for six years.

The 49-year-old also runs Sheehy Golf Academy from the range, where he spends 25 hours a week improving the technique of young golfers.

But he is determined to raise the profile of the sport in the borough and believes there is talent that is being missed.

He said: "My belief is schools in Waltham Forest and Redbridge should bring their pupils to the range and introduce the sport into the curriculum.

"I would give the kids free balls, equipment and tuition just so they can say they experience it.

Mr Sheehy’s passion to broaden the appeal of the sport, which is usually associated with wealthier people due to high club fees and equipment, stems from his own experience growing up on a council estate in Limerick.

He said: "I came from a similar background to some of the kids I teach and growing up my only exposure was the Irish Open on TV.

“I would play with friends on a nearby grass area and dig a hole in the ground."

"All schools should at least give children an opportunity to try the sport and golf governing bodies should do more to give under-privileged children access and awareness of the game."

To find out more about the academy, please email shane@fairwaysdrivingrange.co.uk