LADIES are getting into the swing of golf thanks to free tuition at Gourock Golf Club.

It has launched a nww drive to get more women involved in the sport.

The number of women playing the game is on the decline throughout the country and bosses at the Cowal View course hope to buck the trend with free taster and coaching sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-7.30pm throughout this month.

Lessons will be initially in the privacy of the state-of-the-art indoor development studio, with the aim of progressing outside onto the fairway.

Allan Warwick, the club's general manager, said: "Getting more ladies into golf is one of the top strategic priorities for Scottish Golf.

"We want to do all we can to attract women into golf, even if they've never picked up a club before.

"On Tuesdays and Thursdays, ladies can come along and try golf for free and it's supported by our ladies committee and by our professional, Derek Watters.

"It links in with our junior academy, which runs on a Tuesday night and is attended by around 45 kids.

"We're targeting their mothers and grans for when their sons, daughters or grandchildren are out with the academy.

"They can come here to the studio and we will introduce them to golf."

Ladies captain, Morag Cowe, says now is the time for action before it is too late.

She said: "Ladies' sections will die off and a lot of courses have already lost theirs because women aren't playing golf.

"We need to get more women into golf.

"The scores aren't as important as the company, exercise and fun you have."

Time and money are thought to be the main barriers for girls and ladies playing.

Club secretary Carol Anderson said: "I didn't think I had the time but thought I'd try this and see how I get on.

"My son is in the junior academy and I would usually walk the dog while he's there.

"It can be quite intimidating out on the course so being in here you're kind of hidden away."

As well as the free lessons throughout June, the club is also introducing a special £75 ladies season ticket covering July, August and September, which includes discounted access to the indoor studio, free lessons with Derek and help with clothing and equipment.

Avril O'Donnell, ladies vice-captain, said: "They can come along as often as they like throughout June until they are comfortable."

The club is also hosting an open weekend on June 23 and 24, which is also the annual family fun day.