Douglas Golf Course has become the first golf club in the Island with two PGA (Professional Golfers’ Association) professionals after Gary Hunter passed his PGA playing ability test to join the elite members’ organisation for golf professionals. Mr Hunter, who is 22 and lives in Douglas, has played golf since the age of 10 and been employed at Douglas Golf Course for two years, working alongside PGA club professional Mike Vipond. In September he will be starting a PGA three-year degree course. Mr Vipond said: ‘Gary has worked long and hard to achieve PGA status. He is a great asset to the club and will now become increasingly involved with coaching, especially in terms of developing our junior golf activities under the GolfMark scheme to which the club became accredited in 2010.’ (GolfMark is UK-wide scheme that identifies and recognises a golf club’s junior and beginner-friendly golf facilities). Douglas Golf Course is owned and operated by Douglas Borough Council. Leisure services committee chairman Councillor Stephen Pitts said: ‘On behalf of the Council I congratulate Gary on his achievement and for choosing to develop his career with Douglas Golf Course which, with its GolfMark accreditation, helps to encourage young people’s sporting endeavours. The course is maintained to a high standard by head green keeper Murray Jones and his team and offers a unique opportunity to enjoy affordable golf in the heart of Douglas.’ ENDS