ELAINE Barrow is the new face behind the drive to get people playing and staying in golf in Dorset.

The five-handicapper has taken the reigns as the Dorset Golf Partnership’s county development officer and will be working with golf clubs and other organisations to help bring more people into the game.

Among the initiatives she will be promoting is the ‘Get into Golf’ campaign, which inspires more people to play the sport by offering great value coaching with PGA professionals.

“I’ve got a real passion for golf and for trying to encourage people to start playing, or return to the game,” she said.

“I think golf is a great way of socialising, exercising and enjoying fantastic scenery – you’ve got everything in one package.”

Barrow’s daughters, Laura, 19, and Charlotte, 17, are both single-figure players and Charlotte has just helped Hampshire to win the English Women’s County Championship.

The new development officer brings much experience to her new role.

She has been ladies’ captain and a member of both the ladies’ committee and the board of directors at her club.

She has also been the junior organiser for the Hampshire ladies and been much involved with the development of girl golfers.

Barrow has already played at many Dorset clubs and is looking forward to forging close links with everyone involved with golf in the county.

She takes over from Dee Wood, who is retiring after three years to spend more time with her six grandchildren.

However, Wood will continue to run the Dorset Tour, which encourages novice golfers to get out and play.

Jamie Woodford, England Golf’s senior regional development officer added: “I am sure Elaine will be a tremendous asset to the county and the clubs and will continue to help the Dorset Golf Partnership to develop golf and increase participation.”