AN East Lothian greenkeeper and his wife have launched a new appeal for golf equipment to help children in Ghana achieve their sporting dreams.

Brian McKendrick and his wife Jacqui, of Aberlady, are spearheading a campaign to equip youngsters in the African country who want to learn the sport with the ability to do so – but it needs equipment, a practice range and volunteers.

The couple have collected equipment in the past to help the children from Jacqui’s home country. Brian is head greenkeeper at Craigielaw Golf Club.

This time, their plans are more ambitious as they work alongside Edinburgh charity Chance For Africa to create a golf legacy in Ghana.

Jacqui said: “In Ghana, children want to play sports, including golf, but they have to use sticks for clubs and roll up newspaper to make balls, and they cannot access the courses because they do not have the right clothes or even, at times, shoes.

“We looked at our home county East Lothian and its links with golf and thought maybe we could make a difference to some young peoples’ lives.

“Too often the focus is on football but sport, any sport, can give children access to a better future as well as inspiring them.” Jacqui hopes not just to provide equipment but eventually to be able to set up a golf academy in Ghana and buy a strip of land to build a practice course where children can come and learn the sport.

She and Brian also hope to find volunteers among the county’s golfing professionals to travel to the West African country and give their time to youngsters once a centre is up and running.

She even hopes to bring children who prove to have a real interest in the sport – and possibly future stars – to East Lothian for sponsored trips and training.

Jacqui said: “We would like to create something which gives children the chance to participate in the sport and develop for years to come, that is the long-term goal – and we are always keen to talk to anyone who is able to help out.” To find out how to get involved or donate equipment to the cause, contact the couple at jacquibrian3@hotmail.co.uk or text or call 07783 986142, or, after 6pm, 07956 897095.

Details of the venture can be found at chanceforafrica.org.uk/Get-Involved/Sports