OAK Royal is an ongoing success story which is turning other regional golf clubs "green” with envy.

Ten years after its official opening by PGA chief executive Sandy Jones in 2007, it has become established as one of the best nine-hole courses in the North West.

Its lay-out has brought admiring comments from people who mix in the upper echelons of the game who expressed amazement at how quickly it has matured in such a short time.  Stunning views of the Pennine Moors and surrounding countryside is the perfect venue for seasoned golfers and beginners.

It will be difficult to find comparison anywhere in the area of its expansive, all-year-round greens meticulously designed and built to USGA standard.

A beautifully-appointed clubhouse, impressive hotel, golf shop and men’s and ladies’ locker-rooms, and hugely popular restaurant and function room, make Oak Royal the compete package.

It’s hardly surprising, then, that the Bury Lane venue in the village of Withnell near Chorley and situated in stunning countryside was fast-tracked into the Lancashire Union of Golf Clubs whose delegates admitted being pleasantly taken aback when they inspected the course.

Equally so has been the number of visiting golfers who joined after playing only a few rounds and have helped to boost the steadily rising membership.