Play at your own pace
No pressure, no handicaps, no competition — golf on terms that work for you, including affordable access to buggies for those who need them.
Created in the North East · National ambitions
Helping people get back into golf, and back into life, after having a stroke.
A not-for-profit community initiative Registration & company details to follow
Our story
As Andrew started playing golf again, the two friends saw first-hand just how powerful getting back onto a course could be. It wasn't about scores, handicaps or competition. It was about getting out, having something to look forward to, talking, laughing, rebuilding confidence and enjoying being with other people again.
Mark has worked in professional sport for more than 40 years, yet even he was surprised by the difference golf made to Andrew. Seeing that change was the inspiration behind Stroke Play Golf.
The concept was quite literally born in a golf buggy, during the many hours the two spent together on the course, asking one simple question: if golf could make such a difference to one person, how many other people and families could benefit from the same opportunity?
That conversation became Stroke Play Golf.
Born in a golf buggy.
Why we exist
It isn't about competition. It's about being part of something again.
— Andrew & Mark, founders of Stroke Play Golf
Our vision
For golfers, lapsed golfers, and their partners, family and friends.
Welcoming, supportive and inclusive. No pressure, no competition — just getting out, enjoying golf and each other's company.
Golf can help rebuild confidence, improve wellbeing, and create connections that change lives.
We're building something special — and we need you to be part of it.
To build Stroke Play Golf in the North East, prove that it works, build a real community — and then take it nationwide.
Join us at the beginning of this journey.
What we do
A place to play golf at your own pace, meet others, talk, make friendships and enjoy being part of something again — and it isn't only for the person who had the stroke.
No pressure, no handicaps, no competition — golf on terms that work for you, including affordable access to buggies for those who need them.
A stroke can affect the whole family, often in ways others don't see. Partners, family and friends are very much part of the community.
Working with supportive golf clubs and partners to make getting back onto the course genuinely accessible — and genuinely affordable.
Our first event
Our first Stroke Play Golf day, at Longhirst Golf Club on 30 September, showed us exactly why this needs to exist.
And some of those who didn't play at all were still part of the conversations, laughter and support that filled the day. You don't have to play golf to benefit.
Our first day at Longhirst.
Get involved
Every bit of support helps us grow and change lives. Here's where you come in.
Money keeps events affordable and covers buggies, insurance and welcome packs. Sponsors and funders who believe in this make it possible.
Local businesses and organisations who want to back a North East cause with real, visible community impact.
Clubs who can help host sessions, offer playing opportunities and make people feel genuinely welcome.
Share our posts, tell friends and family, and connect us with people or networks who should know about Stroke Play Golf.
Volunteers, supporters, ideas, introductions, time — if you can help in any way, we'd love to hear from you.
If a stroke has touched your life or your family's, come and help shape what this becomes. Your experience is the point.
Who we are
Two friends, a golf buggy and a simple idea — now joined by a stroke survivor who has spent over 30 years in golf at Longhirst.
Get in touch
Whether you've had a stroke, care for someone who has, run a golf club, or simply want to help — we'd love to hear from you.
Email us at visit@strokeplaygolf.org.
Or call Andrew on 07775 989882.
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