IN the week one of the most famous golf clubs in the world voted against allowing women to become members, one local course brought the ladies game into the 21st century.

Hagley Golf and Country Club unveiled its new ladies locker room as part of its commitment to growing the number of female players at the Wassell Grove Lane venue.

The modern changing facilities, available to all female members, as well as their guests and club visitors, were officially opened by golf legend Alison Nicholas – former winner of ‘The Open’ and ‘US Open’ – and Mary O'Rourke, the golf club’s lady captain.

Speaking at the opening, Alison, who has also won the Solheim Cup as captain of Europe, recognised the club’s effort and investment in the locker room as a great means to gaining more female players at Hagley Golf Club.

She added: “Once again Hagley has invested in making itself more attractive to local golfers. I really hope it helps bring more women to join and play here.”

To further encourage women to take up the sport, the Hagley club has also recently reduced the cost of membership for lady golfers.