PERMISSION has been granted to Bentham Golf Club to start work on extending its nine hole course to 18.

As part of a new application to Craven District Council's planning committee, the club has scrapped plans to extend its clubhouse, even though it had planning permission for that part of the proposal.

The club will now extend its golf course from nine to 18 holes - 54 to 126 acres - but players will not be able to enjoy the new function room, bars and shop which were to be included in the makeover.

The current lounge bar and kitchens have undergone a major refurbishment, however.

Chairman of directors John Chapman said the development was a major step forward for the club, which was established in 1922.

Work on the new holes would begin immediately, with a view to an official opening next spring.

Club captain David Crutchley added: "A lot of hard work has been put in by many members to get us to this stage. It's a very exciting development for the club.

"The existing nine hole course has always provided a challenge to golfers and I have no doubt the new holes will be a good test for all."

To encourage both experienced and novice golfers to join, the club has opened its doors to new members and, for a limited period, has dispensed with joining fees.

As part of the planning approval, an alternative footpath will be created to the east of tees seven and 14.

Currently the footpath goes across the course, leaving walkers in the firing range of golfers.

In the original application the club's car park was also to be enlarged to cater for the increase in golfers.

But because the clubhouse will not now be extended, it was agreed it should stay the same.