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Just Play Golf in Penrhys Secures £50k Funding

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Just Play Golf has received a £50,000 micro loan from the Development Bank of Wales to help buy and fit out a golf range in Penrhys, Rhondda Cynon Taff.

The brainchild of Matthew Phythian, Just Play Golf wants to make the new range a valuable community resource with one-to-one and group coaching and lessons available for local people. Matthew achieved his own PGA qualification through a social enterprise that offered qualifications and training in a range of sports to deprived communities.

Matthew said:

“I really wanted to create a space where golfers and those brand new to the sport can train in a non-judgemental environment. I want to provide an opportunity for people to get to know each other and build a sporting community as well as helping those with talent to go professional if they want. I think we can achieve that thanks to support from Jess and the team at the Development Bank. We’ve already had a great response from the Rhondda Valley and Penrhys community, with new members joining every day since we opened.”

Jessica White of the Development Bank of Wales added:

“When I reviewed Matthew’s application I was struck by the positive impact Just Play Golf wanted to have on Penrhys and the wider Valleys community, as well as Matthew’s obvious experience and enthusiasm for the project. Matthew has brought the disused range back to life and the transformation is fantastic. He has ambitious plans for the business and the knowledge and tenacity to make those ambitions happen. It’s a start-up with great opportunities for growth which will also directly benefit the community. Our mission at the Development Bank is to help businesses to have a real positive impact on Welsh communities. Matthew’s vision is what were are here to support.”

Business News Wales