Children to get into the swing with golf legend; Nicklaus to coach youngsters.

Byline: JAMIE BOWMAN

AMERICAN golfing legend Jack Nicklaus will coach youngsters from the region when he pays a visit to Merseyside.

The 18-time Major winner, who many regard as the sport's greatest ever player, will visit For mby Golf Resort and Spa on the region's "Golf Coast" on September 7 to provide coaching for youngsters

As well as passing on technical tips about how to improve their game, Nicklaus will also help to promote the importance of sportsmanship and fair play in life, as well as in sport.

Twenty five lucky children will get the chance to quiz the twotime Ryder Cup captain about his life in golf and his charity work which involves mentoring disadvantaged people There will also be the chance for the youngsters to take part in an exclusive coaching session at For mby's state-of-the-art Academy.

The charity behind the visit, First Tee, aims to provide young people of all backgrounds an opportunity to develop lifeenhancing values such as confidence, perseverance and judgment through golf and education.

Nicklaus has been honorary chairman of the charity since its inception in the US and it is hoped the programme can spread across the UK.

Nicklaus said: "At a time when we need to do everything we can to promote positive values in our children, particularly thinking beyond themselves and caring for others, the First Tee has adopted that mission and is doing an excellent job.

"The First Tee is not just about playing golf, it is much more.

"It is about giving back to your community, helping others and using the game and its life lessons to succeed in life."

Mark Williams, head of golf at For mby Hall Golf Resort &Spa, said: "The First Tee is a fantastic organisation and we're delighted to be part of only the second event to take place in the UK.

"Jack Nicklaus stayed at the resort last year and witnessed first hand how good the facilities are here."

Golfer regarded as the greatest in the game Born January 21, 1940 in Colombus, Ohio Turned professional in 1961 Was ranked number one golfer in the world from 1968 to 1977 Holds the record for the most wins at The Masters with 6 Nicknamed 'The Golden Bear' Won a record 18 major championships Played on 6 Ryder Cup teams, as well as captaining the team twice. Was the first living person outside the Royal Family to appear on a British banknote, after his likeness appeared on a special commemorative Scottish five pound note.

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Jack Nicklaus during The Open Championships at St Andrews, Scotland