The recognition marks another important milestone in the Club's continued development and supports the ambitions outlined in its recently launched Strategic Plan, which places inclusion, growth of the ladies’ section, and the long-term sustainability of the Club at the heart of its strategy. The Women in Golf Charter, established by The R&A and supported by England Golf, encourages golf clubs and organisations to take meaningful action to increase the participation and representation of women and girls across all areas of the sport, from playing and membership to leadership and employment.
Prestbury Golf Club has demonstrated its commitment through a comprehensive programme of initiatives, supported by clear objectives and measurable targets designed to deliver consistent change. Building on a Strong Foundation Women's golf at Prestbury has enjoyed significant progress in recent years, with the Club introducing a number of initiatives designed to make the game more accessible and encourage greater participation
The Club has increased its playing women's membership to 107 members in 2026, an increase of six during the year, alongside nine junior girl members. This progress has been supported by beginner coaching programmes, a dedicated women's academy pathway and initiatives aimed at creating more flexible opportunities for women to enjoy the game.
The Club's new Strategic Plan reinforces this direction, with a commitment to increasing women's membership over the next five years while ensuring that Prestbury continues to develop as a welcoming, friendly and inclusive members' club. The Charter sets a target of at least 120 playing women members over the next five years, alongside a 10% increase in junior girl membership.
As part of its Charter commitments, Prestbury Golf Club has identified eight key areas of focus, including:
• Growing women's and girls' membership: Building on recent recruitment and retention research, developing new initiatives and encouraging greater participation.
• Flexible membership pathways: Reviewing the existing women's academy structure to provide greater flexibility and support long-term retention.
• Inclusive leadership and governance: Ensuring that Board positions, committees and leadership opportunities remain accessible and representative of the wider membership.
• Welcoming communications: Promoting inclusive language and imagery that reflects the diversity of golfers across the Club.
• Greater competition opportunities: Exploring additional nine-hole, mixed and multi tee competitions to make competitive golf more accessible.
• Research-led improvement: Using member feedback and research to continually improve the experience of women and girls at Prestbury.
• Accountability and progress: Appointing a Charter Champion and reporting annually to England Golf on progress against the Club's commitments. These initiatives will be incorporated into the Club's operational planning and reviewed regularly to ensure meaningful and measurable progress.
Jeremy Tomlinson, Chief Executive Officer of England Golf, praised the Club's commitment to developing a more inclusive culture. He commented: "Prestbury Golf Club will be inspiring other clubs from across the country to develop a more inclusive culture within golf for more women and girls to develop across all levels of the sport."
Brian Purves, Chairman of Prestbury Golf Club, said: "We are extremely proud to receive this recognition from England Golf. It reflects the considerable work that has already taken place at Prestbury to develop women's golf and, importantly, our determination to continue making progress.
"We want Prestbury to be recognised not only for the quality of its golf course, but also for the welcoming environment and opportunities we provide for everyone who wishes to be part of the Club."
The Club hopes its continued efforts will encourage more women and girls to take up golf, develop their skills and enjoy the many sporting, social and personal benefits of being part of a golf club. Through its Strategic Plan and Women in Golf Charter commitments.
Copy: Geoff Garnett