A Newbury care home resident proved that age is no barrier to realising dreams when he learnt to play golf at the ripe old age of 85.

Brian Dunford, from Argyles Bupa Care Home, successfully completed six lessons at Donnington Valley Golf Club last summer and recently received a certificate of congratulations from organisers.

The tuition was facilitated by Get Berkshire Active, a charity dedicated to helping people experience the benefits of sports and physical activity, with the support of his carers at Argyles.

During the lessons, which were delivered by Dieter Strohbach, Brian learnt to putt and swing at the 18-hole course in Newbury.

Helen-Marie Oakman, activities co-ordinator at the Argyles Bupa Care Home, said Brian had impressed everyone with his skills.

She added: "We were aware that Brian had a long-held ambition to play golf, so we were delighted to find out that we could make that a reality thanks to the wonderful work of Get Berkshire Active.

"Helping people to live independent lives within a care setting is very much one of our main aims. Brian made great progress during his lessons and I’ve no doubt Rory McIlroy has some new competition!”

Nick Rance of Get Berkshire Active, said: “It was a pleasure to assist Brian and witness the progress he made. We could see he really enjoyed the experience and proved age is no barrier when it comes to being more physically active. We hope he’ll be back on the green before too long!

“At Get Berkshire Active we support people of all ages to be more physically active and this initiative was supported locally thanks to West Berkshire Council. We are always looking to set up new programmes and work with new partners, so do get in touch by visiting www.getberkshireactive.org.”