GOLF expert Andy Salmon is driving home a positive message by heading a bid for Manchester to become a leading golf and leisure resort in the North-west. The Westhoughton man has just been recruited as golf operations manager at the Marriott Manchester Hotel and Country Club at Worsley Park which is due to open in October. The £15 million hotel is expected to employ around 200 people.

The 29-year-old of New Drake Road, joins Marriott from the Professional Golfing Association where he was northern regional secretary, managing tournaments and professional golf in the North-west.

General manager, Peter Bech, said: "Andy's experience with the PGA speaks for itself, having increased the region's events to their highest level for five years.

"His appointment is a major coup and we're delighted to have him on board to help make Marriott the best golfing experience in the North-west."

Andy is now spearheading the opening of the new championship course at the hotel in April 1999.

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