WILTSHIRE’S largest and Swindon’s only 18-hole football golf course is opening its doors to the public this weekend.

Football golf, a hybrid sport of golf and football, has continued to grow in popularity in this county and Basset Down opened up a six-hole football golf course in 2015, subsequently expanding to 12 holes the following year.

The complex, near junction 16 of the M4, is opening a brand new, 18-hole course on Saturday.

Similar to golf, the aim of the game is to kick a football (size 3-5s) from a tee into a large hole on a green in the minimum amount of kicks possible. The person at the end of the round with the lowest score wins.

The course is set in 100 acres, spreading over 2,183 yards and featuring Academy Tees with shorter distances for younger children and natural obstacles, including trees, water and bunkers to play around.

Basset Down Golf Complex owner Juliette Nutland, said: “Football golf has proved to be a popular activity for groups of family and friends looking for something different to do in Swindon. It’s great fun for birthdays, special occasions, and also popular with local football teams for their end of season presentations.

“The beauty of the game is that you don’t have to be an expert footballer or golfer to play, and it’s fun for all ages.

"We want to break down the boundaries and assumptions about golf courses. Football golf has helped us to introduce new people to Basset Down and even to the world of golf”.

Work is also underway at Basset Down on a separate nine-hole crazy footgolf course, which will be the first of its kind in Wiltshire, with each hole themed and named after famous local landmarks, including Stonehenge and The Ridgeway.

The course is due to open on the Whitsun Bank Holiday in May.

For more information on opening times and prices on both courses, visitors can call the clubhouse on 01793 812336 or visit their website swindonfamilygolf.com.