Newly elected Lady Captain of Tapton Park Golf Club, in Chesterfield, has chosen to support the British Heart Foundation (BHF) as her charity of the year.

Alison Howards’ new role as Lady Captain will commence in January, with her official drive-in on 19th January.

Alison chose to support BHF because of the pioneering research and patient care work that the BHF coordinates.

Alison, 50, of Dronfield, said: "My Mum recently underwent heart surgery and has made a fantastic recovery which was helped in a big way by the information and aftercare available from the BHF. With heart disease being the UK’s biggest killer, I want to raise as much money as possible for BHF."

Alison is planning a variety of fundraising ideas, including a fun 3 club competition for all the family in June, a Ladies Open Golf Competition at Tapton Park in July, her Captains Day in August and a Red Day in October . Alison is also supporting National Heart Month, by organising an indoor putting session during February.

Sophie Jardine, Fundraising Volunteer Manager, said: "I am extremely grateful to Alison for choosing to support the BHF during her time as Lady Captain - it sounds like she has many wonderful things planned over the next year!

"There are 2.6 million people living with coronary heart disease in the UK – we are a charity and rely on donations and fundraising events to continue, so huge thanks go to Alison."