A COMMUNAL bar and social area has been officially opened in memory of a golf enthusiast from Poole.

Phil James and his wife, Sue, along with their son, Marc, have created a half-way house at Broadstone Golf Club, in memory of son, Dan, who died on a skiing holiday in 2002, aged 22.

Before his death, Dan was a member of the club, based on Wentworth Drive, and was part of the European Tour, so his dad, Phil, wanted to create a lasting tribute to his son.

With the help of friends and members of Broadstone Golf Club, local suppliers and the kind-hearted community, Dan’s Half-Way House features a bar, seating, kitchen, verandah and toilets for members to use.

Phil said: “Not only has this been fantastic for the club and for the memory of Dan, but it has also built me up, by working on this.

“He was an absolutely superb boy.

“He was Dorset Junior Captain, Captain for Broad-stone Golf Club, and he went on to study golf at Merrist Wood College before working on the European Tour and then became part of the scoreboard team.

“We have a big golf day here every year for him, and he is well thought of at the club.”

His wife, Sue, said: “We are really grateful for the help and generosity that people have given us. It’s all from people who knew Dan or saw him play and it’s helped us so much.

“Hopefully Dan’s Half-Way House will be well-used and will be here for a long time.”

David Morgan, general manager of Broadstone Golf Club, said: “Dan was a young member of the club and his dad, Phil, wanted to build something here in his name, which we were only too pleased about.

“It’s great for the club and the members, and it’s a heart-warming story.”