A wannabe Tiger Woods is a little under par - because of poor greens at a golf course.

Teed-off Nathan Sutton is only four but has his sights set on becoming a professional golfer and has been spending every day of his Easter holidays on the pitch and putt course at Belfairs Park in Leigh.

However, mum Fran claims the greens are not kept as well as they should be and are forcing the youngster to develop bad habits.

She said: "I am really disappointed with the condition of the pitch and putt course at the moment. Eighteen months ago it was lovely, but now it has been allowed to become waterlogged and is muddy in places.

"Flags are missing from some holes, tees are not marked properly and it generally has an air of neglect."

Mrs Sutton, of Avenue Road, Westcliff, said her son, whose hero is Tiger Woods, fears his game may be affected by the poor conditions.

She said: "We cannot show Nathan how to play properly and he is falling into bad habits.

"He is too young to take to a proper course and he has been banned from playing in the back garden as he has broken so many windows.

"He is so keen to play. If Nathan had his way he would be on the green two or three times a day."

Nathan has his own mini clubs and is following in his grandfather's and father's footsteps.

Nick Harris, assistant leisure director at Southend Council, said: "We always welcome customer comments. People can speak to the park ranger on duty or call leisure services on 01702 215000.

"We are sorry the Sutton family have been disappointed and we will investigate their comments and take any necessary action."

Tough greens - Nathan set to sink a putt with sister Kathryn acting as caddie. But his mum says the greens are awful

Picture: MIKE NEVILLE

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