A FARMER faced with financial ruin because of the crisis affecting agriculture is hoping to tee-off a new career.
The Lea family from Kinderton Hall Farm, near Byley, have already diversified to start an equestrian business and plan to breed horses.
Now Stephen Lea has applied to Vale Royal Borough Council for planning permission to build a nine-hole pay-and-play golf course.
He hopes to sell the land with the permission and pump the money into the equestrian business.
Glyn Bridge of McDyre & Co, which is representing the family, said the Leas had been forced to transform the business due to the problems facing the farming industry. In recent times farmers have been hit by crises such as foot-and-mouth, increased costs and falling prices.
Mr Bridge said: 'Farming has become unbearable and they have had to diversify into horses and sell off the land with planning permission.
'The application is for a clubhouse, driving range and car park and has been designed by the Agricultural Development Advisory Service (ADAS).
'By having a pay-and-play golf course we hope it will attract a leisure golfer rather those who take it more seriously.
'There is an 18-hole members course nearby, but this will attract a different type of client.'
Even if the land is sold with planning permission, the new owners would still be able to change the use of the course or make it a members-only club.
