THE number one no-no when playing golf is trying to hit the ball too hard.

Put a group of professional rugby league players on the tee together, competing to drive the ball the furthest, and that kind of advice falls on deaf ears.

And it was all a bit of fun anyway.

Warrington Wolves has formed a partnership with Birchwood Golf Club which saw several senior players try their hands on the fairways and greens.

Brothers Joel and Michael Monaghan were joined by Ben Westwood, Gareth O'Brien, Ben Evans and Rhys Evans at the event.

Under the watchful eye of Godfrey Gwilliam, chairman of the golf club, they attempted a few putts before swapping to a driver on the first tee.

The new partnership means they will be able to get some practice in, as it offers all first team players and coaches at Wolves free access to the championship course, training facilities and indoor practice centre.

Westwood said: "I've played a couple of rounds and really enjoyed the course.

"It's fantastic that there's a new partnership in place with Wolves.

"With the new memberships, I'm hoping my handicap will finally start to reduce."

Mr Gwilliam said: "This is an exciting time for both clubs, and we are delighted to join the Warrington Wolves in a new partnership."