FORMER steelworker Steve Dash is relying on a different set of irons for his future prosperity.

The ex-Ebbw Vale employee has established a £130,000 driving range at Brynmawr. He is also planning a health and fitness club on the site and chalet accommodation.

The project will create three jobs initially, with more to follow as additional assets come on stream.

The site overlooks Bryn-mawr at the West Monmouth-shire Golf Club.

Mr Dash worked at Ebbw Vale steelworks for 25 years. Since the plant closed two and a half years ago he and his partner, Debbie Powell, have devoted themselves to developing the West Mon Driving Range.

The project has the backing of Corus subsidiary UK Steel Enterprise which provides funding packages in former steel areas to launch new businesses and help existing ones to expand.

Phase one of the range is almost complete and will comprise 20 bays. Golfers will perfect their swings by hitting balls towards the Brecon Beacons on the 300-yard range.

A golf professional will be available for coaching. Prac-tice holes, bunker and putt-ing coaching will also be offered.

Mr Dash said: "The setting is the most important attribute of the project.

"This is one of the most beautiful views in the Valleys and one of the main reasons we chose the spot.

"It is the highest golf club in the UK, and our plans for the future aim to make the most of this."

UK Steel Enterprise provided a loan of £35,000 with additional funds from Finance Wales and HSBC.

Russell Grant, of UK Steel Enterprise, said he was delighted to support the venture. "It not only provides employment but will be an amenity for the whole community.

"It will be a valuable addition to the golf club. In the longer term, the second and third phases will help support a growing tourism business."

Mr Dash, always a keen golfer, set up Ebbw Vale Steel-works Golf Society in 1985.

"Since those days demand for golf has increased enormously and so has the number of courses but there is still a shortage of driving ranges in the area.

"Our market research revealed there was only one in Blaenau Gwent, with others as far away as Neath, Oakdale and Abergavenny.

"We have a very good catchment area, and hope that we will attract around 30,000 people a year."