World-ranking women’s event golfing event returns to Hartlepool with boosted prize fund for 2026

Backed by strengthened support from headline sponsor Plastic Processing, the tournament returns with a significantly increased prize pot.

Organisers are confident the 54-hole competition will cement its place on the annual golfing calendar, drawing elite talent to one of the country’s most celebrated links.

The 2026 edition introduces a split-venue format to test the field across two exceptional courses.

The prestigious Goswick Golf Club, in Berwick, will host the initial 18 holes on Tuesday, May 26, before the action moves to Seaton Carew for the final 36 holes on Wednesday, May 27.

As the 10th oldest club in England and a layout designed by Dr Alister MacKenzie - the legendary architect behind the home of The Masters, Augusta National - Seaton Carew provides a world-class test of golf.

Its quality was recently reaffirmed by its inclusion in the National Club Golfer Top 50 list.

Roy Leonard, club secretary at Seaton Carew, said: “We would love this to be recognised widely as the only world-ranking event in the north of England and for more elite female amateur golfers in the region to support it.

“To host such a competition at Seaton Carew proves yet again that the improvements carried out over the last five years have helped secure major tournaments for the north.

“It is fitting that a course designed by the man who created Augusta National continues to test the best amateur players today.

“Events like this make the course even more relevant to championship golf while supporting the region’s talent. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back.”

Roy added: “We are delighted that Plastic Processing has renewed for another year. We have increased the prize money as a result and it promises to be a fantastic event again.”

Thanks to the sponsorship from Plastic Processing, the overall prize fund now stands at £2,700.

The winner will take home a first prize of £600 - an increase on what the inaugural champion, Ganton GC’s Amy Staveley, won last May.

The prize breakdown also includes £500 for the runner-up, £400 for third, £350 for fourth, £300 for fifth, and £250 for sixth place. Additionally, £100 will be awarded for the best net rounds.

Patrick Connolly, director of Plastic Processing, said: “It is vital for us to support elite amateur golf in the north and provide a platform for the region's best female talent to shine on two of the best courses around.

“At Plastic Processing, we have spent over 40 years in the plastics industry and we are currently seeing a significant surge in demand for golf-related products. Aligning our brand with this prestigious championship feels like a natural fit as we continue to grow.”

The North England Women’s Amateur will follow hot on the heels of the Senior Salver, Ladies Open and Junior Open at Seaton Carew in May, kicking off an impressive run of events for the remainder of the season.

*To enter the competitions, check out www.seatoncarewgolfclub.co.uk/open-competitions