Meet the Team

Gavin Abson
Head PGA Golf Professional

Gavin, originally from Solihull, joined the club in January 2016. Prior to that Gavin was Head PGA Golf Professional at The Carrick on Loch Lomond for 6 years during which he was a County Coach and a Bunkered Golf Magazine Teaching panellist for 6 years. Prior to joining the Carrick on Loch Lomond, Gavin spent two years as Qualified PGA Golf Professional at Royal Troon Golf Club.

Gavin started his PGA training, after completing an honours degree in Sport Management, as an Assistant Professional at Cocks Moors Woods Golf Course in Birmingham. Gavin spent 5 years here and during this period played full time on the PGA Europro Tour and also caddied on the European Tour on and off for nearly 10 years.

Gavin has vast experience coaching golfers of all ability levels, from complete beginners to fellow golf professionals and was appointed Lancashire Ladies Elite Squad Coach in 2017. In 2022 Gavin was appointed as a Lancashire County Boys coach to help deliver the ever growing County Academy Programme. Gavin is also highly trained in custom fitting using launch monitor technology such as GC Quad and Trackman.

Ed Tranter

Head PGA Assistant Golf Professional

Ed joined The West Lancashire Golf Club in 2018, following his time at Lilleshall Hall Golf Club, where he began working in the professional shop at the age of 16. This early introduction to the golf industry provided a strong foundation in customer service, retail operations, and player support, which he has continued to develop throughout his career.

Ed brings a wealth of experience in delivering a consistently high standard of customer service, combined with extensive knowledge in coaching, custom fitting, and golf retail. His well-rounded skill set enables him to support golfers of all abilities, ensuring both performance improvement and an exceptional overall experience.

In recognition of his coaching expertise and commitment to player development, Ed was appointed a Lancashire County Academy Coach in 2024, contributing to the ongoing development of emerging talent within the county structure. He is also a Titleist ambassador, reflecting his alignment with one of the game’s leading equipment brands and his expertise in custom fitting.

James Dean

Head PGA Assistant Golf Professional

James joined the team at The West Lancashire Golf Club in 2018, following similar roles at Lewes Golf Club and Wycombe Heights Golf Centre. He then spent three years at Foxhills Golf Club in Surrey, where he progressed to the position of Head Assistant PGA Professional.

James brings a wealth of experience in delivering a consistently high standard of customer service, alongside strong expertise in both coaching and retail. He has worked with golfers of all abilities, from beginners to experienced players, and is committed to supporting player development and enhancing overall performance.

James is available to assist members, their guests, and visitors alike, ensuring a welcoming and professional experience both on and off the course.

Jack Bottomley-Clift
Trainee PGA Golf Professional

Jack joined the team at The West Lancashire Golf Club in 2026, having begun his PGA training at Didsbury Golf Club. Jack turned professional in 2025, achieving an impressive +3 handicap.

In addition to his playing credentials, Jack brings more than five years of experience in professional club fitting and retail, gained at one of the UK’s largest golf stores as well as on Australia’s Gold Coast. He is highly proficient in the use of Foresight launch monitor technology, enabling him to deliver precise, data-driven custom fitting solutions.

Jack is committed to providing an exceptional standard of customer service and is passionate about helping golfers of all abilities improve their performance, ensuring an enjoyable and rewarding experience for members and visitors alike.