YORK'S newest golf course is taking a leaf out of nature's book for its new clubhouse.

Carpenters are working hard at Griffon Forest, Flaxton, to construct a medieval-design green oak timber frame building - and replanting ten trees for every home-grown timber used.

Project leader Ken Lovell said: "We believe this is the largest oak frame York has seen since the days of the Merchant Taylors, and Merchant Adventurers' Halls built in the 14th century.

"The clubhouse is next to 100 acres of forest and will not only blend in with its natural surroundings, but will celebrate York's heritage for fine historical architecture."

Carpentry firm Oak and Woodland, whose experts specialise in traditional oak frames, has been featured on the BBC's Impossible Buildings and Channel 4's Grand Designs.

The company has employed medieval techniques throughout the build.

Griffon Forest's 18-hole golf course is due to be completed during 2004, and the clubhouse is expected to be open in May.

Updated: 10:06 Monday, June 09, 2003