More than 20,000 Irish people travel abroad on golfing holidays each year. But according to Accident & General, this rapidly-growing market has been notable for the absence of specialised travel insurance. The Dublin-based brokers have filled the gap and the cover, through travel agents, is available in the so-called Fairsure and Travel Cover policies which are underwritten by Hibernian and Royal & Sun Alliance.

Apart from the standard benefits regarding medical, cancellation and baggage problems, the golf cover policy insures equipment up to £1,000. It will also cover pre-paid green-fees in the event of cancellation and hire of clubs, should that become necessary through a baggage mix-up. There is even a benefit of £150 to cover celebrations for a hole-in-one - with some conditions attached.