AN amateur golfer from Lymm is one step closer to playing with a star of the European Tour after qualifying for the national final of Bridgestone’s Chase Your Dream Trophy, run in partnership with England Golf.

Andrew Cox from Lymm Golf Club triumphed at the regional qualifier at Preston Golf Club with a net score of 74 shots and now goes forward to the final in England Golf Week at Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire, next month.

The winner there will be England Golf’s male Handicap Golfer of the Year and the top nine players in the field will feature in the pro-am of the Bridgestone Challenge, the English leg of the Challenge Tour, at Luton Hoo on September 6.

Cox, playing off a handicap of 12, said: “I genuinely loved each second of the round. I always seem to do well when I play Preston.

“I played really well particularly on a difficult third hole. Hopefully I can continue my form.

Cox, who has been playing golf for around 15 years, added: “This tournament is a super opportunity to make a name for yourself and sets up some unmatched golfing opportunities.

“I’m looking forward to Woodhall Spa and hoping to meet some great people, while continuing my fine form!”

The top nine at Woodhall Spa will be joined by the top nine players from the companion men’s championship, making up a total of six teams in the pro-am at Luton Hoo.

The most successful of these teams will go on to the pro-am of the British Masters, supported by Sky Sports, at Close House in Northumberland later in the same month, playing with a star of the European Tour.

The Bridgestone Chase your Dream Trophy is an annual event open to members of England Golf’s 1,900 affiliated clubs and features separate competitions for men and women.