AMBITIOUS Matt Walker is targeting a meteoric rise in the world of golf after he secured full playing rights for the EuroPro Tour.

The Came Down professional finished tied 65th in the final qualifying event at Frilford Heath, which was good enough to help him move closer towards his dream of becoming a European Tour member.

Twenty-six-year-old Walker is scheduled to make his EuroPro Tour debut next month and a successful season could propel him further up the golfing pyramid.

The top five ranked players on the EuroPro Tour automatically qualify for the Challenge Tour – but Walker, who turned professional in April last year, harbours loftier aspirations.

Asked if he would relish challenging himself against the cream of world golf, Walker said: “That’s the aim. I’d like to play my way through the tours to get as far as I possibly can – hopefully the main tour.

“I have always believed in my ability on the golf course and I want to continue to progress. I have no fear about playing at this standard.

“To qualify for the Challenge Tour I’d have to finish in the top five on the order of merit. But my intention is to go to the main qualifying school for the European Tour, regardless of how I do.”

Rounds of 69 and 67 had seen Walker win stage one of the qualifying school – a result that the Dorset-based golfer said had been “a massive confidence boost”.

His first event of a jam-packed campaign that runs through to the Tour Championship in September will be held at the prestigious Burhill Golf Club in Surrey, starting on Friday, June 3.

Despite his ambitions, Walker – who once boasted a +2 handicap – is reliant on sponsorship and admits his dreams could be scuppered without it.

He added: “Like everyone, I’m dependent on cash. I’m trying to find backing and receive some help but for some events it costs £600 plus, which is a lot of money.

“Golf is a very expensive hobby so I’m always on the lookout for more financial help from businesses. I’d welcome any help and would be happy to hear from any potential sponsors.”

Sponsorship opportunities are available for any event and the 2011 schedule includes the chance for a sponsor to play with Walker in a PGA EuroPro Tour event.

ProtectPlus, supplier of packaging materials, is the main sponsor of Walker this season and a full schedule of events has been organised, featuring an Open Championship qualifier at Ferndown.

For more information, contact Martin Summers on 07980 691716.