JON Welch will fulfil an amateur golfer’s dream next week when he takes part in the biggest competition of his career to date.

The Weymouth and Dorset ace is set to compete in a field of 288 golfers at the English Amateur Championships, which this year is being held at Siloth-on-Solway and Seascale Golf Clubs from Monday to Saturday.

The format of the competition is 36 holes of strokeplay across two courses over two days, with the top 64 qualifying for a matchplay knockout stage.

Welch told Echosport: “I have not entered a national competition of this size before so everything will be a new experience.

“I am excited by the prospect of competing at this level and believe in my ability and feel confident that I can qualify for the matchplay stage of the tournament.

“This is a big step up in level from county and club golf so I am looking forward to the challenge and to see how I compare with the present top English amateurs.”

To follow Welch’s progress in the competition log on to englandgolf.org/championships to access the live scoring link.

Weymouth Golf Club men’s captain Dave Picton added: “The club is proud to be represented at the competition and all the members wish Jon every success at this prestigious event.”