AMATEURS from all over the South East attempted to take their first steps towards the 138th British Open Championship, at the regional qualifying event held at Effingham Golf Club last week.

The Open is the jewel in the crown of the golfing calendar and this year will be held at Turnberry, in Scotland, from July 16-19.

The players were given a tough examination over their testing 6554 yard par 71 course.

Ninety-nine competitors took part of which only 10 made it through to the Local Final Qualifying held on three courses around Glasgow next Monday and Tuesday.

Effingham's own Richard Edgington shot a level par 71 to put him just outside the qualifying positions. However, his Open dreams aren't over yet as he is one of the reserves and should enough players drop out Edgington will be called up to take part.

Betchworth Park's Chris Willett had a less successful day finishing well off the pace with a five over par 76.