STORRIDGE golfer Graham Hawkings is preparing for his initial attempt at the PGA seniors European tour later this month in Scotland.

Graham hit the qualifying age of 50 in April and after recently concentrating on getting his equestrian business at his Storridge farm up and running now feels the time is right for him to hit the fairways.

He said: "I would not be entering the tour if I felt I would not be up to it. The time is right for me to put a toe in the water and find out how I can do."

A member and still attached to The Worcestershire Golf Club in Malvern Wells, Graham was the assistant to professional Graham Harris before he left to become the first pro at the newly-opened Bransford Golf Club, based at the Bank House Hotel in 1991.

Following that he later moved to Dymock Grange GC where he also had the role of club professional.

He has been club champion at The Worcestershire six times and as an amateur often played for the county.

Graham said: "I have playing and practising regularly but have not been a pro at a club recently because I did not want that commitment with this on the horizon."

He has still been teaching for the PGA at the British Open and at various summer schools, some in and around the Malvern area.

Graham's first event on the tour will be the Seniors British Open, to be played at Abedeen on July 21-24.

He then looks forward to competitions in Ireland, Portugal and Barbados and rubbing shoulders with household names like former Ryder Cup-winning captain Sam Torrance, Tommy Horton, Brian Barnes and Neil Coles.

His wife, Pat, is no golfing widow as she has caddied for Graham many times and is due to caddie for him on the tour.

Graham is still looking for sponsorship and can be contacted on 07786 931743 (m).