WHEN Andrew Oldcorn did what no British amateur had done before in 1983 a glittering European tour career beckoned. Now, 18 years on, he has it within his grasp.

Oldcorn, the first player from these shores ever to win a maximum four points in the Walker Cup, takes a five-stroke lead into the final round of the Volvo PGA championship at Wentworth today.

Eighteen holes away is a cheque for £333,330, a five-year tour exemption and, from the depths of 98th place in the Ryder Cup points table, a golden opportunity to be part of Sam Torrance's side in September.

By opening with two rounds of 66 Oldcorn equalled the championship half-way record of 12 under and by adding a 69 yesterday he equalled the 54-hole record as well. He also opened the biggest-ever advantage with a round to play.

Droitwich's John Bickerton is 15 shots off the lead after following his opening round of 69 with 71 and 76. Hereford's David Park narrowly missed the half-way cut following two level-par rounds of 72.