JOHN Bickerton was seriously concerned last week about whether he would even be part of the European Tour next season -- he need worry no more.

The 35-year-old from Droitwich is not just safe, but a champion at last after romping to a five-stroke success at the Canaries Open in Tenerife over the weekend.

Bickerton went into the tournament 117th on the Order of Merit with only the top 115 surviving after next week's Majorca Classic.

But his maiden victory, after 287 tournaments, earned him just over £51,000 and a year's exemption.

Not that he can celebrate just yet. A freak set of results at this week's Madrid Open could push him back down near the "relegation zone," but in all probability he has done enough.

With not a single member of the world's top 100 present it was a golden opportunity, but with so much at stake Bickerton was understandably relieved and delighted.

Bickerton, five times a runner-up in European Tour events, said: "Finally -- it feels fantastic, awesome.

"The first win has been a long time coming and I have been very worried about my place on tour.

"It's your career, your future lies on this game and a few quid makes such a difference.

"I moved down five spots last week (after missing his sixth half-way cut in nine starts), but it made me more determined and it is nice to pull this off under pressure."