EUROPEAN Tour star John Bickerton took time out from his hectic schedule to join members and guests in playing in the climax to the golfing season at Chateau des Vigiers Golf and Country Club.

Worcestershire professional Bickerton, who won the French Open in 2006, lined up in the select field for the annual Coupe des Vigiers competition at the exclusive 27-hole resort, which lies in the south-west of France between Bordeaux and Bergerac.

This year’s competition was held over La Vallée, the newest of the three nine-hole loops designed by Donald Steel at the converted 16th century chateau, and Le Lac course. Bickerton didn’t disappoint his playing partners —local teaching professional Vincent Trojani and French Alps and Challenge Tour member Nicolas Joakimides — as he shot a two-under-par round of 69 in glorious, sunny conditions.

Bernard Pétine, managing director of the resort in the Dordogne, said: “The Coupe des Vigiers is the highlight of our golfing season and having John here was great for all who attended.

“The members who played certainly enjoyed seeing the skills of all the professionals taking part and will hopefully have learned a lot.”

Bickerton also conducted two golf clinics for members and hotel guests during his stay at the luxurious resort, while he was guest of honour at the tournament’s gala dinner and prize-giving ceremony.

Bickerton’s visit helped to mark the completiton of an eight million Euro investment at the resort.