Euan Walker birdied the final two holes at St Mellion to win his first Challenge Tour title at the British Challenge.

The Scotsman entered the final round three shots off the lead but after posting a closing one-under 71 he reached eight under to secure a one-shot win over South Africa’s JC Ritchie. Overnight leader Matt Baldwin slipped back into third spot after a disappointing final round 76, while fourth was shared by John Parry, Simon Forsström and Adrien Saddier.

Walker, 27, was delighted to secure a first Challenge Tour title and move up 43 spots the rankings and into contention for qualification to next year’s DP World Tour with just two events left of the season.

“On the 18th I didn’t realise I was in contention until I saw the leaderboard,” he said. “I realised a birdie would probably be good enough to win so I just had to be aggressive and go for it. I hit a great drive and then I struck my approach shot perfectly. Standing over that putt was definitely the most nervous I have ever been in my life.

“For most of the year I had been battling with which kind of playing status I was going to have, but the results have been much better in recent weeks. A win at this time of the season has put me into a great position on the rankings.”

He added: “My mum and dad were here today which was absolutely brilliant. They like to come to the British events and I’m glad they were here to see this. I’ve had my dad caddie for me before and I haven’t played very well so I just wanted him to see me perform today.”

The English Trophy starts on Thursday at Frilford Heath before the Challenge Tour’s 2022 campaign concludes with the Grand Final in Mallorca next month.

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