UP and coming golfers will compete for the opportunity to qualify for The Open and play alongside the top names in the sport, when Minchinhampton Golf Club hosts a regional qualifier.

The course has been selected by the R&A, golf’s governing body, to host one of the regional qualifiers for the 147th Open to be held at Carnoustie in July.

It is one of only 13 to be selected across the UK and the qualifier gives a chance for regional professionals and elite amateur players to chase their dream of playing in a major championship against the world’s best players in what is regarded as the premier golf competition in the world.

The qualifier will be held on Monday, June 25 on the Avening Championship Course which recreates the original Martin Hawtree layout, combining, for the first time since 1995, the most challenging holes from both of the New Courses at Minchinhampton.

Minchinhampton Golf Club Chairman Paul Wilson said: “It is a great honour for us to be chosen to stage a qualifier for this famous golf championship.

"The selection process included rigorous assessments by the R&A and the Sports Turf Research Institute not only of our fabulous golf courses but also our ability to prepare for and co-ordinate the event. It is a tribute to both our green keeping staff and club managers that we passed with flying colours.”

Spectators will be welcome on the day with free admission and parking as well as access to bar and catering facilities.