Daniel Croft

Into his first Open Championship after coming through 18-hole Regional and 36-hole Final Qualifying at West Lancashire.

First he tied for third place with a two-under-par 70, then took the third and final spot on his own in FQ with rounds of 70 and 68.

The 24-year-old, who splits his time between playing professionally and coaching at his home club of Mersey Valley, said: “To get into The Open is by far the biggest thing I have ever done. Growing up it was always a dream. I love going there (he has attended five Championships) and I love watching it, so to actually tee it up is going to be ridiculous.

“It was like nothing I have ever felt before - just complete and utter elation really. This just makes everything I have ever done in my life all worth it.”

This was his fifth attempt at Regional Qualifying and third at the final stage. “I am supposed to have a full day of lessons tomorrow,” he added once his place was confirmed, “but if I am being honest they will probably get cancelled.”

Croft is a former Lancashire County Boys team member and made the England regional selection squad.