Graduated from plastic clubs to real ones aged five before joining Ashton Under Lyne Golf Club near his home in Manchester – the club he is still attached to – at seven.

Highlight of his amateur career was his victory at the British Boys Championship in 2006 at Royal Aberdeen.

Had hoped to return there for the Walker Cup in 2011, but the lure of turning professional and competing on the European Tour proved too strong to resist.

Hopes to follow in the footsteps of his friend and Masters Champion Danny Willett.

Is an avid Formula One fan.