Promising right back, who had signed schoolboy forms with Sheffield Wednesday, his football career ended at the age of 14 after a bad tackle caused knee damage. However he admits that ‘proved to be a blessing in disguise’ as it nudged him towards playing golf seriously. Turned pro at 17 in 1985 with a handicap of plus two. Worked closely over the years with former European Tour professional Hadyn Selby-Green. Made three out of eight cuts on The European Tour in 2000 to set himself up for a fourth straight attempt at the Qualifying School Finals where he achieved his ambition of earning a Tour card. Finished 154th on the Order of Merit in 2001 and spent the subsequent three seasons on the Challenge Tour before reclaiming his card in 31st place at the Qualifying School. Made a quick impact on The 2005 European Tour International Schedule, finishing runner-up to Charl Schwartzel in the dunhill championship.