Former top County amateur Gary Wolstenholme made a stylish debut on the European Seniors Tour – and picked up the biggest payday of his career.

The former Kilworth Springs ace tied third in the Travis Perkins Senior Masters over the Duke's course at Woburn.

In a powerful international field, Wolstenholme shot a six-under-par 210 aggregate after rounds of 68-72-70.

Wolstenholme shared the slot with Adan Sowa of Argentina. The title was won by Tour veteran Des Smyth on 10-under 206, with Carl Mason, chasing a record 24th Seniors Tour victory, runner-up on seven-under 209.

His third-place finish means Wolstenholme, who received an invitation to compete at Woburn, has now earned the right to play in the next Seniors Tour championship in Prague later this month.

He said: "It was wonderful to have the opportunity of making my Seniors Tour debut within a few days of my 50th birthday and I was absolutely delighted to do well.

"I did not know what to expect, but my aim was to try my very best to finish in the top 10 so I would automatically get into the next Tour event.

"It has been a great thrill. I played alongside former Masters champion Ian Woosnam on the two final days.

"Everyone was very kind and made me feel welcome, so that added to the occasion for me. I have also won my biggest-ever cheque, just over 19,000 euros, and had a great time, so it's all very exciting."

This week, Wolstenholme is competing on the EuroPro Tour in Essex.

Matthew Cort has become an assistant professional with Danny Spillane at Rothley Park.

Cort has been a full-time playing pro for several years, competing on the European Tour, the Challenge Tour and other tours in this country and further afield.

He will start his PGA training shortly and said: "I have decided now that it would be good to complete the three-year training course and look forward to undertaking all aspects of this qualification."

Cort plans to compete in county and regional PGA tournaments, as well as in County Alliance events.