DAVID Howell will be Wiltshire's sole representative in next month's Open Championship at St Andrews despite the sturdy efforts of some of the county's other professionals today.

With only three qualifying spots available from each of the four final qualifying events throughout the country today, booking a place at the 144th Open at the home of golf was always likely to be tough ask.

Former Great Britain Walker Cup star Jordan Smith, of Bowood, came closest at Hillside in Southport, finishing ninth after rounds of 73 and 72 left him with a one over par total.

Cumberwell Park's Steve Surry, a recent runner up at the EuroPro Tour's GRENKE Championship at his home course, finished tied 12th at Woburn, carding rounds of 70 and 72.

Martin Sell (Wrag Barn) shot 69 and 75 to card a two over par total at Royal Cinque Ports in Kent.