Bishop crowned at Essendon

Mark Bishop bagged first place at the East region’s second Qualifying School, courtesy of two fine rounds at Essendon Country Club.

Bishop, the Toot Hill head professional and captain of the Essex PGA, fired scores of 68 and 72 to finish at four-under-par – three shots clear.

He recorded an eagle in both rounds at the Old Course – making a three on the par-five sixth hole on day one and, 24 hours later, notching the same score on the long 13^th.

Bishop, 46, gets the second card from this year’s two Q Schools – top spot going to Chase Davis (Marriott Sprowston Manor) who won the first one at The Essex G&CC where the scoring average was lower.

Also set to get prominent status are the trio who finished in a share of second spot at Essendon – Adam Pike (Brampton Park), Sam Willis (North Weald) and Lloyd Kennedy (Woolston Manor).

The first Order of Merit event is the Weston Homes Aldwickbury Park Classic and will take place from May 16-17.