Ellis bags Strokeplay title

Ian Ellis (Great Yarmouth & Caister) cruised to a 10-shot triumph in tough conditions at the PGA in Norfolk Strokeplay Championship.

Ellis, who has qualified to play in next month's BMW PGA Championship, opened up at Weston Park with a one-over-par 73.

But he gave himself a pre-Wentworth tonic thanks to a second-round birdie blitz that left the field trailing in his wake. He fired a 68 to close out at three-under for 36 holes, landing the title in emphatic style.

He said: "In the afternoon I hit the ball really nicely and had nine birdies.

"I really needed to get a nice round under my belt, so to score like that around a tough course in horrible conditions was a boost for my confidence.

"I've made a few changes this year and have been seeing close friend Alex Lucas (Ipswich Golf Centre).

"The simple changes we have made seem to be working and have given me a renewed confidence ahead of the start of the season.

"With the BMW only seven weeks away I can't wait to hopefully make it seventh time lucky and make the cut this time!

"I also can't wait for the PGA Professional Championship a couple of weeks later at Burnham & Berrow where a top-five finish will earn my place in the PGA Cup team alongside Jason Levermore.

"Given the choice of making the cut at Wentworth or a top five at Burnham & Berrow, I'll take the PGA Cup (qualification) every time."