Hooper sets the pace

Mark Hooper has his eyes on a second Order of Merit triumph of the season after opening up a two-shot lead at the East Anglian Open.

The Rayleigh Club professional shot a fabulous six-under-par 66 in the first round at Basildon Golf Club.

Hooper, who won the PGA East Region Championship at Essendon in June, made seven birdies to set the pace.

Hot on his heels is the ultra-consistent Jason Levermore, who took his fine recent form into the fifth Order of Merit event of the year.

An eagle at the long 17^th and a birdie at the last propelled the Channels golfer into contention at four-under.

Just one shot back – and all poised to strike – are Andrew George (Ely City), Glynn Harris (Mill Hill) and Paul Hetherington (Great Hadham).

Hooper, Levermore and Harris are the final group out at 12.50pm.