Late entry Dicxon takes the lead at Cumberwell Park

European Tour player David Dixon (Enmore Park) was the final entrant in the Players Championship at Cumberwell Park so was given the opening tee time.

He took full advantage with a blistering round of seven-under-par 64 on the first day of the 36-hole tournament supported by Lansdown Mazda.  He played in perfect early conditions before the temperatures reached the 30s and the wind increased.

After his sole bogey on the fourth he added six birdies and made an eagle two after driving the 300-yard tenth hole, a feat matched later by Dan Carter (Upavon), the surprise packet who assumed second place only one shot behind the Somerset man.

Carter’s best finish in an Order of Merit event was joint second in the Forest Classic two years ago. He was in superb form as he went out in 33 and returned in four-under 32. His round included seven threes and he did not drop a shot.

Former European Tour left hander Stuart Little also avoided a bogey and also carded seven threes to take third spot on 68 and join the final three-ball for the concluding round.

The relentless Lee Thompson (Dudsbury) and promising newcomer Louis Boston (Windmill Golf Academy) share fourth on 69 while Michael Watson (Wessex Golf Centre) signed for 70 as the only other player in a field of more than 100 to better par.

Defending champion Adam Frayne (Yelverton) and two-time winner Liam Bond (Marriott St Pierre) joined Barry Forster (North Wilts), Russell Berry (Broadway) and Kevin Harper (East Devon) on even par 71.

Pre-tournament favourite and Order of Merit leader Paul Hendriksen (Ivybridge) lies joint 32nd on 75.