Spraggs and Webber in slender lead

Patrick Spraggs (Woodbridge) and James Webber (Three Rivers) launched a birdie blitz to lead after day one of the Weston Homes East Herts Classic.

Both players were in sizzling form on a scorching day at our third Order of Merit tournament, shooting respective four-under-par rounds of 67.

Spraggs notched six birdies and an eagle, while Webber - winner of our first Order of merit event at Bishop's Stortford - picked up a stroke against the card at no fewer than seven holes.

It all means the duo have a one-shot lead from a group of six players, who fired opening 68s.

In that group is Darren Charlton (Dunstable Downs) who has been inside the top-1o at our opening Order of Merit tournaments.

Meanwhile, Order of Merit leader Stuart Brown (Thorpe Wood) is also in touch after an opening two-under-par 69.

On a day of great scoring, no fewer than 21 players shot under par.