Taverner too good at Mill Hill

James Taverner (Hendon) proved the class act as he surged to a five-shot success in the Middlesex Open.

He finished at one-over-par after 36 holes at Mill Hill with his nearest rivals being defending champion Glynn Harris and Michael Moore.

Taverner was swiftly into gear in the opening round, turning for home at two-under.

But the tough back nine at Mill Hill saw him drop back and he finished with a one-over 71.

That left him just a stroke ahead of Moore and amateur Gyu Kee. But he made three birdies early in his second round to remain on course for victory.

Harris threatened to lay down a strong challenge before faltering with a bogey and a double bogey at 15 and 16 respectively.

Taverner's back nine wasn't without its problems but he signed for a 70 to record an overall 141 total - comfortably good enough to land the spoils.