Webber sparkles at Essendon

James Webber (Three Rivers G&CC) produced a brilliant round of golf to top the pile at the halfway stage of the Weston Homes East Region Championship.

The Essex ace, 24, fired a first-round 64 at Essendon Country Club to lead by a shot at eight-under-par from in-form Ian Campbell (Cheshunt Park).

On a sizzling day of golf in which no fewer than 37 players broke par, Webber lit up the Old Course at Essendon, notching two eagles and six birdies.

It was an astonishing display, especially from the tenth as he went five-under for five holes.

Order of Merit leader Campbell was also on on-song. Indeed after 17 holes it looked as if he would share the lead alongside Webber.

But a slip-up at the last meant the Scot had to be satisfied with a round of 65.

In no way will it be a two-horse race in the second round as multiple Order of Merit winner Jason Levermore (Channels) is just two shots back after his opening 66 – the same mark as Adam Pike (Brampton Park).

Andrew Pestell (Chelmsford) and Noel Quinn (Whipsnade Park) are also bang in contention after starting off with respective rounds of 67.

A further five players sit at four-under – and any of them will fancy their chances of making a run at the title on day two.