CHIPPENHAM teenager Nick James hopes to have picked up some tips to boost his own professional ambitions after enjoying a day’s golf alongside Ryder Cup star Ian Poulter.

The 16-year-old, from Cepen Park, linked up with Poulter, ranked 27 in the world, at the Marquess course at Woburn Golf Club, on Monday.

The English star, who had finished tied ninth at the Open at Lytham & St Annes a day earlier, passed on advice in a golf clinic and watched five-handicapper James shoot an 84 (nett 79) around the challenging Buckinghamshire track.

James, who earned the day out after finishing top of a junior order of merit at his club, the Manor House in Castle Combe, joined more than 100 young players for the event.

The Hardenhuish School student, who has just finished his GCSE exams, said: “He (Poulter) is definitely one of my favourite players – the clothes he wears makes him stand out. We had our photo taken with him and later on, when we were playing, he was driving around in a buggy and giving us some advice on what shots to hit.

“He also did a bit of a golf clinic and it was a good chance to ask him questions about what’s important when you are trying to be a professional golfer.

“I learned a lot from the day and it was definitely one of my favourite courses that I’ve played.’’ James, who has been a member of Manor House for nearly nine years, regularly turns out for the club’s mens and junior teams.

Poulter Ian, who has been the international touring pro at Woburn for over nine years, said: “It’s always such a special day to be able to get some of the best junior golfing talent together and give them an opportunity I never had.’’

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