MARK WIGGETT took advantage of playing the opening Dorset and Wiltshire PGA medal of the season on his home course by winning with a par round of 71.

The veteran serial winner in the West has stepped back from regular competitive play after reaching the age of 50 but his ball-striking and course management is showing no sign of diminishing.

In bright and breezy conditions with a strong easterly wind making the course play totally different from normal, he opened and closed his round with birdies and added a further birdie and three bogeys.

Michael Watson (Wessex Golf Centre), Kieron Fowler, the talented second year assistant at Lyme Regis, and top Wiltshire player Mark Sandry (Broome Manor) tied for second place on 73.

Once again the two counties are holding a joint order of merit, the Race To Bowood.

The leading 18 players will be eligible for the final event at Bowood Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort playing for an enhanced prize fund.

The top three Dorset and top three Wiltshire PGA members at the final event will represent their county in the Inter Counties South West Qualifier.

The leading player from each county at Bowood will receive a bonus payment from the sponsor.

The county secretaries Simon Shanks (Wiltshire) 07742258229 and James Wilson (Dorset) 07813895491 are urging the fullest support from members this season.

The entry fees are £20 for a qualified member or trainee plus a £10 initial registration fee to join the county PGA.