by Our Sports Desk

WIRRAL factory worker John Singleton realised his Open Championship dream as he teed off yesterday in the first round at Hoylake just a few miles from his own home.

The 30-year-old qualifier, who lives in nearby Wallasey and drives a forklift truck at a resin factory in Birkenhead, struck his first shot just after 10.30am at Royal Liverpool.

Singleton received a late call-up from the reserve list for final qualifying earlier this month and, after borrowing some wedges from a friend, came through a play-off to secure an Open berth.

His employer AEV granted its entire workforce a day off and paid for them to attend the course to watch him play.

He received a huge cheer as he arrived on the first tee.

Occasionally stopping to greet friends, Singleton went on to par the first two holes, escaping from rough on the second.

Singleton’s best friend Alan Carson, who leaned over the barriers to shake his hand at the first tee, was enjoying the occasion.

Carson, 31, said: “I’ve known him about 18 years. We met when we were juniors playing golf and we’ve stayed friends ever since.

“I’m made up for him, but think I’m more nervous than him.

“It was unbelieveable when we saw him qualify and I phoned him straight away. I don’t think it had sunk in then.

“It’s brilliant and it being just down the road makes it even more special.”

The Englishman finished the first 18 holes at six over par.

Yesterday’s opening day of Championship action was marked by low scores across the board.

Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy blazed to the top of the leaderboard at six under par as the Star went to press.

Even a rusty Tiger Woods got in on the action, tied for ninth in a crowded top of the table on three below.