Prince's Golf Club professional Franny McGuirk had the thrill of playing an Open Championship practice round with American golfing icon Tom Watson on Tuesday.

McGuirk, who booked his place at Sandwich by coming through Local Final Qualifying, said: "It was brilliant to play with Tom, not only is he a golfing legend but he's an absolute gentleman as well.

"We had a nice chat on the way round, but I didn't ask him for any tips because he was concentrating on his own game.

"If nothing else comes out of playing in the Open for me, when I look back in years to come I will be able to say it gave me the chance to play with Tom Watson."

McGuirk has been drawn in Thursday's first round with another American, Kevin Streelman, and Australian Matthew Millar.

The trio tee off at 10.48am, and will then play together again in Friday's second round at 1549pm.

McGuirk said: "It was quite windy when I played with Tom and they are saying it's probably going to be the same on Thursday, but I'm very used to playing in wind at Prince's and I'm just going to try to enjoy every shot."

Picture: Bary Goodwin