Sevenoaks golfer Peter Appleyard will rub shoulders with the world elite after qualifying for the Open at Royal Birkdale next week.

The pro, from Wildernesse Golf Club, came through 36 holes of local final qualifying at the West Lancashire course to earn his place in the third major of the year.

He carded rounds of 72 and 75 to post a three-over total and earn a place in a four-way playoff.

Appleyard secured one of the two spots available but North Foreland’s Darren Parris, who also reached the play-off, missed out.

Chart Hills amateur Tom Sherreard will also play the Royal Liverpool course after success in qualifying at the Southport and Ainslie course.

The 20-year-old - who was runner-up in the British boys championship four years ago - had rounds of 72 and 69 to finish tied for first place on three under.