DUDSBURY'S Lee Thompson and Ashley Wood's Paul Jones finished strongly in the West Region PGA Order of Merit Players' Championship at Cumberwell Park.

In blazing sunshine, Thompson finished tied for third after shooting a second straight two under par.

That not only saw him bank £870 but also earned him a share of first place with Liam Bond (St Pierre) in the order of merit.

Jones carded the best round on the second day, firing 67 and making five of his seven birdies over the first seven holes.

However, a mistake at the short 16th saw Jones in the water and he eventually made double bogey. He finished fifth, winning £575.

Jones said: “These were my conditions in a tricky wind. I didn’t really miss a shot and putted as well as I have done for quite a while.

“I am looking forward to the PGA Club Professional Championship next week and go there in good form.”

Thompson was coached twice before the event by former European Tour regular Stuart Little, once in Bournemouth and then in Gloucestershire.

He said: “Apart from a putt from off the green for an eagle at the ninth, I didn’t hole anything, although I played nicely all day.

"I missed several good chances coming in but working with Stuart has put me back on track as I haven’t played a lot lately.”

David Dixon (-8) saw off Dan Carter to win the title by one shot.

Dorset scores (selected): 142 Michael Watson 70+72 (Wessex Golf Centre), 150 Andrew Windsor 74+76 (Knighton Heath), 154 Graham Howell 78+76 (Ferndown Forest), 154 Mark Wiggett 76+78 (Dudsbury).