Marske's Michael Skelton will take his place in the final round of the Integral Collection Classic at Hunley Golf Club today after securing a spot in the top 50 of the Europro tournament.

Skelton, 27, shot four over par to be placed joint 47th at the end of the second round yesterday, in which he played some great shots on his home turf, where he began his golfing career at the age of ten.

Skelton, who returned to Hunley to compete in a golf tournament for the first time in two years, was followed around the course by a host of supporters, said it felt amazing to have made the final cut.

Some 156 professional golfers have been at Hunley playing in the prestigious three-day event this week, battling it out for a place in the final tournament of the Europro competition in Murcia, Spain, next month.

He said: "I am obviously made up that I have got into the final round at Hunley tomorrow, but I have mixed emotions because although I have had a great couple of days, I feel as though I could have done better.

"I played really well, but I know that if I had holed a couple of putts, I would have done even better. I made a lot of birdies and I also made an eagle.

"In saying that, I know I am ring rusty because I haven't competed for two years, so just making the cut for me is a massive achievement. I am particularly pleased because I have had amazing support on the course, so I am glad for everyone who has been following me, including my sponsors Integral Collection, and everyone at Hunley.

"I have loved every minute of coming back to Hunley to compete - it is home to me. The only problem for me has been managing everyone else's expectations because people wanted me to do so well. I have just had a great time and have been able to play without the added pressure of having to make a living. For me this has been about enjoyment, not really the result, so I couldn't have asked for more."

Hunley chief executive Elliot Hamilton said he was looking forward to the final day's play.

He said: "The tournament has gone fantastically well. It has exceeded our expectations and the crowd has been brilliant. The pros are delighted with the course and everyone involved with Hunley is absolutely thrilled that Mike has made it through to the last 50.

"We are expecting an even bigger support for him on the last day. The leaderboard is tight , so it's going to be a fantastic, exciting finish."

* The final 50 tee off from 7.30am today, and Skelton is scheduled to start at 8.45am. The winner is expected to be announced at about 5pm and spectators are welcome to go along to watch for free.