BRITISH MASTERS host Lee Westwood is looking forward to enjoying the rest of the tournament at Close House after a satisfying first day when big time golf returned to the North-East.

Former world No 1 Westwood, who chose the Northumberland venue where he is attached to hold the event this year, was delighted by the response of the public after seeing a crowd of approaching 20,000 watch the opening round.

He is also in contention for a push to the top of the leaderboard himself after posting a positive four-under 66 around the Colt Course named after him, where he was backed by huge galleries in sunshine on Thursday afternoon.

Westwood, three off the lead, said: “They have been brilliant. It's been well supported. I think 18,500 today. Just impressive, phenomenal, the way the locals and the people from the area, all over the country, really, are supporting the event. It's great to see.

“It was nice to get out there and get my spikes on and play golf. I've had a lot on, a lot of media stuff obviously and a few functions and presentations and things like that, which I don't mind doing.

“I think that's all part of being the host. But the end of the day, I would like to play well this week, and it was nice to get my spikes on and try to make a few birdies.

“I was excited and slightly relieved to see so many people and so many people having a good time, everyone enjoying the golf course and enjoying the tournament.”

There was heavy overnight rain before the start and there was light drizzle for the first tee shot at 7.30am, which developed into sunshine and warm temperatures throughout the day.

Westwood said: “Obviously there was a lot of rain overnight. Seems a bit wetter than the practice rounds. Greens in Britain this time of year, they get chewed up in the afternoon but you're still able to hole putts.

“Obviously it was a really good scoring day with the sun being out and not much wind. I thought the course has held up pretty well, so seven-under is leading.”

Such were the crowds, Westwood – who admitted he would love to host the British Masters again – revealed there had to be a late approach to a nearby farmer to accommodate the huge numbers turning up to watch.

“They had to rent a field from the local farmer. He had to move his cattle,” said Westwood. “Thankfully I'm not in charge of that.

“I got stuck in the traffic coming in here, so I knew there were a lot here. You're never quite sure, are you, how many will turn up. You sell all the tickets but are they going to come? They turned out in the thousands. Yeah, 18, 450 through the gate or something like that today.”