A KEEN golfer has 'holed' a national prize draw to jet out to America and watch the 35th Ryder Cup.

Raymond Bilby, 58, a member of Eccleston Park Golf Club, won the holiday for two to watch this September's showpiece in Detroit when he got a friend to join the club and was automatically entered into the draw, which consisted of more than 200 hopefuls from all over the country.

The prize features five nights' four star accommodation, scheduled flights and standard season tickets, which allow access on to the course for practice days and the opening ceremony as well as the three match days, that together makes for a dream holiday for a golf fan.

Raymond from Whiston who has a golfing handicap of plus-19, explained: "I was delighted to win this amazing prize and never thought for a million years that I'd be off to see this event. For years I've watched the play on television and I can hardly believe that I'm going to be there in person this year."

Tiger Woods

The competition, to be held at Oakland Hills Country Club in suburban Detroit, will once again see the cream of European golf go head-to-head with America's finest, featuring the likes of Sergio Garcia and Darren Clarke against Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods.

Raymond added: "I couldn't believe it when I got the phone call to let me know I'd won. I was convinced it was a practical joke. I've never even been to see a professional tournament live and obviously I'm particularly looking forward to seeing Tiger Woods. Maybe he can give me a few tips."

Raymond and his wife were also awarded tickets for the Celebration Dinner and $500 spending money for their trip and were presented with their prize at the Eccleston Park Golf Club.

Daniel Sheratte, General Manager of Eccleston Park Golf Club, said: "We're really pleased with the success of the Ryder Cup campaign which has caught the imagination of our members at Crown golf clubs around the country. I'm delighted that the eventual winner of this national competition is one of our members and I'd like to congratulate Raymond who I'm sure will have a fantastic time in the States."