TAYLOR Stote shot a new course record of 62 at Enmore Park Golf Club last week, writes Richard Walsh.

The 19-year-old came in nine under the par of 71 after carding seven birdies and an eagle on his round in the monthly medal.

Stote, who lives in Spaxton, has been playing golf since he was four years old and, even at that tender age, was encouraged by some of his school friends.

He said: “When I was about five I started by getting involved with all of the junior lessons at Enmore.

“I started playing for their Junior sides at six or seven and represented Somerset through the age groups.

“Then, when I was 16, I played for the Men’s first team. I have played for England at both Under-16s and Under-18s.

“Currently I am playing full-time on the amateur circuit around the UK this year and I also work part-time around that to fund myself.

“Next year, I hope to do some more amateur tournaments on the continent, in France and Italy.”

On his record-breaking round, he said: “I have had a lot of good rounds at Enmore and, up until the 14th, it was just another good round for me but then I holed out for an eagle and I suddenly thought when I was on the 15th tee that I had equalled the course record.

“I just tried to keep it going and I got two more birdies to set a new record.

“Enmore have always been so helpful and friendly and I can never complain about how they have treated me.”

Stote enjoyed his best return of the year earlier this month when he won the War Memorial Trophy at Burnham & Berrow.

The Enmore prospect added: “All being well, I hope to take part in the Portuguese Amateur Open in February.”

As a result of his record-breaking round, Taylor’s handicap has been cut to +3.