SALISBURY golfer Andy Beal won his first Order of Merit event in eight years when he claimed the Wood-BMW Classic at Dudsbury last week.

His victory by two shots proved a popular one and was his first since returning to the sport after having his left eye removed 18 months ago because of a tumour.

The 37-year-old led by two shots on five under-par after rounds of 69 and 68, but dropped three shots on the12th and 13th holes to fall one behind playing partner Barry Austin.

But he birdied the 14th and eagled the 17th to finish seven under-par on 207 leaving Austin to share second place with Mark Plummer.

Beal, who picked up £1,300 for his victory, said: "I am absolutely delighted.

"I won a couple of winter medals with the Wiltshire PGA, but this is the first proper win since the operation."

Austin was full of praise for his rival.

"Andy did exceptionally well and that eagle did it for him as he finished three-under for the last five holes."