STAR Hereford golfer David Park is continuing his unique role as an ambassador for the Celtic Manor Resort Wales Open.

Welsh-qualified Park, currently in the top 40 of the Volvo Order of Merit, will put the 2003 Wales Open under the spotlight every time he competes over the next three months by using event-branded clothing and equipment.

He said: "The Wales Open is one of the best run events of the year everything's done well, from the fabulous hotel and great facilities to the excellent hospitality and comfortable players' lounge.

"This year's event is certain to be well attended with its premier position in the International Tour Schedule, a week after the Volvo PGA Championship."

A £400,000 increase in prize money and a prime date on the European Tour should also help to attract the big names.

Last year's Wales Open was won by Scotland's Paul Lawrie from a field including European Ryder Cup heroes Lee Westwood, Darren Clarke, Wales's Phillip Price and winner of the tournament in 2001, Paul McGinley.

Wiltshireman Andy Stanton, the tournament chairman who hails from Devizes, said: "David had a good season in 2002, and we will continue to support him in 2003 as his profile and that of the Wales Open continues to grow."

The 28-year-old made a dream start to his European Tour career in 1999, narrowly missing out on the Moroccan Open in a sudden death play off, and going on to win the Compaq European Grand Prix just a week later.

Park, a member of the 1997 Walker Cup team, has made a sound start to the new season after just retaining his card last year.