A YOUNG Gourock golfer ranked third in Scotland for his age is looking for sponsors to help him compete against European greats.

Skilled Scott Newman gets up at 6am every Saturday to make the three hour round trip to the world famous Royal Troon course to hone his game.

The youngster, a pupil at Clydeview Academy, practices 20 hours or more per week and is working on his strength and conditioning to aid his athleticism.

Up until January 1, young golfers were unable to receive any form of financial help or it would affect their amateur status.

However a recent change in rules means the 16-year-old now can receive help for costs such as travel, accommodation, meals and coaching.

Scott, who is ranked 56th of 1,401 ranked golfers across Europe says the change in rules could make a 'huge difference' to his golfing career.

He told the Tele: "Competitions cost well into the thousands as you need to take into consideration travel, accommodation and meals.

"I play all over the UK so getting the backing of local businesses would be a huge support."

The teenager also works at the KeyStore on Cowal View and has the backing of owner AJ Benning.

Scott, who is coached by senior instructor Finton Bonner, based in St Andrews, makes a five hour round trip for one hour lessons with the support of his dad Andy.

Andy told the Tele: "Scott is so committed and he travels all over the UK.

"He's a member of four different clubs as they all offer him something different.

"He's the only young golfer of his age to be on his level in Inverclyde and it really would mean a lot to have him backed by local businesses.

"It can get very expensive, but he deserves it as he puts real effort into the sport."

Scott's family had to to fork out £7,000 last year so he could fulfil his competition commitments across the UK.

They hope that sponsors will come forward to help him travel further afield and compete against the best players in Europe.

*Potential sponsors can get in touch by emailing andynewman78@hotmail.co.uk