STOKE by Nayland is to stage a European Seniors Tour event this year after all.A new event, sponsored by Weston Homes, will make its bow between September 12 and 14 over the Gainsborough course following a three year agreement between the PGA and the sponsors.

Tony Garnett

STOKE by Nayland is to stage a European Seniors Tour event this year after all.

A new event, sponsored by Weston Homes, will make its bow between September 12 and 14 over the Gainsborough course following a three year agreement between the PGA and the sponsors.

Sam Torrance and Carl Mason, winners of the PGA Seniors Championship at Stoke by Nayland in 2006 and 2007, are almost certain to be back. The pair have laid claim between them to the past five seniors' order of merit titles.

The PGA Seniors event will be at Slaley Hall next year, but household names from the not to distant past will again be playing at Stoke by Nayland at least until 2010.

The 7,000 yard course will provide a fitting stage for the 72-strong field that is almost sure to include Constantino Rocca and perhaps former Ryder Cup captain Ian Woosnam who turns 50 in March.

The first prize will be £26,250 and there will be additional opportunities for club professionals who finish among the leading places in the PGA Senior Club Professional Championship in May.

Sandy Jones, chief executive of the PGA, welcomed the announcement and the support of Weston Homes. He said: “We're thrilled to be able to host a second event on the European Seniors Tour and also to welcome on board Weston Homes for what he hopes proves to be a long, happy and successful partnership.

“We are also pleased to be returning to Stoke by Nayland which so successfully hosted the PGA Seniors Championship and proved very popular with the players.”

Susanna Rendall, managing director of Stoke by Nayland Hotel, Golf Club and Spa said: “We are delighted to host this prestigious event and are particularly pleased to have on board a major sponsor local to this area.

“Having staged two PGA Seniors Championships for the past two years, as well as several PGA Europro Tour events, we feel we have both the experience and enhanced facilities to do justice to such a major European tournament.

“In addition a £4 million expansion and refurbishment programme will be completed in the spring and the new Golfers' Bar and Gallery lounge. With 180 degree panoramic views over stunning Constable Country, I am sure will greatly enhance the players' enjoyment of Stoke by Nayland.”

Robert Weston, chairman of the sponsoring company, said: “It is an absolute thrill to be involved in the launch of a new golfing event which is a milestone for both the PGA and the European Seniors' Tour.”

Andy Stubbs, managing director of the European Seniors Tour, said: “We can be sure, judging from our previous experiences, that the test of golf provided will guarantee another exciting tournament and produce a worthy winner.”