Malcolm Elrick from Bingley is to

represent England in the US Blind Open in North Carolina in October.

Elrick, who leads the blind golfers' order of merit in this country, will be accompanied by his guide, Horsforth club secretary Lesley Harrison.

The 50-year-old group communications analyst for Bradford & Bingley is not just going there for the ride. "It is a huge opportunity to represent my country and I think I have a good chance of winning it because I am playing the best golf of my life," he said.

"This is a two-day medal competition which attracts players from all over the world."

Blind golf is based on the same rules as the normal game, except the player is allowed to ground a club in hazards such as sand to get their bearings.

The guide is allowed to place the player's club behind the ball and give advice and then it is down to the golfer.

Representing England is not new to Elrick. Last year he played against Scotland in the Auld Enemies Cup - and he represented England in the World Blind Championships in Winnipeg, Canada.

It is a very satisfying sport, "said Elrick. "It allows me to have 95 per cent control over the shots. Once my guide has placed the club behind the ball we are on our own."

Elrick, though needs sponsorship if he is to make the trip to America. "I need sponsorship for flights," he said. "Anybody interested can contact Horsforth Golf Club on 0113 2586819.

Meanwhile, Elrick is practising hard for the two remaining big tournaments of the year - the English Strokeplay Championships in Stafford next week and the British Blind Masters in Cornwall next month.

Elrick has always been keen to encourage partially-sighted children to take up golf - an activity that can help confidence.

He has been involved with various initiatives locally.