OXFORDSHIRE ladies’ champion Jane Binning is looking to turn professional after a successful year on the amateur circuit.

The 27-year-old Frilford Heath member has entered the Ladies European Tour qualifying school at La Manga, Spain, which starts on December 14.

Binning is among 13 English amateurs looking to progress from a 135-strong field, which also includes Woburn’s Tilly Magill (nee Holder), who competes for Oxfordshire.

“I feel I can make the grade, otherwise I wouldn’t be going for it,” said Binning, who plays off a handicap of one.

“I have had a really good year and just want to give it a go.”

Binning finished 29th out of 455 competitors in the 2009 English Women’s Golf Association (EWGA) Order of Merit.

Of her highlights, Binning said: “I finished sixth in the Liphook Scratch and played in pretty much all the major stuff.”

Binning, who lives in Frilford, has been focusing on her golf this year without the distraction of a full-time job.

She said: “If you are going to have a real crack at it, you don’t want anything else in the way.”

Stage one of qualifying at La Manga runs from December 14 to 16, with final qualifying taking place between December 17 and 21.

  • EDDIE Pepperell has decided to go for one more year as an amateur before trying for PGA Tour qualifying school at the end of 2010.

The 18-year-old Drayton Park member will look to further hone his skills as part of the England squad next year.

  • NORTH Oxford have been awarded a GolfMark accreditation, which will boost their junior section and community coaching.

Club professional Lee Jackson said: “The accreditation will mean additional free coaching becoming available within the club and in the community “It will increase our level of activity in introducing young people to golf and to coaching them to a high standard.

“GolfMark also assures parents that the club looks after the welfare of junior members in a safe environment.”